The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Prevention and Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Review of Published Papers

10 to 35% of the adult population all round the world is infected with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). So far, no cure is recommended for this disease. Omega-3 fatty acids have beneficial effects in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease; the resort is recently used for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of this study was to review the studies about the role of omega-3 fatty acids on the prevention and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

First, PubMed and ISI databases were searched for the papers in their text there were the words NAFLD, NASH, nonalcoholic fatty liver, steatosis, DHA, EPA, fish oil and omega 3. Then, the papers were divided into tree groups: animal studies, cross-sectional studies, and case-control studies and clinical trials. Totally, 21 articles were evaluated.

The results of cross-sectional and case-control studies were not similar, but more robust studies showed that inadequate intakes of dietary sources of omega-3 was associated with fatty liver disease. Most interventions have been conducted in animal and human studies that have been reported positive effects of omega-3 supplementation in reducing triglycerides and fatty liver in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver.

According to the available evidence, it seems that reduction of omega-3 food sources due to poor eating habits can be one of the reasons of multi-factorial fatty liver disease. In addition, the use of omega-3 supplement along with modification of the diet pattern and lifestyle is beneficial for patients.