Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training and Loquat Leaf Extract Consumption on the Serum Levels of TNF-Α and Interleukin 18 in Obese Men with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Interval exercises with high intensity and consumption of plant extracts probably have beneficial effects on inflammatory indicators. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and the consumption of Loquat leaf extract on the serum levels of TNF-α and interleukin-18 in obese men with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In this semi-experimental study, forty men with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with body mass index (33.92 ± 1.82) with informed written consent were randomly selected and assigned into four groups: control, training, Extract, Extract + training (Each group of 10 people). Exercises were performed for eight weeks and three sessions per week for 60 minutes with intensity between 80-95% of the reserve heart rate. Two capsules of 250 mg of Loquat leaf extract were also prescribed daily. Paired t-test and analysis of covariance were used.

A significant decrease in the levels of TNF-α (15.3%) and interleukin 18 (14.9%) was observed in the training + extract group (P<0.05). A significant difference was observed in the levels of TNF-α (P=0.001) and interlock 18 (P=0.001) between the groups, and these changes were more significant in the Extract + training group than in the training and extract groups.

It is concluded that performing intense intermittent training along with Loquat leaf extract will be able to improve TNF-α and interleukin 18 indices related to fatty liver in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, confirmation of this hypothesis requires more research.