Lifestyle modification as the primary treatment of NASH.
This article reviews the rationale and data behind recommending lifestyle changes to prevent and reverse NASH, focusing specifically on changes that lead to increased physical activity in sedentary patients, changes in dietary habits, and decreased calorie consumption to achieve gradual and sustained weight loss in those who are overweight or obese. In a culture that values avoiding even minimal exertion these are not easy changes to make. Ultimately, the success of care providers in helping patients to recognize and overcome these barriers depends on a patient's motivation, but clinicians can be more persuasive and able to bolster this motivation when armed with a conviction based on data that establish this to be the best course of action for patients with NASH.
Neuschwander-Tetri
Brent A
BA
Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 3635 Vista Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. tetriba@slu.edu
D018752:Diet, Fat-Restricted; D015444:Exercise; D005234:Fatty Liver / Q000628:therapy*; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009042:Motivation; D010349:Patient Compliance; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss