Culturally adapted hypocaloric diet improves hepatic steatosis, inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers in Egyptian MASLD patients: a single-arm interventional study
Abstract
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a growing public health challenge in Egypt, driven by westernized dietary patterns, urbanization, and physical inactivity. Despite lifestyle intervention being the first-line management, data on structured hypocaloric diets tailored to Egyptian patients remain limited, particularly regarding their effects on hepatic steatosis, inflammatory pathways, and oxidative stress biomarkers. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a culturally adapted 6-month hypocaloric diet on hepatic fat reduction, metabolic parameters, inflammatory-oxidative biomarkers, and lifestyle factors in Egyptian MASLD patients, with additional exploration of weight-independent mechanisms.
Methods: In this single-center interventional trial, 30 newly diagnosed MASLD patients received a personalized hypocaloric diet (500-1000 kcal/day deficit). Outcomes measured at baseline and post-intervention included anthropometrics, liver enzymes, metabolic profile, hepatic steatosis (CAP score), inflammatory markers (TNF-α, MDA), antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT), and lifestyle behaviors (physical activity, sleep). Advanced statistical analyses included effect size estimation, multivariate regression, mediation analysis, and subgroup comparisons (lean vs. obese MASLD).
Results: After 6 months, patients achieved significant reductions in weight (- 10.9 kg), BMI (- 3.9 kg/m2), and CAP score (- 89.5 dB/m) (all P < 0.001). Liver enzymes…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 6 participants or records.
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