Non-alkolik yağlı karaciğer hastalığında kafein alımı ve karaciğer biyobelirteçleri arasındaki ilişki

Purpose: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of elevated liver enzymes in developed countries. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of caffeine intake on some parameters of liver metabolism in individuals with NAFLD. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 female and 20 male subjects between the ages of 19 to 64, who were diagnosed with NAFLD, were included in the study. To determine caffeine intake, a specially developed caffeine-food frequency questionnaire was administered by a trained dietitian. Individuals were categorized into 3 groups according to their caffeine intake; Group 1: ≤150 mg/day, Group 2: 150-250 mg/day, and Group 3: ≥250 mg/day. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters were recorded. Protein quantities in serum samples were determined by ELISA method. Results: The body fat composition of group 1 was higher than group 2. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels of group 3 were higher than group 1 and group 2, respectively. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level of group 3 was lower than group 1 and group 2. There was a positive correlation between total caffeine intake and ALT level. There was no significant difference between the caffeine intake groups in terms of serum protein levels. In addition, there was not found significant correlation between serum protein levels and total caffeine intake. Conclusion: Caffeine intake of ≥250 mg/day may increase ALT and AST levels and decrease HDL-C level in individuals with NAFLD.