High intensity interval training combats fatty liver disease, study shows

New research conducted by Flinders University and the University of Queensland has discovered that many individuals with fatty liver disease are unaware of the positive effects high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can have on heart function and liver health.

Fatty liver disease affects approximately 25% of the global population and can lead to severe liver damage. Since there are no approved pharmaceutical therapies for this condition, lifestyle modifications such as exercise and diet are recommended for its management, according to Dr. Shelley Keating from UQ’s School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences.

However, the study revealed that only 20% of people with fatty liver disease are meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines. The research highlighted a lack of awareness and experience with HIIT among participants, who also expressed mixed feelings about their ability to undertake such training. Medical and social barriers, including musculoskeletal conditions and other appointments for conditions like Type 2 diabetes, hindered their engagement in or continuation of HIIT.

On a positive note, participants stated that having the support of an exercise specialist was beneficial, and they generally enjoyed HIIT and its comprehensive benefits.

The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology, were based on an exercise intervention that included three HIIT sessions per week over a 12-week period. These sessions were supervised by a qualified exercise professional and consisted of a 5-minute warm-up at 60% of maximal heart rate (HRmax), followed by 4 × 4 minute intervals at 85%–95% HRmax with 3-minute recovery periods at 60% HRmax in between, and a 5-minute cool-down to conclude each session. Participants rated the high-intensity intervals as hard to very hard on a subjective exertion scale.

Dr. Matthew Wallen from Flinders University, a collaborator on the research, mentioned that previous joint studies have demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of HIIT as an exercise option for individuals with fatty liver disease. However, people with this condition often experience fatigue, sleep issues, musculoskeletal concerns, and reduced capacity for daily activities, which can affect their ability to engage in regular physical activity.

Dr. Wallen emphasized the importance of seeking advice and support from appropriately qualified exercise professionals or healthcare providers before initiating a HIIT program for individuals with fatty liver disease, despite the promising findings. The results of this study will contribute to the development of future clinical programs aimed at increasing the uptake of HIIT among individuals with steatohepatitis.