Metabolic associated steatotic liver disease in Qatar: Analysis of dietary patterns and nutrient intake

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common and increasingly prevalent condition in the Middle East, but its determinants in the region are underexplored. Diet and lifestyle are known to significantly influence MASLD progression.

AIM

To assess energy and nutrient intake among MASLD patients living in Qatar and evaluate their dietary patterns.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, 94 Arab patients with MASLD, aged ≥ 18 years, living in Qatar were studied. MASLD was diagnosed using ultrasonography, fibro scan, or elastography. Sociodemographic information was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake was assessed through three 24-hour recalls and a qualitative food frequency questionnaire. Energy, macro-, and micronutrient intake were analyzed using Elizabeth Stewart Hands and Associates Food Processor^® Nutrition Analysis software. Statistical analyses, including factor loadings were performed using STATA 18.

RESULTS

Compared to recommended dietary allowance, MASLD patients had high intakes of fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. They also showed reduced intakes of vitamin K in men, and vitamins E and A (retinol), calcium and magnesium in both genders, while selenium and sodium intakes were higher than recommendations. Three dietary patterns were identified: The ‘Traditional Qatari food’ pattern, the ‘Prudent’ pattern, and the ‘Fast-food’ pattern. However, no significant associations were found between these dietary patterns and body mass index or low-density lipoprotein, using adjusted regression models.

CONCLUSION

Findings warrant replication in longitudinal studies and call for dietary interventions to reduce energy density and enhance overall diet quality, including micronutrient intake, for MASLD prevention and management in the region.

Keywords: Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease; Non-alcoholic fatty liver; Nutrient intakes; Dietary patterns; Body mass index; Low-density lipoprotein

Core Tip: This study investigates the dietary intake and patterns of Arab patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in Qatar, where MASLD is prevalent but under-researched. Results reveal excessive intake of fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, alongside inadequate intake of several micronutrients, including vitamins A, E, K, calcium, and magnesium. Three distinct dietary patterns were identified, ‘Traditional’, ‘Prudent’ and ‘Fast-food’ patterns, though none were significantly associated with any health outcome. These findings highlight the need for culturally tailored dietary interventions that improve nutrient quality and reduce energy-dense food consumption, to support MASLD prevention and management in the region.