Effect of a combination of aerobic exercise and dietary modification on liver function in overweight and obese men

Background: Obesity is not only associated with cardiovascular diseases but also a primary cause of liver dysfunction and other related diseases. This study's aim was to determine the impact of a combination of dietary modification and aerobic exercise on liver function in overweight and obese adult males.

Methods: 45 overweight or obese men were randomly divided between the control group (n = 22) and intervention group (n = 23). Subjects in the intervention group were provided with dietary modification and aerobic exercise programmes. Dietary modification is a diet which restricts calorie intake and balances nutrients. Before and after 12 weeks of intervention, participants' anthropometric characteristics and biochemical parameters relating to liver function including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) were measured.

Results: 12 weeks of aerobic exercise and dietary modification resulted in average weight loss of 10.6%, and body mass index, waist circumference and fat percentage decreased by 10.2%, 9.4% and 14.5% (P < 0.05). AST, ALT, GGT and ALP in the intervention group reduced by 20.6%, 18.1%, 37.7% and 6.1% (P < 0.05). Compared to the control group, AST, ALT, GGT and ALP in the intervention group were markedly lower (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a markedly positive relationship between the reduction rates of body weight and GGT (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: 12 weeks of aerobic exercise and dietary modification caused significant weight, waist circumference and body fat percentage reduction in overweight and obese men and their liver function was improved. The findings can provide a scientific reference for the improvement of liver function and prevention of liver diseases among overweight and obese people.

Aerobic exercise; Dietary modification; Liver function; Overweight and obesity; Weight reduction

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