RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06359444

Effect of High Intensity Exercise Rehabilitation on Liver Function and Insulin Sensitivity in Patients With MASLD

Effect of High Intensity Exercise Rehabilitation on Hepatic Fatty Acids (Liver Function), Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With MASLD

Sponsor

University Ghent

Enrollment

92 participants

Start Date

Apr 26, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Exercise Therapy

Summary

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, and is associated with obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Physical activity and lifestyle interventions are among the most recommended treatments for individuals with MASLD. In this RCT, we will evaluate the effect of combined exercise training "strength and aerobic training" versus "strength and high intensity training (HIIT)". The main outcome parameter is the severity of liver steatosis. Patients will be recruited at the fatty liver clinic of the UZ Gent.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 75 Years

Inclusion Criteria3

Diagnosed with MASLD by ultrasound, CAP and/or biopsy
Age between 18 and 75 years old
No significant liver fibrosis (Fibroscan < 7.5 kPa; if it is between >7.5 and <10, there must be absence of liver fibrosis in the biopsy)

Exclusion Criteria5

Presence of other liver diseases that may contribute to the clinical presentation in the patient
Severe cardiovascular, orthopedic, physical or other illnesses that make it impossible to participate in the study's exercise rehabilitation program or where safety cannot be guaranteed
Pregnancy
Pharmacological treatment that directly affects MASLD (e.g. GLP-1 analogues)
A change in medication in the last three months before the study that affects metabolic disease stability

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Interventions

OTHERCombined aerobic + strength training

Participants will follow a combination of endurance and strength training for 14 weeks. There will be three sessions every week: two at Ghent university department of rehabilitation and one at home. Each session will last approximately one hour.

OTHERCombined strength + HIIT training

6 weeks of endurance training and strength training, 8 weeks of strength training and HIIT. Participants will follow the same combination of endurance and strength training for the first six weeks, to build up to a baseline level of physical fitness. They will then switch to eight weeks of a combination of strength training and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). There will be three sessions every week: two at Ghent university department of rehabilitation and one at home. Each session will last approximately one hour.