Energy balance
Both intermittent calorie restriction (5:2 diet) and low-carb high-fat (LCHF) diets significantly reduce hepatic steatosis in NAFLD patients compared to standard of care, with no significant difference in liver fat reduction between the two specific diets.
To reduce fatty liver, you need to lose weight. You can do this by restricting calories on 2 days a week (5:2 diet) or by eating low-carb/high-fat (LCHF). Both methods work equally well for reducing liver fat if you maintain a calorie deficit. The 5:2 diet may be easier to stick with and has better effects on cholesterol, while LCHF might raise LDL slightly. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
The LCHF and 5:2 diets were both superior to SoC treatment in reducing steatosis... There was no difference between 5:2 and LCHF (p = 0.41 for steatosis...)
Why this rating
Randomized controlled trial with adequate sample size and validated outcome measures (MRS), though open-label design is a limitation.
Source
Treatment of NAFLD with intermittent calorie restriction or low-carb high-fat diet – a randomised controlled trial
Magnus Holmer et al. · JHEP Reports · 2021
DOI 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100256
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