Exercising in the COVID-19 era: implications in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

Abstract

COVID-19 is a major public health pandemic. Risk factors for severe infection and poorer outcomes include cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Lifestyle interventions, including diet and physical activity modifications, are the current recommended treatment for NAFLD. In this communication, the authors discuss the crossover link between NAFLD and severe COVID-19 infection and the impact of essential public health measures to suppress the spread of COVID-19 on exercise and physical activity participation in patients with NAFLD. The future of exercise prescription and the potential use of digital technology in addressing NAFLD healthcare needs in the COVID-19 era are also explored.