Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children

Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children - a Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Multicenter Study

The aim of this study is to evaluate efficacy of fish oil (EPA/DHA) in children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

76 children or adolescents aged 6-19 with NAFLD will be included in the study. Diagnosis of NAFLD is set by increased alanine transaminase and features of liver steatosis on ultrasound. Patients will be randomized to receive either fish oil (EPA/DHA, 400-1200mg) or placebo (sunflower oil) for 6 months. All children will be advised to reduce weight (dietetic intervention + increased physical activity). Laboratory tests, liver ultrasound, anthropometric analysis will be performed at the start, after 3 months and 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 6-19
• overweight or obesity
• ALT activity over 130% of upper limit norm
• hyperechogenicity of the liver on ultrasound

Exclusion Criteria:

• HCV, HBV infection
• cholestasis
• chronic/acute liver failure
• alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency
• Wilson disease
• type 2 diabetes mellitus
• beta-oxidation defects
• alcohol consumption
• history of parenteral nutrition
• use of drugs