Benefits of Pilates training and Nano-Curcumin supplementation for overweight and obese females with NAFLD

Abstract Purpose Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a significant cause of chronic liver disease and a paramount health concern due to its prevalence. According to the available evidence, due to the ineffectiveness of conventional drug therapies, lifestyle changes focusing on nutrition and physical activity have had the most excellent effect on treating this disease. This study investigated the impact of Pilates training and Nano-curcumin in overweight and obese women with NAFLD. Method In this semi-experimental, placebo-based study, 12 obese and overweight females with NAFLD (age: 44.33 ± 8.55 years, BMI: 31.76 ± 3.90 kg/m2, WHR > 0.85) participated in Pilates training, three sessions per week for eight weeks with Nano Curcumin (80 mg/day) or placebo supplementation. Anthropometric indices, blood markers and hepatic steatosis were assessed 48 hours before and after 8 weeks of intervention. All data were analyzed in IBM SPSS version 26 (P < 0.05). Results WHR (P = 0.002) and LDL/HDL ratio (P = 0.010) improved in individuals consuming Nano curcumin in Pilates protocol. However, Pilates training independent of supplementation improved hepatic steatosis, lowered GGT, and increased HDL levels (P < 0.05). Conclusion Pilates training may be helpful for the management of NAFLD, and it probably has more effect on abdominal obesity when combined with Nano curcumin supplementation.