A116: Resistance Training vs. Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Cognitive Function in NAFLD Patients

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease globally, with a prevalence of nearly 30%. It is closely related to cognitive dysfunction, which significantly impacts quality of life. Recent studies suggest that exercise therapy (aerobic/resistance training) can improve metabolic abnormalities in NAFLD, yet its effects on cognitive function remain controversial. Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) may have advantages over Resistance Training (RT) in modulating lipid metabolism, though RT might be more feasible for specific groups. This study compares the effects of 6 weeks of MICT and RT on cognitive functions (verbal memory, visuospatial ability, executive function, and attention) in NAFLD patients. A single-center, single-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with 36 NAFLD patients, randomly assigned to either the MICT group (N=18) or the RT group (N=18). Cognitive function was assessed using MOCA, RAVLT, ROCF, TMT, and DSST. The study lasted 6 weeks with three exercise sessions per week. Data analysis was performed using linear mixed-effects models. (1) MOCA: No significant effects for time (P > 0.05) or group (p > 0.05). RAVLT: Both groups significantly improved short-term recall (MICT: 2.17 points, P=0.003, COHEN’s D=0.76; RT: 2.39 Points, p = 0.001, C d = 0.84). (3) ROCF: Short-term delayed recall: MICT showed greater improvement (9.778 Points, p < 0.001, d = 1.32), while RT improved by 5.389 POINTS (p = 0.014, d = 0.73). Long-term delayed recall: only MICT significantly improved (11.444 POINTS, p = 0.008, d = 1.01). (4) TMT-A: no significant improvement in either group (MICT: 3.214 seconds, p = 0.142, d = 0.22; RT: 3.618 seconds, p = 0.123, d = 0.19); TMT-B: RT showed significant improvement (δ = 31.31 seconds, p = 0.006, d = 1.24). (5) DSST: RT showed significant improvement (δ = 11.22 points, p = 0.014, d = 0.91). Both exercise interventions showed dimension-specific benefits in NAFLD patients. RT was most effective for executive function and attention, while MICT improved visuospatial memory. Both interventions similarly improved verbal memory. Tailored exercise prescriptions are recommended based on specific cognitive deficits in NAFLD patients.