Is any association between alternate healthy eating index (AHEI) with lipid profile and liver enzymes? A cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose Based on evidence, there is a significant relationship between diet quality and the chronic conditions such as dyslipidemia and liver disorders. In the current study, we investigated the relationship between alternative healthy eating index (AHEI) and some biochemical measurements (lipid profile and liver enzymes). Methods In this cross-sectional study, 127 hospital employees were randomly selected (of 250 screened volunteers). AHEI was estimated based on a 168 items food frequency questionnaire. The laboratory data triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) were extracted from periodic examinations. The physical activity was also estimated with international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). Results Among 127 completed data, the mean AHEI score was 47.1. There was a direct relationship between AHEI score and HDL (P = 0.02). Among the AHEI components, the score of nuts and soybeans was directly associated with HDL level (P = 0.007). There was no association between the other AHEI components and selected biomarkers. Conclusion Nuts and soybeans consumption-one unit per day-may increase HDL levels. More studies are needed to evaluate the diet quality with the other dietary indices.