Feasibility, Advantages and Future Perspectives of Milpa Diet for MASLD in Mesoamerican Population

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease, linked closely to metabolic syndrome and rising obesity rates. Affecting up to 37% of the global adult population, MASLD prevalence is exceptionally high among individuals of Hispanic descent, with genetic factors such as the PNPLA3 gene mutation playing a significant role. This review focuses on the traditional Mesoamerican "milpa" diet, which includes unprocessed local crops like maize, beans, pumpkins, chili, and tomatoes, and may offer a strategy to combat MASLD. Current treatment recommendations emphasize weight loss, reduced intake of saturated fats, processed meats, and added sugars, and increased physical activity. The milpa diet, rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, aligns with these recommendations and could potentially mitigate MASLD by preventing liver fat accumulation and fibrosis. Additionally, research suggests that coffee consumption may reduce MASLD progression, while alcohol avoidance is crucial. The study concludes that adopting the milpa diet could be a culturally relevant, nutritious, and sustainable dietary approach to preventing and treating MASLD, promoting better liver health and reducing the risk of associated diseases.