Definitions
NAFLD was defined as hepatic steatosis proven by imaging or histology, lack of secondary causes of hepatic fat accumulation, and no significant alcohol consumption (weekly alcohol intake ≤210 g in men and ≤140 g in women) [21]. Hypertension was defined by blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg, use of anti-hypertensive medication, or a self-reported history of hypertension. Diabetes was defined by fasting glucose ≥7.0 mmol/L, 2-h glucose ≥11.1 mmol/L during an oral glucose tolerance test, use of anti-diabetic medication, or a self-reported history of diabetes. Elevated intestinal permeability was defined by elevated serum D-lactate (≥15 U/L). HOMA-IR value was calculated as previously described [22]. Metabolic therapy included lipid-lowering medicines (such as simvastatin and metformin) and lifestyle modifications (healthy eating and regular exercise).