Science found a new way to cure NAFLD? How effective is it?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common liver problems worldwide and it is gradually emerging as the leading cause of serious forms of liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Currently, there is no direct cure for this liver problem, and due to its asymptomatic nature, many patients often go undetected before it evolves into something more serious.

A new, natural way to treat NAFLD

According to a study published in American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, it was found out that increased protein intake may help reduce the liver’s fat content in people with NAFLD and also the risk of developing diabetes.

There have been researches and studies that focus on the effectiveness of protein in reducing the fat proportion in the liver, but most of them are short-term basis. Studies that focus on the long-term effect of protein in lowering the fat content have been lacking.

A two-year study to investigate the effects of protein on reducing liver fat content was performed on 25 adults, 15 of whom had been diagnosed with NAFLD previously. The study involves getting the participants to eat a low-calorie diet for eight weeks to lose weight first. Afterwards, participants were asked to maintain their weight within a healthy range and to follow a moderate or a high-protein diet for two years.

After two years, blood and urine test and body scan were performed on the participants. An association between the increase in protein consumption and reduced liver fat content was found. Particular attention should be drawn to the result that more than half of the NAFLD patients no longer had a fatty liver after the study.

But are all proteins good for fatty liver?

According to a study presented at The International Liver Congress 2017, a diet high in animal protein may cause a higher risk of NAFLD, especially for people who are elderly and overweight. Instead of going for animal protein that might cause inflammation in the body, opt for plant-based protein sources such as beans, nuts, peas, and leafy vegetables, as they contain anti-inflammatory properties which are beneficial for fatty livers.

Too much fat in the liver will cause inflammation, which is the major cause of all liver problems. If this condition is not monitored or controlled, it will increase the risk of developing cirrhosis or liver cancer. Anti-inflammatory properties have a positive effect in reducing liver inflammation and bringing back liver enzyme level (ALT) to a normal level.

If you have any questions regarding how anti-inflammatory properties can help restore your liver health, please do not hesitate to contact our support team for more information about liver protection.