Foods such as fruits and nuts, which are rich in ellagic acid, demonstrate an ability to shield the liver from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and may even reverse existing damage caused by it. Conversely, a common supplement, soluble fiber, when taken in isolation, was observed to worsen the condition of affected patients. This information was reported on April 28th in the journal Medical Xpress.
Defining NAFLD
NAFLD holds the title of the world’s most prevalent liver ailment, impacting approximately 38% of the global population. In Australia, the condition is diagnosed in one out of every three residents. Key risk factors associated with NAFLD involve obesity, diabetes, and elevated blood pressure. Given the current absence of an effective pharmaceutical treatment for NAFLD, exploring dietary approaches for prevention becomes particularly significant.
The research was conducted using mice models. Scientists investigated how ellagic acid specifically influenced the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which represents a severe form of NAFLD. Concurrently, they assessed the impact of inulin, a soluble fiber widely utilized as a prebiotic to enhance gut microflora.
“Our findings indicate that ellagic acid—substance found in pomegranates, berries, grapes, and walnuts—offers protection against liver disease. It functions as a natural antioxidant possessing anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic qualities,” stated Associate Professor Lois Balmer.
Contrary to initial hypotheses, administering inulin without the presence of ellagic acid resulted in an undesirable rise in body weight and blood glucose levels, alongside exacerbated liver injury. The study’s authors attribute this outcome to a disruption in the balance of gut microbiota, a feature frequently observed in NASH. When combined with ellagic acid, however, the negative consequences associated with inulin were nullified.
“This study underscores a crucial point: diet truly matters—it’s not simply about what we consume, but how various nutrients interface within the body,” Professor Balmer concluded.
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