According to the National Institutes of Health, fatty liver is the most common liver disease in the world, affecting as much as 40% of the United States population. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, often progresses to other serious diseases, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, characterized by inflammation fibrosis — which causes lung scarring and stiffness — and cirrhosis, an advanced and irreversible stage of liver fibrosis. Unhealthy eating habits contribute to obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which in turn contribute to the development of fatty liver disease — but research has shown that simple dietary interventions can help.
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In a recent study published in the journal Hepatology, scientists took a close look at a natural compound known as indole, to determine whether it could help treat or prevent fatty liver disease. They examined its effects on people, animal models and individual cells to discover how it affected liver inflammation.
In the 137 human participants with fatty liver disease, researchers found that those with a higher body mass index tended to have lower levels of indole in their blood. The study also showed that indole is able to reduce the amount of fat in liver cells, while also acting on cells in the intestine. These cells can in turn send out molecular signals that help dampen inflammation in the body.
Lead study author Chaodong Wu explained, “Based on this research, we believe healthy foods with high capacity for indole production are essential for preventing NAFLD and are beneficial for improving the health of those with it.” Wu added, “This is another example where altering the diet can help prevent or treat disease and improve the well-being of the individual.”
Wondering what foods to eat to ensure you’re getting this compound in your diet?
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Collard greens
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Mustard greens
- Turnips
- Rutabagas
- Watercress