Nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis (NAS): Omega-3 to improve health status
Omega 3 supplements: also a valuable aid for nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis (NAS)
The liver health of patients suffering from nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis may be improved by increasing intake of marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids. This conclusion was reached by a group of experts, led by Gail Masterton of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (Edinburgh, UK), in an article published in the journal Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. The authors of the study analyzed results obtained over the course of 4 different human research studies and showed that omega threes improve liver health and function. Not only that, these fatty acids also increase sensitivity to the action of thehormone insulin, which is essential for regulating sugar metabolism, in sufferers.
Fatty liver, a disease without symptoms
Nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis, also known as nonalcoholic fatty liver, is a disorder characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. This condition is increasingly being diagnosed in people with obesity or diabetes, but it can also occur after bowel bypass surgery or in conjunction with taking certain medications. This disorder affects between 10 and 35 percent of the world's population and has been associated with the increasing prevalence of obesity. Unfortunately, doctors have not yet identified a definitive therapy for its treatment. Generally, such fat accumulation does not give rise to any particular symptoms. However, steatosis can increase the risk of liver inflammation and thus cause liver failure. The likelihood of a nonalcoholic fatty liver degenerating into a far more serious situation affects only 5-10% of cases. However, certain conditions, such as high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance can increase this risk.
Omega-3 against fat in the liver
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of omega-3s for those suffering from a variety of conditions, including heart disease and altered cholesterol and fat levels in the blood. More recently, data have also been collected on the potential of these nutrients for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatosis. In particular, Omega-3s play an important regulatory function toward liver gene expression. Researchers have pointed out that studies in humans have confirmed findings in animals that these nutrients reduce fat accumulation in the liver, improve sensitivity to insulin action, and reduce the presence of markers of inflammation.
The mechanism of action
Although some studies have demonstrated theeffectiveness of Omega-3s in counteracting disorders associated with obesity, to date no research has elucidated the mechanisms by which these fatty acids improve the health of fatty liver sufferers. For Masterton and his staff, the most important action carried out at the liver level by these nutrients would be the regulation of gene expression. Indeed, this phenomenon would allow the liver's metabolism to shift from the production and accumulation of fats to their oxidation and consumption. According to the researchers, the effect at the level of insulin action, their anti-inflammatory activity, and their ability to reduce levels of TNF, a molecule associated with inflammation, could be other possible mechanisms contributing to the effectiveness of Omega-3s against this disorder.
