Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have a strong scientific basis for their use in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also known as fatty liver disease. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce liver fat content, improve liver enzyme levels (such as ALT and AST), and, in some studies, improve other markers of liver inflammation and metabolic health.

The mechanism by which omega-3s benefit fatty liver disease is thought to involve improvement in hepatic lipid metabolism. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease hepatic lipogenesis (fat production in the liver) and increase fatty acid oxidation, leading to a net reduction in the accumulation of fat within liver cells. They also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which are important because chronic inflammation is a key driver of liver damage in NAFLD.

Guidelines from several professional organizations, such as the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), recognize the potential role of omega-3 supplementation as an adjunct to lifestyle modification for NAFLD, although they emphasize that omega-3s should not replace weight loss or dietary change as first-line therapy. In summary, there is robust scientific evidence supporting the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a supportive treatment for fatty liver disease, though more long-term studies are needed to confirm their impact on liver fibrosis and clinical outcomes.

More about omega-3 fatty acids
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Other ingredients used for Fatty Liver Disease

Other health conditions supported by omega-3 fatty acids

Products containing omega-3 fatty acids

Nature's Sunshine Flax Seed Oil (With Lignans)