Ninety Million People Face Increased Risk of Premature Death Due to Deficiency in This Nutrient
Written by Susan Parker | Updated on May 28, 2025
Reviewed by Susan Parker
11 sources cited
Overview
Currently, a significant number of individuals in the United States are at risk of developing severe liver conditions due to their dietary patterns and weight gain. Researchers have highlighted a specific nutrient that could potentially provide defense against this threat.
The human liver struggles to cope with the contemporary American diet, which is rich in processed foods containing detrimental fats and sugars. This challenge is exacerbated when combined with heightened inflammation resulting from excessive weight gain.
The consumption of these unhealthy foods and the onset of obesity significantly increase the likelihood of developing fatty liver disease, which is characterized by inflammation and damage to liver cells. Fortunately, researchers at the University of Oregon have pinpointed a crucial nutrient that may deter the progression of this condition towards life-threatening complications.
Fat Accumulation in the Liver
The precise mechanism through which weight gain and the consumption of processed foods contribute to fatty liver disease is not entirely clear. Studies have indicated that the excessive intake of unhealthy foods can disrupt proteins in liver cells, leading to the accumulation of fat in the liver.
Research, including an international study conducted at the University of Texas Medical Center, suggests that a genetic predisposition in combination with weight gain can exacerbate fat buildup in the liver, potentially resulting in severe conditions such as liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Fatty liver disease, also known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is anticipated to become the leading cause of liver transplants in the near future. While weight loss can reverse the condition, effective treatment options have been limited until now.
Identification of a Beneficial Nutrient by Medical Professionals
Researchers at Oregon State University have unveiled that DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a fatty acid present in fish oil, can safeguard the liver from damage and impede the progression of NASH. Despite the absence of FDA-approved treatments for NASH, the supplementation of DHA shows promise in slowing down the advancement of the disease.
Dr. Donald Jump, a key researcher, highlights the potential significance of DHA supplementation in managing NASH and reducing associated healthcare expenses. While DHA may not completely reverse NASH, it can effectively decelerate its progression. Ensuring sufficient levels of omega-3 fats, primarily obtained from fish, is crucial for liver health and overall wellness.
Omega-3 fats play a critical role in liver functionality, assisting in the synthesis of fatty acids, processing triglycerides, and reducing inflammation. Integrating fish and fish oil supplements into one's diet, along with weight loss and physical activity, can help combat fatty liver disease and promote liver well-being.
To combat the rising prevalence of fatty liver disease and protect liver health, prioritize the consumption of omega-3-rich foods and supplements containing DHA. Safeguarding your liver is essential for preserving overall health and wellness.
