A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research showed that neohesperidin, a compound found in citrus fruits, can fight fat accumulation in the liver and improve fat metabolism in the body in general.
Scientists studied the effects of neohesperidin on liver cells and mice with metabolic fatty liver disease (MASLD), a condition resulting from a high-fat diet. Experiments showed that the compound significantly reduced fat accumulation in liver cells and alleviated symptoms of the disease in laboratory animals.
The researchers discovered that the compound binds to the ECHS1 protein, a key enzyme involved in the breakdown of fatty acids. This binding protects the protein from degradation, promotes fat burning, and simultaneously activates the PPARα signaling pathway, which plays an important role in regulating fat metabolism in the body.
Researchers believe that the ECHS1 protein may represent a new therapeutic target for fatty liver disease, and that neohesperidin may be the first compound capable of directly stabilizing this protein.
A study conducted by scientists from Finland also showed that taking the dietary supplement "Xyl-oligosaccharides (XOS) (a special type of dietary fiber that is not digested in the body, but feeds the beneficial bacteria in the intestines) improves liver health in patients with fatty liver disease. Some studies have shown that fatty liver disease does not only affect the liver, but may significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
To prevent fatty liver disease, doctors recommend following a healthy diet low in fat and calories, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and sugary foods.
