Scientists from Oregon State University found that omega-3 fatty acids can protect the liver from a dangerous disease called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Research results published EMBO in Molecular Medicine.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is a chronic liver disease that occurs with metabolic syndrome (obesity, diabetes) that can lead to cirrhosis. Metabolic syndrome occurs when fat in the liver becomes toxic to organ cells and causes inflammation.
To find out whether there is a link between omega-3 consumption and a reduced risk of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, scientists conducted an experiment on laboratory mice. It turns out that omega-3s reduce the level of beta-cellulin in the blood of rodents; This protein promotes liver fibrosis (scarring), the progression of cirrhosis and cancer.
Scientists noted that omega-3 fatty acids are not synthesized in the body. They are found in fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as some nuts, seeds and vegetable oils. Researchers hope that studying the relationship between omega-3 and beta-cellulin will reveal methods that can effectively treat metabolic syndrome and liver cancer.
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