When it comes to liver health and inflammation, there are several supplements that may offer potential benefits. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you have existing health conditions. Here are some options:
Milk Thistle (Silymarin): Silybum marianum L. (milk thistle) is a popular herbal remedy known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Milk Thistle has been used for treating different complications such as jaundice, hepatitis, and cancers. It has also been shown that silymarin, a flavonolignan extract of the plant, demonstrates chemo-preventive effects against cancers. (1)
Turmeric (Curcumin): Turmeric contains curcumin, which has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. It may help reduce liver inflammation and support overall liver health. Pathological progression often develops from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to liver fibrosis (LF) then finally to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In 52 studies of animals, curcumin demonstrates a significant improvement in key indicators across the stages of NAFLD, liver fibrosis, and HCC. Researchers then conducted a detailed analysis of common inflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, which traverse the entire disease process. (2)
Zinc: Zinc (Zn) is an essential mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including liver health. Some studies suggest that zinc supplementation may help prevent liver damage from infections and toxins. A study shows the serum Zn and Se levels were significantly associated with serum albumin levels, and inversely associated with the stages of hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, serum Zn levels were inversely correlated with the grades of hepatic steatosis in patients with hepatitis C virus-related CLD, (3)
Licorice Root Extract: Licorice root has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. It may help protect the liver and reduce inflammation. In an animal study, isoliquiritigenin and liquorice roots aqueous extract reduced high-fat diet-induced hyperglycaemia, (4)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Consuming fatty fish or fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation associated with liver conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Omega-3s are also beneficial for overall health.
Remember that individual responses to supplements can vary, and it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
REFERENCE
1. Seyyed Amir Emadi et al, A review of therapeutic potentials of milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.) and its main constituent, silymarin, on cancer, and their related patents, Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2022 Oct;25(10):1166-1176.
2. Yubing Li et al, Protective role of curcumin in disease progression from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis, Front Pharmacol. 2024 Jan 19:15:1343193.
3. Takashi Himoto et al, Involvement of essential trace elements in the pathogenesis of hepatitis C virus‑related chronic liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, Exp Ther Med. 2023 Nov 17;27(1):19.
4. Mohammed Abdo Yahya et al, Liquorice root extract and isoliquiritigenin attenuate high-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis and damage in rats by regulating AMPK, Arch Physiol Biochem. 2022 Sep 19:1-16.
5. Hao Liu et al, Protectin D1 inhibits TLR4 signaling pathway to alleviate non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via upregulating IRAK-M, Free Radic Biol Med. 2024 Jan:210: 42-53.