Fatty liver disease occurs when fat molecules known as triglycerides accumulate in liver cells, causing fatigue, a general feeling of malaise and abdominal discomfort. Although there a number of factors that might contribute to the development of fatty liver disease, drinking too much alcohol is one of the main causes. There are no proven treatments for fatty liver disease, but cholesterol-lowering medicines and the diabetes drug metformin are sometimes used. Vitamins C and E might also play a role in fatty liver treatment, although evidence to prove they are effective is limited. Talk to your doctor before taking any new vitamin supplements.
Properties
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays an important role in numerous physiologic processes, including collagen production and protein synthesis. It also aids wound healing and supports the immune system. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage by molecules known as free-radicals. Vitamin E also has antioxidant properties and plays a role in metabolism and immune function and might also help prevent a number of medical conditions, including cancer and eye diseases.
Research Findings
The results of a study published in "Nutrition Journal" in October 2003 show that vitamin C inhibits the development of fatty liver. However, the study was carried out in mice, not humans. Findings from a randomized clinical trial in patients with fatty liver disease, published in the "Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology" in September 2005, show that taking vitamin C alongside vitamin E daily for six months was as effective as ursodeoxycholic acid, a prescription drug sometimes used to treat fatty liver disease. The authors conclude that since effective therapeutic options are lacking, patients with fatty liver disease should be encouraged to take vitamin E and C supplements.
Sources and Administration
Vitamins C and E are found in a variety of foods. Citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, papaya and broccoli are sources of vitamin C, while vitamin E is found in wheat germ oil, mango, peanuts and almonds. Both vitamins are also available as dietary supplements in capsules and tablets. Guidance regarding a suitable dose to help treat fatty liver disease is lacking, but 600 IU of vitamin E and 500 mg of vitamin C, daily for six months, has been used in a clinical trial. Ask your doctor for advice.
Safety Considerations
Keep in mind that vitamin supplements can cause side effects. Vitamin C may cause stomach upset and diarrhea, while high doses of vitamin E may hinder your blood's ability to clot. Avoid using vitamin E supplements alongside anti-coagulants or cholesterol-lowering drugs, and don't take either of these vitamins if you are undergoing chemotherapy because they may make your treatment less effective.
References
- Bupa: Fatty Liver Disease
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Vitamin C
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin E
- "Nutrition Journal"; Vitamin C and Vitamin E in Prevention of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Choline Deficient Diet Fed Rats; C.P. Oliveira, et al.; October 2003
- "Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology"; Management of Fatty Liver Disease With Vitamin E and C Compared to Ursodeoxycholic Acid Treatment; G. Ersoz, et al.; September 2005
Member Comments