Neohesperidin in Citrus Shown to Reduce Liver Fat Accumulation

Research published in the journal Phytotherapy Research indicates that neohesperidin, a natural compound found in citrus fruits, has the ability to combat fat accumulation in the liver and enhance lipid metabolism throughout the body.

The study examined the effects of neohesperidin on liver cells and on mice diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition caused by a high-fat diet. The experiments demonstrated that the compound significantly reduced fat buildup in liver cells and alleviated disease symptoms in the laboratory animals.

Researchers discovered that neohesperidin binds to the protein ECHS1, a key enzyme involved in fatty acid breakdown. This binding protects ECHS1 from degradation, promotes fat oxidation, and simultaneously activates the PPARα signaling pathway, which plays an important role in regulating fat metabolism in the body.

The scientists suggest that ECHS1 could serve as a novel therapeutic target for fatty liver disease, and that neohesperidin may be the first compound capable of directly stabilizing this protein.

Dietary Fiber Supplement Shows Benefits for Liver Health

Additional research conducted by Finnish scientists found that dietary supplementation with xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS)—a type of indigestible dietary fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria—improves liver health in patients with fatty liver disease. Some studies also indicate that fatty liver disease not only affects the liver but may substantially increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

To prevent fatty liver disease, medical professionals recommend adopting a low-fat, low-calorie diet, engaging in regular physical exercise, and avoiding alcohol as well as foods high in sugars.