South Korean scientists have discovered a new method to reduce liver fat accumulation with vitamin B3.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Fatty liver disease is affecting even those who don't drink alcohol worldwide. A new study by a team of experts has found a common nutrient to be highly effective in treating fatty liver disease.

The liver is one of the most severely damaged organs due to lifestyle and dietary restrictions. The liver is a vital organ for our body. It helps detoxify the body, maintain metabolism, and enhance nutrient absorption. Therefore, any  problem with this organ can have a detrimental effect on the entire body.

Fatty liver cases are increasing worldwide

Medical reports indicate that cases of fatty liver, or increased fat in the liver, are increasing worldwide. Everyone from children to the elderly is affected. While alcohol causes the most damage to the liver, the risk of fatty liver is also seen in those who do not drink alcohol. This condition is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

In India, approximately 3-4 out of every 10 people may have NAFLD. Experts have discovered an effective way to treat it. Researchers at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea conducted a study to understand this.

MicroRNA-93 plays a key role in disease

Researchers found that a small molecule called microRNA-93 plays a key role in this disease. MicroRNAs are small molecules that control how genes function. People with fatty liver disease have significantly higher levels of microRNA-93. Experts said that vitamin B3, a common nutrient, may be beneficial for those suffering from this condition. In a report on this study published in the journal Metabolism, researchers said that increasing the amount of vitamin B3 in the diet can provide relief from this problem.

Studies were also done on rats 

The study found that microRNA-93 contributes to liver health problems, primarily by inhibiting a beneficial gene called SIRT1. When SIRT fails to function properly, fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation, scarring, and reduced liver function. To reduce fatty liver, scientists used gene editing techniques to reduce microRNA-93 levels in mice.

The results were impressive, with the mice losing fat in their livers over time, improving insulin sensitivity and improving liver health. The most exciting finding came when researchers tested 150 existing medications. They found that vitamin B3 (niacin) was the most effective at reducing microRNA-93 levels. In mice given vitamin B3 supplements, niacin restored SIRT activity and improved fat metabolism in the liver.

Experts believe that a diet rich in vitamin B-3, or supplements if needed, could be a new and cost-effective treatment option for those with fatty liver. However, more studies are needed to prove its effectiveness in treating fatty liver disease.

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