Hydrogen Coral Calcium Improves Fatty Liver Disease in Mice Study
- Authors
- Hung-Tsung Wu, Chin-Shiang Tsai, Ting-Hsing Chao, Horng-Yih Ou, Liang-Miin Tsai
- Journal
- Antioxidants
- Year
- 2024
- DOI
- 10.3390/antiox13060746
- Study Type
- Mouse
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- Taiwan
- Health Condition
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
- Body System
- Digestive System
TL;DR
A special type of coral calcium enriched with hydrogen was found to help reduce liver fat and inflammation in mice with a liver disease similar to one found in humans that is not caused by alcohol.
Key Finding
Hydrogen-rich coral calcium reduced liver fat and inflammation in mice with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by increasing antioxidant enzymes and altering gut bacteria to boost bile acid production.
Summary
Researchers tested a new supplement called hydrogen-rich coral calcium (HRCC) in mice with a type of liver disease called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which involves fat buildup in the liver. The supplement reduced liver fat accumulation, decreased inflammation, boosted the body's natural antioxidant defenses (substances that protect cells from damage), and changed the composition of gut bacteria in ways that increased bile acid production—a process that may help protect the liver.
Practical Takeaway
This early-stage mouse study suggests hydrogen-rich coral calcium may help with fatty liver disease through multiple mechanisms, but human studies are needed before any conclusions can be drawn about its usefulness for people. The convenience advantage over hydrogen-rich water is noted, but the actual health benefits for humans remain unknown.
Abstract (excerpt)
The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has dramatically increased in recent years, and it is highly associated with metabolic diseases, as well as the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of NAFLD are still scarce…