Crores of people around the world are suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This is a condition in which excess fat gets accumulated in the liver. This creates all kinds of serious health problems in the future.
Now a new research has suggested a cheap and safe solution to fight this disease. Scientists found that this cure is actually hidden in Vitamin B3. Know how and why this vitamin will be beneficial.
What was found in the research?
In a study published in Science Daily on September 12, scientists found that a gene called microRNA-93 actually triggers fatty liver disease. Vitamin B3 (niacin) can effectively suppress it. Controlling this gene can prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can help in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. This discovery has brought new hope to millions of people because Vitamin B3 is not only easily available, but it is also affordable and safe.
Why is this disease dangerous?
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease occurs when excessive fat accumulates in the liver. It is linked to obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and sedentary lifestyle. If it is not treated in time, it can turn into a serious condition like liver cirrhosis or liver failure. NAFLD is rapidly increasing across the world and is taking the form of an epidemic.
How does Vitamin B3 work?
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, helps in improving metabolism in the body. It prevents the formation of fat in the liver and can also be effective in reducing the accumulated fat. According to research, Vitamin B3 reduces the activity of microRNA-93 gene which is the main cause of fat build-up in the liver. This not only stops the progression of the disease, but also improves the health of the liver.
It is both cheap and safe
The biggest feature of Vitamin B3 is that it is easily available in the market and it does not have any significant side effects. Yes, it should be taken as per the doctor’s advice. This can be an affordable alternative to the expensive treatments and medicines that are commonly used to treat fatty liver.
If you eat some of these, then this Vitamin B-3 is also in your diet.
meat and fish
Chicken (especially breast): About 10-15 mg niacin in 100 grams.
Tuna fish: 10-20 mg in 100 grams.
Salmon: 8-12 mg in 100 grams.
Turkey: 7-12 mg in 100 grams.
Pork: 6-10 mg in 100 grams.
About 0.5-1 mg in 1 large egg.
Cereals and Whole Grains
Brown Rice: About 2-3 mg in 1 cup cooked rice.
Whole wheat products: 2-5 mg per serving in bread or pasta.
Fortified cereals (such as cornflakes): 5-7 mg in 1 serving.
pulses and seeds
Peanuts: 3-4 mg in 1 ounce (28 grams).
Sunflower seeds: 2-3 mg in 1 ounce.
Lentils (such as lentils): 2-3 mg in 1 cup cooked lentils.
vegetables
Mushroom: 3-5 mg in 1 cup.
Green peas: 2-3 mg in 1 cup.
Potatoes: 2-3 mg in 1 medium potato.
Fruits and other sources
Avocado: 2-3 mg in 1 medium fruit.
Dates: 1-2 mg in 100 grams.
Tomato: 1-2 mg in 1 cup.
dairy products
Milk and curd: 0.5-1 mg in 1 cup (small quantity, but regular consumption contributes).
What do experts say?
Experts believe that this discovery can prove to be a game-changer in the treatment of fatty liver disease. However, they recommend that you consult a doctor before starting the use of Vitamin B3, because the physical condition of every person is different. Apart from this, healthy diet, regular exercise and weight control also play an important role in preventing this disease.
Let us tell you that this research is still in the initial stage and scientists are doing further studies to understand it more deeply. But this discovery has made one thing clear that simple measures like Vitamin B3 can become a big weapon in the war against fatty liver disease in future.