Liver health is crucial for our overall well-being, but many people overlook it until serious problems arise. Did you know that collagen, a protein commonly known for its benefits to skin and joints, can also support liver health? Let’s explore how collagen can help prevent and treat liver diseases like fatty liver and cirrhosis.

Is Collagen Good for Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver disease, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is becoming increasingly common. It can lead to serious complications like liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Recent studies have shown that glycine, an amino acid found in collagen, has protective effects on the liver:

• Lower Glycine Levels in NAFLD: Patients with NAFLD often have lower levels of circulating glycine. This deficiency is linked to higher risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
• Clinical Study Findings: A 2020 study by the Michigan Medicine Frankel Cardiovascular Centre found that glycine, alone or combined with leucine, can help prevent and treat fatty liver disease and associated obesity.

Lead researcher Oren Rom, Ph.D., R.D., highlighted that lower glycine levels are consistently found in NAFLD patients and related comorbidities. The study suggests that a daily dose of 27mg/kg of glycine (about 2g per day) can offer therapeutic effects. This amount is found in a single 10g dose of CollagenX hydrolyzed collagen.

Is Collagen Good for Liver Cirrhosis?

Liver cirrhosis is a severe condition where the liver becomes scarred and loses its function. While advanced cirrhosis is challenging to reverse, early intervention can help manage the disease.

• Glycine's Role: Glycine, found abundantly in hydrolysed collagen, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can support liver health.
• Study Insights: The same 2020 study also found that a combination of glycine and leucine (also found in hydrolysed collagen) was more effective than glycine alone in reversing liver damage and inflammation.

Adding hydrolysed collagen to your diet can help maintain healthy glycine and leucine levels, supporting liver function and potentially slowing the progression of cirrhosis.

What Can Help Prevent Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?

Preventing NAFLD involves a holistic approach that includes maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise. Here’s how collagen fits into this picture:

• Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise reduces the risk of NAFLD. Glycine and Leucine, found in hydrolysed collagen, supports metabolic health and can aid in weight management.
• Balanced Diet: Incorporate foods rich in glycine, such as meats, dairy, legumes, spinach, and seafood. However, these sources might not provide enough glycine for optimal health.
• Regular Exercise: Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improves liver function. Combining exercise with a collagen supplement can enhance these benefits.
• Collagen Supplementation: Hydrolyzed collagen provides an easy way to ensure adequate glycine and Leucine intake, supporting liver health and overall metabolism.

Conclusion

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing epidemic, with no approved pharmacological treatments available. Hydrolysed Collagen, particularly the glycine it contains, offers a promising natural approach to support liver health. By maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and incorporating collagen supplements, you can help protect your liver.

Take control of your liver health today. Consider adding hydrolyzed collagen to your daily routine and make lifestyle changes that support a healthy liver. Your future self will thank you!