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Most of us are not strangers to the occasional heartburn and stomach issues. About 18% - 27% of Americans have GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease). They occur when certain valves in the digestive tract fail to close properly, causing the food to make its way back into the esophagus. Antacids have become a staple to tackle this problem. However, overuse of antacids can cause constipation or have laxative effects. A quest for alternatives has led to the emergence of using DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) to treat acid reflex. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate alternate therapies, knowing in detail about DGLs would help make an informed decision. This article discusses how DGL supplements work, as well as its safety and side effects.


Did You Know?

Many underlying health conditions like anxiety and obesity can cause acid reflux or worsen it. So, how do we safeguard ourselves from these conditions? Turns out, you can do that by understanding your genetic makeup. Some genes tend to increase your risk for many health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, etc. Understanding your genetic risk can help you take proactive measures to reduce the risk or even prevent it. Learn more.


What Is Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)?

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a herb native to Asia, Southern Europe, and North Africa. 

Licorice roots contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that is 30-50 times sweeter than sugar

For this reason, licorice is used as an alternative to sugar in many foods, confectioneries, and beverages. 

Licorice is an herbal medication that may treat cough, sore throat, and asthma.

Consuming more than recommended quantities of licorice containing glycyrrhizin acid may lead to high sodium and low potassium levels. 

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), as the name suggests, is licorice sans glycyrrhizin.

Most of the glycyrrhizin is removed during processing, making licorice a safer option for use. 

DGL is available as a supplement and may help treat acid reflux.  

How Does A DGL Supplement Work?

DGL supplements increase mucus production in the digestive tract and the esophagus.

When the mucus coats the wall of the esophagus, it gets protection against acid damage.

For this reason, these supplements are used to treat conditions like ulcers, esophageal reflux, and Barrett's esophagus.

Do DGL Supplements Help Treat Acid Reflux?

Over-the-counter and prescription GERD medications work by reducing the amount of stomach acid produced. 

While this is effective, such medications may affect the digestive process over time, and when discontinued, there is a chance the symptoms may resurface.

DGL supplements strengthen the mucosa to handle regurgitation. 

Mucosa is the soft tissue that lines the esophagus, stomach, intestine, and nasal cavity. 

The primary role of the mucosa is to produce lubrication that protects the organs and cavities

Stomach acid regurgitation damages esophageal mucosa, leading to symptoms like heartburn, burping, chronic dry cough, and sore throat.

DGL acts in the following ways.

By doing these, DGL may naturally help heal the esophageal lining, bringing down the symptoms of acid reflux. 

How To Use DGL Supplements?

DGL supplements are available in different strengths and as chewable tablets or gummies.

For best results, the supplement must be chewed thoroughly and mixed with saliva. This will help stimulate mucosal cell growth. 

According to studies, DGL capsules aren’t as effective as chewable forms. 

Talk to your doctor to understand the correct dosage for you. 

The Benefits

  1. DGL supplements can help strengthen the mucosal membrane and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
  2. A 2017 study reports that DGL supplements may help with gastric and intestinal irritation and act better than regular antacids.
  3. A 2014 study reports that licorice supplements may help handle oral mucositis (ulcers of the oral mucosa), an unpleasant side effect of radiotherapy. 
  4. A 2021 study analyzed the effects of DGL on bleomycin-induced oxidative lung damage in rats. Bleomycin is a drug to treat cancers. According to the study, DGL may help improve the antioxidant defense mechanism in the body and protect the lungs from oxidative damage. 

The Best Time To Take It

The best time to take DGL supplements would be 20 minutes before dinner.

How Long To Take It

You can take DGL supplements for 2-4 months, depending on the severity of GERD. 

Like all supplements, discontinue after one course to observe changes in the body. 

When you decide to restart the supplement, please inform your doctor.

Side Effects And Risks Associated With DGL Supplements

Consuming more than 3g licorice root/day for more than six weeks may cause sodium retention, low potassium, and hypertension. 

Consuming more than 100mg of pure glycyrrhizin/day would also lead to similar symptoms.

DGL is typically licorice with most of the glycyrrhizin removed. 

However, these supplements may not mention how much glycyrrhizin they could remove during the processing. So, excess consumption may still be harmful.

 Also, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate DGL supplements. So, finding a seller who promises pure and unadulterated DGL can be challenging.

People with the following conditions should avoid DGL if possible. 

Pregnant or lactating women must talk to their doctor to understand the risks of DGL before starting them. 

Natural Alternatives To DGL Supplements For Acid Reflux

Here are some other natural alternatives to DGL supplements for acid reflux.

D-Limonene 

Most of the citrus peels contain a substance called limonene. The chemical form of the same is called d-limonene. D-limonene has gastric acid-neutralizing properties and may be effectively used for heartburn and acid reflux.

Chamomile

Chamomile, a type of herb, may effectively bring down inflammation and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux when consumed before meal times. 

Ginger

Ginger, a common kitchen spice, may help reduce various symptoms of GERD, including bloating, burping, and gastritis. Studies report that ginger may also be used to treat gastric ulcerations. 

Papaya 

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain that may help improve digestion. A 2023 study reports that ripe papaya may be beneficial in treating signs of GERD.

Summary

  1. Licorice is a herb known for its various medicinal properties and contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that can be toxic in large quantities.
  2. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is licorice with most of the glycyrrhizin removed and is an alternative medicine to treat GERD and chronic acid reflux. 
  3. Acid reflux causes damage to the mucosal lining of the esophagus. DGL supplements strengthen the mucosal lining by increasing mucus production and number of mucosal cells. 
  4. DGL supplements are available as chewable tablets or gummies. Research suggests that it is best to take them 20 minutes before dinner. 
  5. Excess consumption of licorice may lead to sodium retention, hypertension, and decreased potassium levels. Please talk to your primary physician before starting any new supplement.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7348626/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1412184/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3498851/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441938/

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ajco.12295

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18072821

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10458865/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23612703/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10458865/

With the ever-increasing stress and anxiety levels, we all feel overwhelmed at times. There are days that leave us perplexed and unable to focus on work. And more often than not, such episodes of brain fog occur at the most inconvenient times. Is there an easy way to fight it? Turns out some vitamins are very effective when it comes to fighting brain fog. Let’s have a look at what these are and what your top choices of brain fog-fighting foods should be.


Did You Know?

Your brain fog could be a symptom of an underlying health condition. Find Out Your Risk For 50+ Health Conditions With The Gene Health Report


What Is Brain Fog?

Brain fog is a condition that includes a set of symptoms like declining memory, focusing issues, difficulty in processing information, fatigue, and scattered thoughts.

Brain fog is not a medical condition by itself. 

Causes of Brain Fog

Stress

Chronic stress can cause mental fatigue. 

The exhaustion arising out of this can make it harder to think and focus.

Lack of sleep

Sleep quality influences how your brain functions.

Inadequate or low-quality sleep can hamper your concentration and lead to muddled thinking.

Nutritional deficiencies

Vitamin B12 is a brain nutrient that supports healthy brain function.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in brain fog.

Medications

Brain fog is a side effect of many classes of drugs like antianxiety drugs, antidepressants, dopamine agonists, beta-blockers, and statins.

If you observe brain fog while taking medications, talk to your doctor about lowering the dose or switching to another medication.

Other medical conditions

Frequent brain fog may occur due to an underlying medical condition. Some of them include

Top 7 Vitamins For Brain Fog/ Top Supplements For Brain Fog

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

Omega-3s

Magnesium

B Complex Vitamins

Vitamin E

L-theanine

Are You Meeting Your Nutritional Needs? Find Out With Xcode Life’s Gene Nutrition Report.

Best Foods To Fight Brain Fog

Foods rich in the above-mentioned nutrients can enhance your overall brain health, which may help reduce brain fog symptoms.

Summary: Vitamins For Brain Fog

Brain fog is characterized by a set of symptoms, including difficulty concentrating, scattered thoughts, and mental fatigue.

Chronic stress and lack of sleep can result in brain fog. It is also caused by certain medications and medical conditions.

Nutrient intake through supplementation and food is one of the best ways to tackle brain fog. Some vitamins and minerals that help fight brain fog are vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3s, and L-theanine.

Last year, my cousin and I were prescribed the same antibiotic for similar infections. While I recovered quickly, she experienced severe side effects, leading us to question why. This personal experience brings us to the concept of pharmacogenomic testing – a revolutionary method that uses an individual’s genetic profile to predict drug response. Intriguingly, it reveals why medications don't have a uniform effect on everyone. However, pharmacogenomic testing isn't universally applicable. Understanding its scope and limitations is vital for those considering it. This article delves into the heart of why this groundbreaking testing, while transformative for some, remains out of reach or ineffective for others. We'll uncover the challenges and limitations surrounding pharmacogenomic testing and urge you to engage with this pivotal topic. Our collective understanding and advocacy can pave the way for more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.


Did You Know?

While some genes may affect the drug's efficacy, others may result in nasty side effects. That is why we want to help you and your physician understand your genetic changes to optimize treatment and outcomes. Xcode Life's Personalized Medicine Report profiles gene variants that influence your metabolic response to various drug therapies. The results of this report can be used as a supplement to the clinical decision-making process and reduce the cost and time associated with a trial-and-error treatment.

You can get your report using your existing DNA raw data file. No new DNA test required! Learn More


What Is Pharmacogenomics?

Pharmacogenomics is founded on the principle that genetic variations (single-letter changes in DNA that make everyone their unique self) among individuals influence their drug metabolism, transport, and response.

These genetic variations can impact an individual's drug effectiveness, safety, and dosage requirements.

For instance, some individuals possess genes that accelerate drug breakdown. Consequently, they may require a higher dosage to achieve the desired therapeutic effect than those who metabolize the drug more slowly.

Conversely, some individuals have genes that slow down drug metabolism. A lower dosage may be necessary to prevent adverse side effects.

Furthermore, a person's genetic makeup can affect their susceptibility to adverse reactions from certain medications, such as allergic responses, bleeding complications, or liver problems.

How Does Pharmacogenomics Work?

Pharmacogenomics utilizes pharmacogenetic tests to analyze an individual's DNA and identify variations in genes known to influence drug response.

These genetic factors play a pivotal role in several key aspects of the drug interaction process, including:

What Is Pharmacogenomic Testing?

Pharmacogenomic testing, or pharmacogenetics, is a lab test typically done using saliva, blood, or cheek cell samples.

This testing is part of precision medicine, which integrates genetic, environmental, and lifestyle data to develop personalized disease treatment and prevention approaches.

Pharmacogenomic testing can serve various purposes, such as:

Who Needs Pharmacogenomic Testing?

Pharmacogenomic testing might be suggested by your healthcare provider when initiating specific medications.

It is also considered if you are currently taking a drug that isn't giving the desired results or is causing severe side effects.

While not all medications have associated pharmacogenetic tests, some common examples include:


Xcode Life's Pharmacogenomic Test covers more than 500 genetic variants for drug responses.


Pharmacogenomic Testing Results

What Can You Expect?

Upon getting your pharmacogenomic test results, you may receive these key information:

How To Interpret It?

Pharmacogenomic test results use a standardized nomenclature, ensuring consistent interpretation across different laboratories.

Xcode Life's report provides details on the genetic variant analyzed for each drug. In the image below, the first line after the drug name "Warfarin," you can see the gene and the variant analyzed, along with your genotype.

The Evidence Level stands for how strong the association is between the variant and the drug interaction. Level 1 is the strongest.

The Recommendations section provides information on the genotype in the context of drug interaction.

A snippet from Xcode Life's Personalized Medicine/Pharmacogenomic Testing report

What’s The Accuracy?

While pharmacogenomic testing is generally accurate in predicting drug responses for most genes, accuracy can vary based on the gene and test type.

It's essential to know that pharmacogenomics is a developing field that requires ongoing research to understand the complex interplay between genes and drug responses fully.

What Are The Current Applications

Pharmacogenomics has been applied to several areas of medicine, such as psychiatry, cardiology, oncology, neurology, and infectious diseases.

Some examples of drugs that have pharmacogenetic guidelines or labels include:

What Are The Current Limitations

Pharmacogenomics' limitations include a variety of factors that go beyond genetic makeup and can impact the effectiveness of personalized drug therapy.

Some key limitations include:

Should I Get A Pharmacogenomic Test?

After discussing it with your doctor and carefully considering its potential benefits and drawbacks, the decision to undergo a pharmacogenomic test should be made.

It would help if you considered the following questions:

Remember, the benefits of pharmacogenomic testing vary from person to person, as it personalizes medication management based on individual genetic characteristics.

It's important to consult your doctor to determine if pharmacogenomic testing is appropriate for you.

Summary

Pharmacogenomics aims for personalized drug therapy, exploring how genes influence how our bodies respond to medications.

Results provide genotype details, drug response implications, and medication management guidance. However, accuracy varies by gene and test type.

Pharmacogenomics has applications in various medical fields. Despite this, limitations exist, including incomplete genetic explanation, drug interactions, health conditions, lifestyle factors, cost, and complex data interpretation.

Whether to get a pharmacogenomic test depends on factors like medical conditions, family history, access to testing, and guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Pharmacogenomic testing isn't a magic fix; decisions should involve consulting your doctor and carefully considering the pros and cons.

References

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/genomicresearch/pharmacogenomics/

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pharmacogenetic-tests/

https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/pharma.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000170/

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/science-and-research-drugs/table-pharmacogenomic-biomarkers-drug-labeling

https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/glossary/hla-b5701-test

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/pharmacogenomics

From that late-evening espresso to the thrill of an impending holiday or the relentless pressures of a busy workweek, numerous factors can disrupt our nightly slumber. Yet, what often escapes our notice is the stealthy role that steroids, commonly taken for allergies or inflammation, may play in keeping sleep at bay. Gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between steroids and sleep is crucial in safeguarding ourselves against sleep disorders such as insomnia. This awareness is key to not only recognizing the potential impact of these medications but also to implementing strategies to ensure a peaceful night's rest.


Did You Know?

Your genes encode drug-metabolizing enzymes, drug targets, and other proteins related to the action of drugs. Each individual has a unique genetic makeup. Hence, they might respond differently to certain medications. While some genes may affect the efficacy of the drug, others may result in side effects like insomnia. That is why we want to help you and your physician understand your genetic changes to optimize treatment and outcomes. Xcode Life's Personalized Medicine Report profiles gene variants that influence your metabolic response to various drug therapies. The results of this report can be used as a supplement to the clinical decision-making process and reduce the cost and time associated with a trial-and-error treatment. Learn More


What Are Steroids?

Corticosteroids or steroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. 

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and weaken the immune system.

Steroids are prescribed to treat and manage conditions like the following.

Corticosteroids are different than anabolic steroids, which are used to increase muscle mass.

Types Of Steroids

Steroid medications come in different forms.

Do Steroids Cause Insomnia?

Steroids usually don’t cause significant side effects if they are taken for a short time in smaller doses.

When used for more extended periods, steroids may cause the following side effects.

One of the very commonly noticed side effects of steroids is sleep disturbances, including insomnia. 

Insomnia is the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep all night.

People with insomnia don’t get good quality sleep at night, making them groggy in the morning. 

An older study looked at the effects of hydrocortisone (a type of corticosteroid) on brain function and sleep. This study reports that hydrocortisone decreased Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, which is associated with poor sleep quality. 

Why Do Steroids Make It Harder To Fall Asleep At Night?

Studies suggest that steroids have similar structures to cortisol, the stress hormone. 

The body makes cortisol when it is under stress. Usually, cortisol levels are high in the mornings and low at night to help the body rest.

Steroid medications disrupt the natural cortisol rhythm and keep the brain active at night. 

Steroids may also reduce serum melatonin levels. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain during darkness. 

Melatonin encourages the body to sleep. Steroids may cause sleep problems by reducing melatonin secretion. 

Do All Types Of Steroids Cause Insomnia?

All types of steroids may cause insomnia when the dosage is high or the period of usage is extended. 

Corticosteroid tablets may show substantial side effects because the medication affects all parts of the body compared to injections or sprays that have more focused areas of action.   

Who Is More Prone To Steroid-Induced Insomnia?

The following are the risk factors for steroid-induced insomnia.

  1. Type of steroids used (oral medication seems to cause more severe side effects than other types).
  2. High doses of steroids or taking them for longer periods.
  3. Existing sleep disorders.
  4. Children and the elderly

How To Prevent Steroid-Induced Insomnia?

While it is clear that corticosteroids may cause insomnia, for some people, these drugs can be important and cannot be avoided. 

So, here are some tips from sleep experts on handling the drug's side effects. 

Tips From Sleep Experts

Dosage and period of use

All studies report that the higher the dosage and the more extended the period of use, the risk of insomnia is high.

A 2020 study reports that symptoms of insomnia may start from day three of corticosteroid therapy and continue for as long as the medication is taken.

Talk to your doctor about the dosage and period of use, and try lowering both if possible. 

Timing of dosage

Taking steroids in the evening or before bedtime may increase the chances of staying awake. Morning doses seem to be better for this reason. 

Replenishing lost melatonin

Since corticosteroids drain melatonin levels, replenishing lost melatonin may help fall asleep at night.

Talk to your doctor to see if you could start melatonin supplements while on corticosteroids. 

Avoid Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome

Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome (SWS) is an unpleasant side effect of stopping steroids abruptly, especially if you have been using them for a longer period. 

SWS can cause muscle stiffness, fatigue, joint pain, fever, or sleep disturbances. SWS could also be a contributor to insomnia.

Doctors recommend slowly waning off the dosage to help prevent SWS.

HELPME SLEEP

HELPME SLEEP is a nomogram created to help handle sleep problems in critically ill patients. 

Individuals struggling with steroid-induced insomnia can also pick up pointers from this nomogram to help handle the issue. 

Some tips that can help include:


Hand-picked Content For You: Can Lack Of Sleep Cause Nausea? How To Prevent It?


Summary: Do Steroids Cause Insomnia?

  1. Corticosteroid medications are often used to handle inflammatory and auto-immune conditions.
  2. Prolonged consumption of steroid medications or using high doses may cause insomnia, a condition that makes it difficult to sleep.
  3. Oral steroid tablets may have stronger side effects than nasal sprays, inhalers, or injections.
  4. Studies report that steroids mimic the actions of cortisol, the stress hormone, and put the body in an alert state. Steroids may also deplete melatonin levels, lowering the ability to fall asleep.
  5. Correcting the dosage and period of use, avoiding using steroid medications before bedtime, making up for lost melatonin, and gradually waning off the drugs to prevent Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome are all ways to avoid steroid-induced insomnia.

Reference:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7829766/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7357890/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008542/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29061489/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3614616/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4052587/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/steroids/

Imagine having a tiny architect inside every cell of your body, designing and defining everything from your smile to the way you laugh. These microscopic architects, the genes, play a fascinating role in making you, well, you!

What Are Genes?

Genes are segments of DNA packed within the cells of every living creature. Imagine a long, winding train with countless carriages; each carriage here represents a gene. These genes carry the instructions for making proteins, which are the fundamental components of our body, influencing everything from our eye color to how our body fights diseases.

How Do Genes Work?

Think of genes as information vaults. Each one stores detailed instructions for making the proteins necessary for your body's various functions. The human genome is an impressive collection of about 20,687 protein-coding genes, each a key player in your biological makeup. From determining your hair texture to influencing how you metabolize food, genes are the directors behind the scenes of your life's play. The way they are expressed, or 'turned on and off,' determines how these proteins are produced. Various factors, including environmental elements and lifestyle choices, influence this process.

Alleles: The Variants of Life

Genes come in different versions, known as alleles, which bring variety and individuality to life. For instance, one allele may lead to curly hair, while another results in straight hair. It's the combination of these alleles, one inherited from each parent, that weaves your unique genetic tapestry. This diversity extends beyond physical traits; it includes differences like having dimples, blood type, or even susceptibility to allergies. Alleles are the essence of genetic diversity, playing a crucial role in both individual uniqueness and the broader scope of human evolution.

Did You Know?

The study of genes and their functions has led to groundbreaking discoveries in medicine and biology. For instance, understanding genetic mutations has been crucial in identifying the risk of certain diseases and developing targeted therapies. Moreover, the versatility of genes is so profound that they can influence how we metabolize foods and medicines - a key factor in personalized medicine.


And that’s a wrap on genes! They're not just biological jargon; they're the essence of our physical and even behavioral traits. Join us next time in the "2-Minute DNA Digest" as we dive into another exciting aspect of genetics. Remember, every part of you tells a story written in the language of genes!

Are you looking for a natural way to support your liver's detoxification process? Folate, a B vitamin found in many foods, may be the answer you're searching for. Not only does it play a crucial role in DNA synthesis and cell division, but recent studies have shown that it can help with liver detox by washing the harmful toxins out of the body. Keep reading to find out if adding folate to your diet could be the key to a healthier, happier liver.


Did You Know?

Vitamin B9 needs to be converted into a form called tetrahydrofolate or THF to be effectively used by the body. The conversion of folic acid to THF is carried out by an enzyme called THF reductase. This conversion is a very crucial step in the MTHFR cycle. The MTHFR gene is a well-known gene associated with folate deficiency. This gene helps the conversion of inactive vitamin B9, such as folate or folic acid, to active B9, the THF. 30-60% of people have a change in this gene that ultimately leads to low vitamin B9 levels in the body. Other genes like MTYL1 also influence your vitamin B9 levels. A simple genetic test can reveal your genetic status of vitamin B9 deficiency. Learn more.


What is Liver Detoxification?

Detoxification is the metabolic filtration process by which the liver rids the blood and body of harmful and foreign substances.

It helps convert toxins into waste products, cleanses the blood, and metabolizes nutrients and medications to provide the body with essential proteins.

For this reason, it is of paramount importance to keep your liver healthy.

How Does Folate Help With Liver Detox?

Folate or folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin in several foods, including leafy greens. 

This essential vitamin plays a vital role in many biosynthetic processes, acting as a donor or carbon molecules like methyl groups (called methylation) to other organic compounds.

This process of methylation forms a part of the liver’s detoxification process.

The normal plasma folate levels in adults are 2 to 20 ng/mL. 

Adults require about 200 micrograms of folate every day, while pregnant women are recommended to take 400 micrograms daily throughout their first trimester.

What Happens When There’s a Folate Deficiency?

When the intake of folate is less, it can lead to folate deficiency. Common symptoms of folate deficiency are:

How Does Folate Support Liver Detox Function?

Elevated liver enzymes in routine liver function tests indicate a problem with the organ.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise are two effective and inexpensive ways to keep the liver enzymes within the normal range.

Adding folate to the diet or taking folic acid supplements is known to lower liver enzymes.

A 2016 study linked folate deficiency to increased alanine transaminase (ALT) (a type of liver enzyme) levels and liver damage.

The study also stated that folic acid intake lowered ALT levels in people with liver damage.

Several studies have found that folate can help slow down the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and reverse inflammation and fibrosis (thickening of scar tissue in the liver).

Infographic showing different forms of liver cirrhosis

Vitamin B12 and Folate May Help Reverse Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by fat build-up in the liver.

1 in 4 Americans suffers from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, resulting in cirrhosis and cancer over time.

Scientists at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore have discovered a mechanism that leads to fatty liver disease.

Their research found that vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements can reverse the process that leads to NAFLD.

Study Details

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is an umbrella term for a range of liver conditions affecting people who drink little or no alcohol.

One of the study's authors highlighted that fat deposition in the liver is reversible in its early stages. 

If the condition is allowed to progress, the excess fat results in liver inflammation. This is termed nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Unfortunately, there are no treatments for NASH, as scientists don’t completely understand the mechanics of the disease.

What is known is that NASH is associated with elevated levels of homocysteine (an amino acid).

Note: High homocysteine levels are toxic to the body; this amino acid is broken down by 2 vitamins - B9 and B12.

Study Findings 

The authors found an association between homocysteine and NASH progression in preclinical models and humans

When there’s an excess of homocysteine, it attaches to some liver proteins, thereby preventing them from doing their functions. 

One such protein implicated in NASH is syntaxin 17, which is involved in the transportation, digestion, and removal of fats.

When homocysteine binds to syntaxin 17, it prevents the protein from removing fat from the body. 

This drives the development and progression of fatty liver disease to NASH.

An Inexpensive Therapy For NASH

The study reported that two vitamins (B12 and B9) increase syntaxin 17 levels by breaking down excess homocysteine in the body.

The increased levels support the removal of fat cells.

This was found to slow down NASH progress and reverse liver inflammation and fibrosis.

The author says, “Vitamin B12/B8 could be an inexpensive way to prevent and delay NASH progression. Further, homocysteine levels can be used as a marker to assess NASH severity.”

Foods Rich in Vitamin B12 and Folate

Several foods are rich sources of vitamin B12 and folate.

A few common folate-rich foods to include in the diet:

Adults need about 1.5 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily.

Foods that are excellent sources of vitamin B12 are

5 Effective Ways To Support Your Liver Detox

Many factors like unhealthy lifestyles, exposure to pollution, and hard metals in diets can impair detoxification, resulting in several chronic conditions.

While the liver is the primary detoxification center in the body, other organs like the intestines, kidneys, and skin also play significant roles.

Here are some ways to support your liver detox:

Lower Your Toxin Load/Exposure

We are exposed to toxins and harmful chemicals every day.

Eating a clean diet and drinking hygienic water are the best ways to reduce your toxic load.

Here are some ways to lower your toxin load:

Reduce Alcohol And Quit Smoking

While a glass of alcohol or a smoking session may seem relaxing at the end of a tiring day, they surely pump your body with harmful chemicals and toxins.

Limiting your alcohol and caffeine consumption and staying clear of any kind of smoke (active or passive) do a big favor to your liver.

Replacing smoking and drinking with healthy de-stress activities like walking, going to the gym, or doing yoga can support your liver detox.

Add Supplements To Boost Detox

Glutathione is an antioxidant found in plants and is made up of the amino acid glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid.

It is one of the major substances responsible for detoxification.

Glutathione can be taken as a supplement to boost liver detox.

Disclaimer: Nutritional supplements should be taken only after consulting a qualified medical practitioner. This article is for informational purposes only and doesn’t serve as a prescription for any drug/supplement.

Clean Your Gut

Gut health is important for immunity and overall health, and well-being.

When there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, it makes eliminating toxins in the intestines and the liver difficult, increasing the load on the kidneys.

Eating foods that cause inflammation, imbalance of healthy bacteria and yeast, and accumulation of harmful heavy metals can affect detoxification.

A clean diet rich in antioxidants and healthy nutrients can support the liver’s detoxification process.

Understand Your Genes

Changes in certain genes can result in impaired detoxification.

A genetic mutation (abnormal change) that commonly affects detoxification is the MTHFR mutation.

The MTHFR gene produces an enzyme that converts inactive vitamin B9 to the active form.

Certain changes in this gene can result in MTHFR enzyme deficiency; this can decrease the levels of active vitamin B9, leading to homocysteine buildup.

This impaired gene functioning is said to cause chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, asthma, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and autism.

Knowing about your genes and the presence of mutations can help you and your doctor take appropriate measures to restore normal detoxification.

Summary: Does Folate Help With Liver Detox?

  1. The metabolic process by which the liver processes and eliminates harmful and foreign substances from the body is called detoxification.
  2. Impaired detoxification can lead to several chronic conditions, including non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
  3. Research conducted by Duke-NUS Medical School identified that homocysteine could lead to the worsening of NAFLD, which can be corrected with vitamin B9 and B12 supplements.
  4. B9 and B12 needs can be met by consuming foods rich in these vitamins, like leafy greens, dairy products, fish, meat, and fortified cereals.
  5. You can support liver detoxification by eating clean, reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, working out regularly, and understanding your genetic profile.

References

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