A new doctoral research study suggests that the familiar Finnish berry, lingonberry, may offer significant health benefits. Lingonberry has long been known for its health properties, but recent research has further explored its potential to prevent liver fat accumulation and metabolic disorders.
In her study, Master of Food Science Riitta Ryyti added lingonberry powder to a high-fat diet resembling a typical Western diet. The results showed that lingonberry prevented low-grade inflammation and metabolic disturbances related to sugar and fat metabolism. In mouse trials, groups that consumed lingonberry had significantly lower levels of inflammatory markers and the hormone leptin compared to the control group on a high-fat diet.
Lingonberry also appeared to prevent the increase in cholesterol, blood sugar, weight, and visceral fat caused by a high-fat diet. Moreover, it inhibited the rise of serum ALT enzyme levels, which can indicate liver cell damage caused by fatty liver disease.
The research highlighted that even lingonberry peel extract had positive effects on glucose metabolism, weight management, and visceral fat reduction, suggesting that the peel still contains potent bioactive compounds that should not be overlooked.
As body weight increases, adipose tissue begins to secrete inflammatory compounds, leading to low-grade systemic inflammation that raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Excess weight also alters liver metabolism, leading to fatty liver, which is often symptomless but can progress to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Interestingly, lingonberry was found to counteract the high-fat diet’s impact on the expression of about 250 genes related to inflammation, fat metabolism, insulin resistance, and diabetes development. Ryyti encourages incorporating lingonberry into a healthy diet but emphasizes that further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms, optimal dosages, and effects on humans.
Adding lingonberry to your diet could be a natural way to support liver health and overall well-being, especially for those dealing with weight-related issues.
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