A recent study reveals that camu camu, a small but potent berry from the Amazon rainforest, may offer a natural solution for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study, led by Professor André Marette of Laval University, found that this superfruit significantly reduced liver fat in overweight individuals within a short period.
In a randomized, double-blind trial, 30 overweight adults with elevated blood lipid levels—a marker for NAFLD—were given either 1.5 grams of camu camu powder or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The results were striking: those who consumed camu camu experienced a nearly 7.5 percent reduction in liver fat, while the placebo group saw an 8.5 percent increase. This translates to more than a 15 percent difference, showcasing the potential of camu camu as a powerful natural remedy for fatty liver disease.
Camu camu is known for its exceptionally high vitamin C content and a unique mix of polyphenols, including ellagic acid and castalagin, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds play a crucial role in fat metabolism, helping to break down fat in the liver and inhibit the formation of new fat.
The study suggests that camu camu’s effectiveness is closely linked to gut health. A well-balanced gut microbiome, rich in beneficial bacteria, enhances the metabolism of camu camu’s polyphenols, allowing the body to better assimilate these compounds and reduce liver fat. Participants who consumed camu camu also showed improvements in key liver enzymes and beneficial changes in their gut microbiomes, further linking gut health to liver health.
These findings are particularly important given the limited pharmacological treatments currently available for NAFLD, which largely relies on lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. The study’s results indicate that camu camu could offer a targeted approach to treating liver fat without necessitating significant weight loss or overall fat reduction.
The research team plans to further investigate the role of gut bacteria in metabolizing camu camu’s polyphenols, aiming to identify the key bacteria that enhance its effectiveness. This could lead to more personalized treatments based on an individual’s gut microbiota composition.
