How to Manage Lipid Metabolism in MASLD (NAFLD) with Marine Ingredient
Why MASLD Is a Growing Concern for Liver Health Solutions
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as NAFLD, is becoming one of the most prevalent chronic liver conditions globally, affecting nearly a quarter of the adult population. MASLD is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in liver cells, independent of alcohol consumption or other known causes. This lipid overload disrupts cellular balance, contributing to oxidative stress, inflammation, and hepatocyte injury—eventually leading to fibrosis and long-term liver damage.
In March 2024, the FDA approved the first drug for this disease—Rezdiffra™ (resmetirom)—but only for adults with non-cirrhotic NASH (now classified as MASH) and moderate to advanced fibrosis, in combination with diet and exercise. While this is a milestone, the treatment is limited to more severe cases and may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, muscle spasms, and altered thyroid function. Its prescription-only nature and high cost further limit its accessibility.
These limitations highlight the continued need for safe, natural, and well-tolerated alternatives like FucoBalan®, especially for early-stage MASLD or preventive liver support.
Introducing FucoBalan® : A Dual-Action Marine Ingredient
FucoBalan® is a functional ingredient that combines the benefits of Oligo Fucoidan and algae based nutrients including HS fucoxanthin and marine phyto complex, providing a safe and bioactive component for health. These marine-derived bioactives are extracted from brown seaweed and have been individually recognized for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory properties.
Clinical Results: Improved Lipid Profiles and Reduced Liver Fat
In a 24-week clinical study on MASLD patients, supplementation with FucoBalan® resulted in notable improvements in lipid metabolism, including:
- Significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels.
- Lower CAP (Controlled Attenuation Parameter) scores, a non-invasive ultrasound marker used to evaluate liver fat content. A decreased CAP value indicates reduced hepatic steatosis.
These results suggest that FucoBalan® may help reduce lipotoxicity and improve liver fat accumulation, offering a natural strategy for supporting liver health.
Mechanisms Behind FucoBalan’s Lipid-Modulating Effects
1. Regulation of the Leptin–Adiponectin Axis
FucoBalan® has been shown to influence two critical adipokines—leptin and adiponectin:
- Adiponectin enhances fatty acid oxidation and glucose utilization while inhibiting liver glucose production. Low adiponectin levels are common in obesity and MASLD.
- Leptin helps regulate appetite and promotes fat oxidation and energy expenditure.
- In both human and animal studies, FucoBalan® increased serum levels of leptin and adiponectin, and upregulated related gene expressions in adipose tissues. This suggests a role in rebalancing metabolic hormones and supporting lipid clearance from the liver.
2. Activation of the SIRT–PGC-1 Pathway
- The SIRT–PGC-1 signaling pathway is crucial for regulating mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism:
- FucoBalan® activates SIRT family proteins (SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT6), enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation.
- It also downregulates de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and hepatic gluconeogenesis, reducing the liver’s burden to produce fat and glucose.
- In liver cell models, FucoBalan® restored mitochondrial function and regulated key metabolic genes such as PGC-1α/β and ATGL, a protein involved in lipid breakdown.
Conclusion: FucoBalan® as a Next-Generation Solution for Liver Wellness
The data strongly supports FucoBalan® as a science-backed, multi-mechanism nutraceutical for improving lipid metabolism in MASLD patients. By:
- Lowering serum cholesterol and triglycerides,
- Reducing liver fat accumulation,
- Modulating adipokine balance, and
- Enhancing mitochondrial and metabolic function,
FucoBalan® offers a comprehensive strategy for liver support, especially in populations with metabolic syndrome, obesity, or early-stage MASLD.
For supplement companies seeking to develop next-generation liver health products, FucoBalan® presents a clinically supported, naturally derived active that aligns with growing consumer demand for clean-label, effective, and preventive solutions.
Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809062/
Related Hi-Q Products
