Effects of (purslane) on liver function tests, metabolic profile, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver disease. exhibits anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. This clinical trial aimed to investigate the potential benefits of in improving NAFLD.

METHODS

This double-blind, randomized clinical trial enrolled 70 patients with NAFLD assigned to either the intervention group ( = 35) or placebo group ( = 35) using stratified block randomization. The intervention group received 700 mg supplement for eight weeks, while the control group received placebo capsules. In addition, all participants received a calorie-restricted diet. Liver steatosis and fibrosis were assessed using elastography along with liver function and metabolic tests, blood pressure measurements, body composition analysis and dietary records pre-and post-intervention.

RESULTS

The average age of the participants was 44.01 ± 8.6 years, of which 34 (48.6%) were women. The group receiving showed significant weight changes, body mass index, fat mass index, and waist circumference compared to the placebo ( < 0.001). In addition, blood sugar, lipid profile, liver enzymes aspartate and alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and systolic blood pressure were significantly improved in the intervention group compared to those in the placebo ( < 0.05). During the study, inflammatory and oxidative stress indicators, improved significantly ( < 0.05). Based on the elastography results, the hepatorenal ultrasound index and liver stiffness decreased significantly in the group compared to the placebo ( < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The present clinical trial showed that receiving supplement for eight weeks can improve the condition of liver steatosis and fibrosis in patients with NAFLD.