GLP-1: a new hope against fatty liver?

Steatohepatitis associated with metabolic dysfunction (MASH): a form of ‘fatty liver disease’

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), refers to the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver and its consequences.

It is often referred to as ‘non-alcoholic fatty liver disease’.

When it is overworked, the liver can no longer manage these fats properly. This can lead to inflammation and progressive damage to liver cells.

In some cases, this phenomenon can develop into fibrosis, i.e. the formation of scar tissue in the liver, which is no longer able to carry out the organ's usual functions (detoxification, synthesis of proteins and coagulation factors, regulation of metabolism, etc.) (1).

The final stage of untreated fibrosis is cirrhosis, a disease that is not necessarily linked to alcohol consumption, contrary to what is often thought.

In cirrhosis, much of the liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. The liver becomes rigid and gradually loses its ability to perform its functions.

Driven by obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and certain metabolic disorders, MASH is increasingly common throughout the world (2).

This is why researchers are looking at new ways of supporting the liver, in particular the use of GLP-1 agonists.

A study on GLP-1 agonists suggests effects on liver fat

Particularly encouraging results

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone naturally produced by the body. It is known in particular for regulating appetite and blood sugar levels (3).

Certain drugs called GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide, mimic its action.

A clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2024 (4) showed that, in people with excess fatty liver with mild to moderate fibrosis, administration of semaglutide once a week for 240 weeks was correlated with:

• improvement in liver composition and inflammation without worsening of fibrosis in more than 60% of cases, compared with approximately 34% of subjects on placebo
• reduction in scar tissue without worsening of steatohepatitis in more than 36% of patients, compared with around 22% of those on placebo
• resolution of steatohepatitis with a reduction in fibrosis in 32.7% of patients, compared with 16.1% in the placebo group
• average reduction in body weight of 10.5%, compared with just 2.0% on placebo

The mechanisms that could explain these results

From a medical point of view, these effects on liver health could be explained by several complementary mechanisms:

• a general reduction in body fat, particularly visceral fat in the abdomen and liver, a criterion often associated with improvements in liver parameters (5)
• a reduction in oxidative stress, known to damage liver cells (6)

Although potentially interesting for supporting liver function, GLP-1 agonists are drug treatments that can have side effects (7).

This is why research is also exploring natural ways of stimulating the body's natural secretion of GLP-1, alongside a suitable lifestyle. Because, to date, the most effective strategy for reducing fatty liver remains gradual and lasting weight loss.

Discover the GLP-1 Booster Formula food supplement to naturally support GLP-1 secretion as part of weight loss.

In the event of proven liver disease or doubt, always seek medical advice before taking any supplements.

Support liver function naturally

Balanced diet + physical activity: the combo to prevent fat storage

The best way to prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver is to combine a balanced diet with regular exercise to lose weight, and therefore visceral fat (8).

Eating a balanced diet rich in fibre, fruit, vegetables and unsaturated fatty acids helps to limit the storage of fat around the digestive organs, particularly the liver.

Physical activity, even moderate (brisk walking, cycling, swimming), improves glycemic response (9) and encourages the removal of excess fat. What's more, once you've reached your ideal weight, it helps to stabilise the results you've achieved.

Natural ingredients that help support the liver

Today, a number of nutrients, plant extracts and natural ingredients are being studied for their potential role in liver protection and metabolism.

Important: if you suspect liver disease, have a confirmed diagnosis or are taking medication, it is essential to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

The use of food supplements, even natural ones, can help support the liver in certain cases, but should never replace medical treatment.

Choline: a key player in fat metabolism

Choline plays a part in normal lipid metabolism and in maintaining normal liver function.

Sufficient intakes of choline therefore help to limit the accumulation of fat in certain organs, while helping to keep the liver functioning properly.

Conversely, according to one study, insufficient intakes are correlated with a greater frequency of development of hepatic steatosis (10).

Discover the Choline Complex dietary supplement, a synergistic combination of 3 bioavailable forms of choline.

N-acetyl-cysteine: a precursor of glutathione

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is a precursor of cysteine, itself a direct precursor of the glutathione produced by the body and considered a major antioxidant.

Today, NAC is being studied for its potential role in protecting liver cells, particularly in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (11).

Discover N-Acetyl Cysteine, a dietary supplement formulated to provide an optimal dose each day.

Antrodia: a rare mushroom studied for its effects on the liver

Antrodia camphorata is a traditional Asian mushroom, clinically studied for its overall impact on liver health.

Some research suggests that it may support liver detoxification, manage excess fat and protect against various liver lesions (12).

Discover Antrodia Liver Health, a dietary supplement containing ProAntro®, a fermented extract of Antrodia camphorata mycelium validated by two proprietary efficacy studies.

Silymarin: a milk thistle extract with antioxidant properties

Widely documented for its antioxidant effects, silymarin extracted from milk thistle supports liver health and contributes to its detoxifying potential (13).

Discover Liver Support Formula, a food supplement containing silymarin-rich milk thistle and plant extracts studied for their effects on the liver.

Curcumin: a compound undergoing extensive research

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, is the subject of numerous studies for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

It could contribute to digestive comfort and support the liver and biliary function. It is also thought to help digest fats and prevent their accumulation (14).

Discover Super Curcuma, a patented turmeric extract, standardised to 18-22% curcuminoids, and designed to absorb 29 times more curcuminoids than conventional products.