Study suggests powerful liver benefits from polyphenols

The liver: a vital and fragile organ

A veritable ‘chemical factory’ for the body, the liver performs a number of essential functions: it detoxifies the blood, stores nutrients (glucose, vitamins), synthesises proteins and aids digestion by producing bile.

However, this organ can be put under immense strain. One of the most common disorders is hepatic steatosis, also known as 'fatty liver'. It is characterised by an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver cells.

While steatosis can be linked to excessive alcohol consumption (alcoholic steatosis), it can also affect people who do not drink.

Most often, it occurs in people who are too sedentary, overweight or suffering from a metabolic imbalance. This is known as non-alcoholic fatty liver.

If left untreated, this condition can develop into more serious complications such as fibrosis, cirrhosis or disturbances to the general metabolism.

Preserving liver health is therefore a key factor in staying fit and healthy.

Polyphenols and liver health: what a recent study reveals

A study published in Scientific Reports in March 2024 analysed the link between polyphenol intake and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (1).

The researchers observed that individuals with a higher intake of polyphenols had a significantly reduced risk of developing steatosis.

These results suggest that these plant compounds, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, could play a protective role for the liver.

Among the mechanisms involved:

• Polyphenols could help reduce oxidative stress in liver cells, a key factor in the progression of steatosis (2).
• They may also modulate the inflammatory response by regulating some cytokines and pro-inflammatory enzymes (3).
• Certain polyphenols, such as flavonoids, could promote lipolysis and limit the accumulation of fat in the liver (4).

Although these results are encouraging, they need to be qualified.

Further studies are needed to confirm the impact of polyphenols in reducing the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and to determine optimal doses.

The point here is not to regard polyphenols as 'miracle cures', but rather as support for liver protection.

How can we increase our intake of polyphenols?

Combined with a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet, polyphenols could become valuable allies in liver health. And while they are easily found in the diet, targeted food supplements can also be considered.

Eat foods rich in polyphenols

To include more polyphenols in your diet, try:

• apples and pears, lychees, grapes, stone fruit, citrus fruit, berries, oilseeds
• artichokes, parsley, Brussels sprouts, aromatic herbs
• tea, dark chocolate (minimum 70%) and spices such as turmeric and cloves

These varied foods provide several types of polyphenols (flavonoids, lignans, resveratrol, phenolic acids, etc.), with synergistic effects on the body.

Targeted supplements to boost intake

In certain situations (such as an unbalanced diet), dietary supplements can be used to optimise polyphenol intake.

Punicalagins: powerful polyphenols in pomegranates

Pomegranates are a particularly rich source of punicalagins, polyphenols with powerful antioxidant properties.

Studies show that these compounds help neutralise free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage (5).

Several studies also suggest that they may support liver function by limiting inflammation and promoting the elimination of toxins (6).

Including pomegranate in the diet or in the form of food supplements could therefore be a good aid for liver health and vitality.

Discover Double Pomegranate, a pomegranate extract (Punica granatum) particularly rich in powerful polyphenolic antioxidants (punicalagin, punicalin and ellagic acid).

Schisandra chinensis: an adaptogenic plant that protects the liver

Schisandra chinensis is an adaptogenic plant in Chinese pharmacopoeia, rich in lignans with powerful antioxidant effects.

It is reputed to support liver cell regeneration and improve the liver's resistance to toxins and oxidative stress (9).

Traditionally used in Oriental medicine to promote energy and detoxification, it is a precious ally for overall well-being.

Discover Schisandra Chinensis, a dietary supplement dedicated to liver protection.

Triphala: an Ayurvedic formula with powerful polyphenols

A complex of Ayurvedic berries (Amla, Haritaki and Bibhitaki), Triphala is a remarkable source of antioxidant polyphenols.

In Ayurveda, it is used to support digestion, promote the elimination of toxins and strengthen liver function (10).

Its active compounds make it an ideal solution for maintaining digestive wellbeing and liver vitality.

Discover Triphala, an Ayurvedic food supplement made from three fruits: Harada (Terminalia chebula), Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Behada (Terminalia belerica). It helps to create a favourable biochemical environment in the intestine and throughout the body, supporting the liver's natural detoxification mechanisms.

Desmodium: a classic in liver detox cures

Although Desmodium is not a major source of polyphenols, this African plant is widely recognised for supporting liver function.

It is traditionally used to support detoxification processes and help the liver cope with metabolic overload.

Discover Desmodium Liver Detox, an essential complement to liver detox programmes.