Vegan Diets Improve Liver Function

Vegan diets improve liver function in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), according to research published in the Journal of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases. Researchers followed 26 participants with NAFLD on a vegan diet for six months and tracked body weight, calorie intake, and liver function. Dietitians supported participant dietary adherence via monthly phone calls or clinic visits. Results showed weight loss and improvements in liver enzymes toward normal levels. Increased consumption of plant-based foods improved antioxidant intake and gut microbiota beneficial to liver enzymes. These findings support plant-based dietary approaches for liver disease treatment and the prevention of associated chronic conditions including hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma.