Dietary Oils for Fatty Liver Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two types of dietary oils to assess their effects on liver health and metabolism in individuals with fatty liver disease. Over 16 weeks, participants will consume foods made with either soybean oil or palm oil to measure changes in liver fat, body fat, and other health markers. It suits those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease who experience issues like weight gain or fatigue. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to understanding dietary impacts on liver health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot use Vitamin E supplements, Actos, or certain diabetes medications less than a month before enrolling. Also, if your medications conflict with the study foods, you may not be eligible.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that soybean oil can have both positive and negative effects on the liver. Some studies suggest it may reduce liver fat and improve liver function in individuals with fatty liver disease, potentially benefiting heart health as well. However, other research indicates that soybean oil might worsen liver damage if the liver is already compromised.
Palm oil often serves as a comparison in studies. While generally safe to consume, it does not offer the same potential liver benefits as soybean oil.
Overall, both oils are commonly used in foods and are considered safe in normal amounts. However, their effects on liver health can vary based on a person's health and diet.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for fatty liver disease because they explore the impact of dietary oils, specifically soybean and palm oil, on liver health. Unlike conventional treatments that might focus on medications to reduce liver fat or lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, this approach examines the direct effects of specific dietary fats. Palm oil serves as a placebo comparator, while soybean oil is being tested for its potential benefits. This could lead to a more natural and accessible dietary intervention for managing fatty liver disease.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for fatty liver disease?
This trial will compare the effects of foods made with soybean oil to those made with palm oil on fatty liver disease. Research suggests that foods containing soybean oil might aid in managing fatty liver disease. Studies have shown that soybean oil, rich in healthy fats, can be part of a diet that improves liver health. Some evidence indicates that soybean oil can even help prevent or reduce liver fat in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). As a key component of the Mediterranean diet, soybean oil is associated with liver health benefits. However, one study found that in certain diets, soybean oil might worsen liver damage, so results can vary. Overall, foods with soybean oil have shown promise for liver health, but more research is needed to fully understand their effects.23467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The WELL Study is for adults with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) or similar conditions, who are nonsmokers with a BMI of 25-55 kg/m2. It's not for those with heart issues, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people unable to undergo venipuncture, those on certain diets or medications that conflict with the study foods, and individuals with specific gastrointestinal diseases, kidney failure, some liver and pulmonary diseases.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume 3 study foods per day for 16 weeks, with either soybean oil or palm oil, while maintaining their body weight
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Palm Oil Foods
- Soybean Oil Foods
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ohio State University
Lead Sponsor