For years, doctors have faced challenges in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition affecting over 25 percent of adults globally. But a recent discovery points to an unexpected remedy: the camu camu berry from the Amazon rainforest.
NAFLD is marked by fat buildup in the liver, which can lead to inflammation, scarring and even liver failure if not addressed. It’s closely associated with diabetes, metabolic disorders and obesity, making it a significant health concern as global obesity rates climb. Currently, there are no approved medications for NAFLD, leaving diet and exercise as the primary treatments for this disease.
This is why researchers are examining the camu camu berry, a small red fruit native to the Amazon rainforest. The berry is rich in antioxidants, fiber and polyphenols – plant compounds with evidence-based health benefits.
The camu camu berry, a small red fruit native to the Amazon, is rich in antioxidants, fiber and polyphenols–plant compounds with evidence-based health benefits.
In this study, 30 obese or overweight adults with high triglycerides were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. They were split into two groups: one received 1.5 grams of camu camu powder daily, while the other got a placebo (maltodextrin) for 12 weeks, followed by a four-week break before switching treatments.
Researchers focused on measuring liver fat content using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with other indicators of liver and metabolic health and changes in gut bacteria. After 12 weeks, those taking camu camu saw a notable 15.85 percent reduction in liver fat, while the placebo group experienced an 8.42 percent increase. Camu camu also lowered liver enzymes ALT and AST, which are markers of liver damage.
Additionally, the camu camu group had beneficial changes in their gut microbiome, including more good bacteria, like Lactobacillus, and fewer harmful ones linked to NAFLD. However, there were no changes in body weight or overall body fat between the two groups.
Evidence-based health benefits of camu camu
Scientifically known as Myrciaria dubia, camu camu has more proven health benefits. Here are some of them:
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Camu camu stands out for its high vitamin C content. Vitamin C helps with boosting the immune system, collagen production, iron absorption and wound healing. A 100-gram serving of camu camu fruit pulp contains between 877 to 3,133 milligrams of vitamin C, although levels can vary depending on where the plant is grown. Besides vitamin C, camu camu also provides calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc.
Boosts the immune system
The antioxidants in camu camu, including anthocyanins, support immune health by affecting key immune cells (dendritic cells, lymphocytes and macrophages). Vitamin C in camu camu helps keep cells healthy by protecting them from damage caused by harmful molecules produced during inflammation. It boosts the ability of immune cells to engulf and destroy harmful particles and germs (phagocytosis). Vitamin C also helps white blood cells, called neutrophils, move to infection sites to fight off invaders. At the same time, it helps prevent too much damage to tissues by supporting the natural process of cell death and clearing away damaged cells.
Has anti-bacterial, anti-malarial and anti-viral properties
Research has identified various beneficial bioactive compounds in camu camu, such as polyphenols and those correlated with anti-parasitic properties which could be useful in treating diseases, like malaria and schistosomiasis. Seed extracts have shown potential as sources for new treatments.
Supports healthy blood sugar levels
Research published in the open access, peer-reviews journal Metabolites showed that the lowest dose of camu camu extract effectively reduced non-HDL cholesterol, which includes all the harmful types of cholesterol and free fatty acids. Only the highest dose of camu camu extract prevented fat accumulation, issues related to high-fat diets, such as insulin resistance, liver cholesterol buildup, liver triglyceride accumulation and weight gain. Both low and high doses of the fruit extract were found to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels and enhancing glucose tolerance.
Promotes eye health
With its high content of vitamin E and carotenoids, camu camu helps protect against eye damage and can slow the progression of age-related conditions, like cataracts and macular degeneration.
Improves oral and gum health
Camu camu’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help combat gingivitis and other gum disease. It reduces oxidative stress, which can otherwise lead to gum and periodontal concerns.
Supports cardiovascular health
Camu camu is beneficial for heart health. It can improve blood pressure and promote better blood flow – helping protect the heart and arteries from diseases.
No comments:
Post a Comment