Grape seed extract to improve liver function in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver change

Saudi J Gastroenterol. 2010 Jul-Sep;16(3):194-7. doi: 10.4103/1319-3767.65197.

Abstract

Background/aim: Therapeutic interventions in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are limited, while anti-oxidative materials have shown benefits in animal models. This study aimed to evaluate grape seed extract as an anti-oxidative material in this process. Therapeutic effects of grape seed extract were evaluated in comparison to vitamin C in a double-blind setting.

Materials and methods: Fifteen patients were enrolled in each group. Liver function tests were done; also, grade of steatosis and pattern of echogenicity of the liver were determined. Patients were followed up by the same evaluation repeated in first, second and third months.

Results: Mean age +/- standard deviation was 43.2 +/- 10.3 years. Grape seed extract (GSE) significantly improved the grade of fatty liver change; and resulted in significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase in patients receiving the concentrate compared to those receiving vitamin C independently, from the initial grade of steatosis.

Conclusions: This study describes the beneficial effect of using grape seed extract for three months in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. These results may improve with a longer period of follow-up.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alanine Transaminase / metabolism
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Ascorbic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Fatty Liver / drug therapy*
  • Fatty Liver / enzymology
  • Female
  • Grape Seed Extract / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Male
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Grape Seed Extract
  • Alanine Transaminase
  • Ascorbic Acid