Sorbitol fuels dangerous fatty liver disease in lab study
Key Points
- Study links sorbitol to fatty liver in lab tests. This happened when gut bacteria were weakened by antibiotics.
- Sorbitol appears to travel to the liver without breakdown. Healthy gut microbes normally stop that harm from occurring.
- Scientists warn many sugar-free products contain sorbitol daily. People with weak microbiomes may face higher risk.
Scientists warn a common sweetener may help cause serious liver disease. A new study in Science Signalling links sorbitol to MASLD in lab tests.
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How the gut blocks sorbitol
Researchers studied zebrafish and found harm when gut bacteria were depleted. ValidUpdates recently reported Turkish court rules Instagram likes this week.
The team gave antibiotics to reduce gut bacteria in the fish. After this change, sorbitol reached the liver and caused fat buildup.
Normally gut microbes break down sorbitol before it reaches the liver. Loss of that shield let sorbitol travel and harm liver cells.
The authors warn human gut damage could cause the same effect. They call for more study of sorbitol in real diets soon.
What this means for shoppers
The condition MASLD affects many people and often has no symptoms today. Experts say gut health is a rising focus for liver care too.
Public health groups may now reevaluate sorbitol safety in food. See recent commentary on lifestyle and health at Eedris Abdulkareem urges men to marry.
Researchers call for human studies to confirm the zebrafish findings..Until then, people should consider gut health when choosing sweeteners.
Clinicians may start screening patients for gut microbiome problems more often. Simple diet changes and probiotics might help restore gut bacteria.
Food makers could face pressure to label sorbitol content clearly. Regulators may review safety rules for sugar-free additives and sweeteners.
Researchers urge people to avoid unnecessary antibiotics when possible today. That could help keep the microbiome strong and protective against sorbitol.
The study used zebrafish because their liver biology mirrors ours. But scientists note human trials are needed for firm conclusions.
For now, experts recommend varied diets rich in fibre and fermented foods. These foods help feed beneficial gut bacteria and reduce risk.
Public advice may include checking product labels for sorbitol content today. Consumers can choose alternatives with less sugar alcohols when available or advised.
Health groups will watch for follow-up human studies and guidance. News outlets and regulators will likely report new findings quickly to the public
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