“Liver to cerebrum” – The harmful effects of a fatty liver on the brain

The link between our liver health and cognitive health is a fascinating area that is becoming increasingly important. New scientific findings suggest that the health of our liver also influences our cognitive health. This insight is significant because in Germany, one in four people over 40 is affected by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NFLA) and one in three overweight children already suffers from this disease – and the trend is rising. It is estimated that around 55 million Americans and Europeans will suffer from non-alcoholic liver inflammation by 2025. The good news is that simple lifestyle changes can not only protect our liver, but may also protect our brain from age-related deterioration.

The link between liver health and cognitive health

The idea that our liver has an influence on our brain may seem surprising at first. But research shows that the two organs may be closely linked. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is having an exponential impact on the global health burden, and it is currently gaining increasing interest in terms of its potential impact on central nervous system (CNS) disorders, particularly in relation to cognitive decline and dementia. Overall, current scientific research spans different levels. It investigates the putative proinflammatory mechanism of such dysmetabolic diseases that spread from the liver to multisystemic involvement.

Liver inflammation and brain function

Liver inflammation is associated with various liver diseases, such as fatty liver and liver cancer. However, the liver is also linked to the brain and triggers inflammation that can lead to cognitive decline. University of Oklahoma researcher Deepa Sathyaseelan recently received a $2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study the reasons for this interaction between the liver and brain and test methods to protect both organs. In particular, Sathyaseelan is studying necroptosis, a natural form of cell death with a downside: cells that die from necroptosis burst open and release substances that lead to inflammation. In a previously published study using an ageing mouse model, Sathyaseelan and her team showed that activation of necroptosis in the liver increased liver inflammation and, surprisingly, brain inflammation. These impaired the mice’s ability to build nests, a possible sign of cognitive impairment. “We hypothesize that when liver necroptosis is activated, the liver secretes toxic or inflammatory molecules that enter the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier, where they cause inflammation in the brain,” the researcher is quoted as saying on the University of Oklahoma portal. “This type of organ crosstalk is becoming increasingly important in research.

The causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs in children and adults as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle characterized by factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise and metabolic disorders. NAFLD is now the most common liver disease worldwide and is closely linked to obesity and insulin resistance.

Causes in children

NAFLD has increased alarmingly in children in recent decades. This is usually caused by a high-calorie, high-sugar and high-fat diet and a lack of exercise. Drinks containing fructose and highly processed foods are particularly risky. Fructose is broken down in the liver and converted into fat when the stores are full. Combined with low physical activity, this results in an overload of fat in the liver, which then leads to fatty liver. Genetic predispositions also play a role, for example if there are already known cases of NAFLD in the family. Overweight children with insulin resistance, which is often considered a precursor to type 2 diabetes, are particularly at risk.

Causes in adults

NAFLD develops similarly in adults, often in conjunction with the so-called metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, high blood pressure, increased blood lipids and insulin resistance. Here too, an unhealthy diet and a lack of exercise contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver. The fat is stored in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and, in the long term, to fibrosis or even cirrhosis. Stress and lack of sleep also affect the metabolism and contribute to the development of the disease.

Biochemical mechanisms

In both children and adults, a high calorie intake, insulin resistance and lipid metabolism disorders promote the storage of triglycerides in the liver. When the liver is increasingly overloaded, it can no longer adequately compensate for fat accumulation, which leads to cell damage and inflammation. Inflammation that obviously also has a negative impact on our brain health. These processes intensify if no countermeasures such as dietary changes or exercise are taken over a long period of time. This underlines the importance of an anti-inflammatory diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Lifestyle changes as prevention

The prevention of NAFLD in both children and adults lies in a balanced diet, regular exercise and the early treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders.

“Mens sana in Corpora sano” – the connection between a healthy mind in a healthy body doesn’t seem so new!

Practical tips to promote liver health

The good news is that there are many simple measures we can take to promote liver health and protect the brain. By making small adjustments to our diet and lifestyle, we can do a lot for our liver health.

Lifestyle changes for a healthy liver

To promote liver health, certain lifestyle changes are essential. Regular exercise, adequate sleep and avoiding alcohol and smoking are fundamental steps. Managing stress is also important, as chronic stress can lead to increased levels of inflammation. A balanced lifestyle can not only strengthen the liver, but also the brain. Another important aspect is avoiding obesity. A healthy body mass index (BMI) helps to reduce inflammation and supports liver function. A calorie-controlled diet combined with regular physical activity can help to maintain weight and promote liver health.

Food as medicine for liver health

Simple measures like curbing inflammation through diet and lifestyle can boost cognitive health and overall well-being. Here are simple tips on how to keep your liver healthy:

Anti-inflammatory foods for the liver

Certain foods are particularly effective at fighting inflammation and promoting liver health. These include:

• Berries: Rich in antioxidants that protect the cells.
• Green leafy vegetables: Provides important vitamins and minerals.
• Nuts: Contain healthy fats and vitamin E.
• Turmeric and ginger: well-known anti-inflammatory spices.

These foods can easily be integrated into the daily diet and help to keep the liver healthy and reduce inflammation.

Exercise and hydration as the key to liver health

Regular exercise not only supports general health, but also liver function. Exercise improves blood circulation and helps to burn off excess calories that could otherwise be stored in the liver. It is also important to drink enough water to support the liver in its detoxification work. Sufficient fluid intake promotes the removal of harmful substances from the body.

Tip: Set yourself the goal of drinking at least two liters of water a day. This will support your liver in its detoxification function.

Avoidance of harmful foods

To protect the liver, you should also avoid certain foods or only eat them in moderation. These include

• Alcohol: burdens the liver and can lead to liver damage.
• Sugary drinks and snacks: Can promote fatty liver formation.
• Processed foods: Often contain unhealthy fats and additives.

By avoiding these foods, you relieve the strain on your liver and support your long-term health.

Food is medicine!

A balanced diet is the key to promoting liver and brain health. It provides all the necessary nutrients the body needs to function optimally and reduce inflammation.

The best nutrients for a healthy liver and brain function

Certain nutrients are particularly important for a healthy liver and optimal brain function:

Nutrient	Benefits	Sources
Omega-3 fatty acids	Anti-inflammatory, supports cell health	Salmon, mackerel, walnuts
B vitamins	Promote brain function and energy production	Wholemeal products, pulses, eggs
Antioxidants	Protect cells from oxidative stress	Berries, green tea, dark chocolate

These nutrients can be easily absorbed through a varied and healthy diet.

Omega-3 fatty acids and their benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are very important for brain and liver health. They have an anti-inflammatory effect and support the integrity of cell membranes. Regular consumption of omega-3 supplements or omega-3 fatty acids from plant sources such as flaxseed and algae can help you meet your needs. Naturally fatty sea fish such as salmon and mackerel are particularly good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon from fish farms is generally not recommended. In addition, the larger and fattier the fish from the sea, the more they are contaminated with heavy metals.

Antioxidants and their protective effect

Antioxidants play an important role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. They neutralize free radicals that can cause cell damage. Berries, dark chocolate and green tea are particularly rich in antioxidants. Regular consumption of these foods – also in the form of food supplements – can promote liver and brain health and reduce the risk of degenerative diseases.

B vitamins for cognitive health

B vitamins are crucial for energy production and brain function. They support the formation of neurotransmitters and help to regulate homocysteine levels in the blood, which is important for cardiovascular health. An adequate supply of B vitamins can reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in old age. Good sources of B vitamins are whole grain products, meat, eggs and green leafy vegetables.

Liver and brain – a strong team

The health of our liver has a direct impact on the function of our brain. By eating an anti-inflammatory diet and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, we can protect not only our liver but also our brain. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins into our diet is an effective way to support both liver and brain health. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference and help us stay mentally fit as we age. Then you can follow your Longevity Plan too, because growing old with a clear mind is fun!