The effect of weight loss diet with and without Hydroxy citric acid supplement derived from Garcinia Cambogia on the serum hepcidin level and liver function in women with NAFLD: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is recognized as the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Findings from epidemiological studies indicate that the disease is associated with obesity. So, Current therapeutic strategies in management of NAFLD is focused on weight loss. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of hydroxycitric acid supplementation on serum hepcidin level and liver function in women with NAFLD. Materials and Methods: This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 40 patients with NAFLD were randomly assigned to the control group (n = 20) who only received the weight loss regimen for two months and the intervention (n = 20), which included a weight loss regimen with 6 daily supplement tablets Hydroxycitric acid extracted from Garcinia Cambogia was given two half hours before each meal. Blood samples (7 cc) were taken from all subjects at the beginning and the end of the study to determine the serum level of hepcidin and liver enzymes. Ultrasonography was performed on all subjects before and after the study. Anthropometric measurements, an appetite questionnaire, a physical activity level questionnaire and 24 hour recall food frequency questionnaire three times in month was also completed. Results: Although all of the anthropometric indices decrease in both groups, there was a significant reduction in HCA group upon weight, hip circumference, and waist circumference. There was a just significant reduction in waist circumference in control group. Serum hepcidin level increased in both groups but not significant. Liver enzymes increased in HCA group but they decreased in control group. Conclusion: Low weight diet