Latest news with #NAFLD
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SciSparc-Clearmind Collaboration Leads to Filing of International Patent Application for Novel Combination Therapy Targeting Weight Loss and Fatty Liver Disease
TEL AVIV, Israel, July 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SciSparc Ltd. (Nasdaq: SPRC) ("Company" or "SciSparc"), a specialty clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focusing on the development of therapies to treat disorders and rare diseases of the central nervous system, announced today that its collaboration with Clearmind Medicine Inc. (Nasdaq: CMND) ('Clearmind') has led to the filing of a new international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty. The application covers its innovative combination therapy of 5-methoxy-2-aminoindane and N-Acylethanolamines (MEAI) and Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). This proprietary combination is designed to address two significant global health challenges: obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). According to the World Health Organization, obesity affects over 890 million people worldwide and is a leading risk factor for a range of chronic conditions. Meanwhile, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is closely linked to metabolic disorders and poor long-term outcomes, is estimated to impact more than 30% of the global adult population, according to the article titled 'Global incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 63 studies and 1,201,807 persons,' published in August 2023. Despite the scale of these problems, treatment options remain limited. According to Clearmind, the novel approach has the potential to offer a safe and effective therapeutic alternative, leveraging the unique pharmacological profile of MEAI alongside the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of PEA. This latest development adds to multiple patent applications already filed in the U.S. and other countries as part of the ongoing SciSparc-Clearmind collaboration. About SciSparc Ltd. (Nasdaq: SPRC): SciSparc Ltd. is a specialty clinical-stage pharmaceutical company led by an experienced team of senior executives and scientists. SciSparc's focus is on creating and enhancing a portfolio of technologies and assets based on cannabinoid pharmaceuticals. With this focus, the Company is currently engaged in the following drug development programs based on THC and/or non-psychoactive cannabidiol: SCI-110 for the treatment of Tourette Syndrome, for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and agitation; and SCI-210 for the treatment of autism and status epilepticus. The Company also owns a controlling interest in a subsidiary whose business focuses on the sale of hemp seeds' oil-based products on the Marketplace. About Clearmind Medicine Inc. (Nasdaq: CMND) (FSE: CWY) Clearmind is a clinical-stage psychedelic pharmaceutical biotech company focused on the discovery and development of novel psychedelic-derived therapeutics to solve widespread and underserved health problems, including alcohol use disorder. Its primary objective is to research and develop psychedelic-based compounds and attempt to commercialize them as regulated medicines, foods or supplements. Clearmind's intellectual portfolio currently consists of 19 patent families including 31 granted patents. For further information visit: Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. For example, the Company is using forward looking statements when discussing the potential benefits and advantages of the new patent application, that this proprietary combination is designed to address two significant global health challenges: obesity and MASLD, and that it has the potential to offer a safe and effective therapeutic alternative, leveraging the unique pharmacological profile of MEAI alongside the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of PEA. Since such statements deal with future events and are based on SciSparc's current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties and actual results, performance or achievements of SciSparc could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in SciSparc's Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC') on April 24, 2025, and in subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, SciSparc disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise. Investor Contact:IR@ +972-3-6167055Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
I barely touch even a drop of alcohol but I was diagnosed with liver disease - this is what I'm doing to reverse it
A woman diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in her thirties has revealed the steps she is taking to try and reverse the disease—and they're all related to her diet. NAFLD is caused by a build-up of fat in the liver, and is usually diagnosed in people who are overweight or obese. However, while liver disease is usually associated with heavy drinking, excessive alcohol consumption is not a cause for NAFLD, it is primarily connected to lifestyle factors—and that means it can be reversed. Niki Nash, 36, from Swansea in Wales, posted a video to her TikTok account @nikkin1988, listing the foods she is cutting out in the hopes of getting her liver back to full health. She told her 27,700 followers: 'Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is just a build up of fat in your liver. 'It's nothing to do with alcohol. Hence, by the name, however, limiting or reducing alcohol completely will help. 'This is usually found in people who are overweight to I'm not classed as overweight or obese. Mine is all to do with my diet. 'So to reverse the condition, you need to limit salt, you need to limit fat, such as processed food, takeaways, McDonald's, etc, and eliminate sugar from your diet as much as possible. 'This is probably my biggest factor of why I've got the disease I am addicted to sugar.' Alongside making vital changes to her diet she, she has also taken up doing 30 minutes of daily exercise. This she said: 'It will significantly increase the chances of it being reversed.' She added: 'And if you smoke, stop smoking, because that doesn't help either.' Her final tip for other people with a NAFLD diagnosis was to increase their fruit and vegetable intake—something which Chinese researchers previously found can help reverse the condition. In the video she added: 'There isn't any medication that you can take to help. Either, it's just all through a diet, health and lifestyle.' Replying to one follower, she said that she was diagnosed after having a liver function test (LFT) and ultrasound, and that she also has an autoimmune condition which affects the organ. While early stage NAFLD does not usually cause any harm, it can lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis if it gets worse. The potentially life-threatening later stage condition cirrhosis is when the organ is scarred, resulting in permanent damage. After posting the video, she received lots of comments from social media users going through similar experiences. One user said: 'I've just been told I've got a fatty liver when investigating something else. 'I blame my lack of inactivity and diet since switching to working from home. I just switched my diet up and now waiting...' Another user commented: 'I have NAFLD not been told what stage it is. Mine was incidental finding on an ultrasound scan. I've done lifestyle changes like you guys.' Meanwhile a third wrote: 'I'm due a scan this weekend. I've lost nearly six stone since I was told, fingers crossed this helps.' A fourth user said: 'I'm eating loads of veg, salad, fruit, chicken, tuna and wholemeal bread, [and] sugar free jelly. 'I'm three stone down since Dec awaiting a date my next scan, hopefully before Dec again.' They are among millions of people in the UK living with the condition in its early stages, which affects one in five people. Early signs include a dull or aching pain in the top right side of the tummy, extreme tiredness, unexplained weight loss and weakness. If you have cirrhosis, you can get more severe symptoms like the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (jaundice). Other signs of the late stage of the condition are itchy skin as well as swelling in the legs, ankles, feet or tummy. The condition is often diagnosed after a blood test called a liver function test, but they don't always pick up NAFLD. It may also be spotted during an ultrasound, as described by some of the social media users. If you've been diagnosed with NAFLD, further tests may be needed to determine which stage you have. This can be a special blood test or having another type of ultrasound scan such as a Fibroscan. It follows a recent study that revealed the proportion of liver cancers linked to NAFLD also known as MASH is expected to more than double, from 5 per cent in 2022 to 11 per cent in 2050. Meanwhile the number of cases caused the most common cause of the deadly disease—the hepatitis B virus—are set to decline. Concerningly the researchers predicted that new liver cancer cases worldwide will jump from 870,000 in 2022 to 1.52 million by 2050. And annual deaths from the disease are set to rise from 760,000 to 1.37 million over the same period.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Fatty Liver: Can apple cider vinegar improve liver health?
Fatty liver disease, particularly Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is a growing health concern, affecting an estimated 30.2% of the world's population. Prevalence varies by region, with rates above 40% in the Americas and Southeast Asia. What exactly is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)? Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, not caused by heavy alcohol consumption. It's often linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of conditions, from simple fat buildup (NAFL) to more serious inflammation and scarring (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, or may even lead to liver cancer. Now, among many other home remedies that claim natural fixes for fatty liver, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular one. Rich is acetic acid, ACV is frequently touted for its ability to boost metabolism and manage weight. Could this kitchen staple really reduce liver fat and support liver function? Could Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) help with fatty liver? Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice. It's created through a two-step fermentation process, first converting apple juice into alcohol and then into acetic acid, the main component responsible for its sour taste and potential health benefits. Now, multiple animal studies indicate that vinegar, including ACV, helps reduce liver fat and improve metabolic markers: A 2025 study on rainbow trout with NAFLD showed that low-concentration ACV (≈ 2%) significantly reduced steatosis, triglycerides, and enzyme markers (ALT, AST). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Learn More - How Donating Sperm May Boost Your Income SpellRock Undo However, higher doses (≈ 4%) worsened the condition. In rodent models fed a high-fat diet, ACV led to reduced liver fat, improved insulin resistance (lower HOMA‑IR), better lipid profiles, and lowered glucose levels. Liver enzyme levels improved as steatosis decreased from ~56% to ~20% in some studies. These studies suggest that acetic acid in ACV may enhance fat oxidation and reduce metabolic stress. However, these benefits are documented only in animals, not humans. Human research regarding ACV is much more limited. According to a 2021 review of studies , ACV may help decrease cholesterol and fasting glucose. Based on this, apple cider may indirectly help fatty liver disease. However, more research is needed on any direct relationship between apple cider vinegar and fatty liver disease. ACV: Potential benefits and real limitations Possible metabolic support: ACV's acetic acid may help regulate blood glucose and lipid metabolism, especially when combined with calorie control and weight loss efforts. However, the risks weigh heavier. Excessive ACV use can cause tooth enamel erosion, gingival burns, low potassium levels, and digestive discomfort. It can also interact with insulin or diuretic medications, so moderation is crucial. The recommended amount of intake is no more than about 1–2 tablespoons daily, diluted in water. Furthermore, health professionals caution against viewing ACV as a cure, stressing that it's a supplement, not a treatment. How to safely incorporate ACV in your daily diet If you want to try diluted apple cider vinegar: Use raw, unfiltered ACV (with 'the mother') and dilute each tablespoon in a full glass of water. Limit intake to 1–2 tablespoons per day, especially during periods longer than 12 weeks. Take after meals, not on an empty stomach. Rinse your mouth afterward or drink through a straw to protect the tooth enamel. Monitor for side effects: gastrointestinal upset, acid reflux, or electrolyte imbalance. Seek medical advice if you take diabetes or potassium-affecting medications. The information presented in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No part of this content should be construed as medical advice. If you believe you have fatty liver disease or any other medical condition, consult a professional healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle. "Unhealthy Lifestyle Damaging Liver Health
NDTV
3 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
"Drinking Alcohol Isn't The Only Cause": Nutritionist Shares Silent Causes And Symptoms Of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Feeling bloated, nauseous, tired, or sluggish most of the time? Having constipation or distention issues? Nutritionist Anjali Mukherjee reveals that these symptoms can be significant indications of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). But going by common assumptions, many believe that fatty liver disease only affects those who drink alcohol. Contrary to this notion, the nutritionist guides, "One of the most common silent conditions we see today is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-and as the name suggests, it has nothing to do with alcohol." Watch the reel here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anjali Mukerjee (@anjalimukerjee) In an Instagram video, Anjali Mukherjee explains, "So you don't need to drink alcohol to get fatty liver. You can get fatty liver minus the alcohol. It is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease." So, what can trigger it? The nutritionist shares, "It happens when you drink too much of fruit juice, sweetened beverages, eat a lot of dessert, eat a lot of refined carbs, a lot of chocolatey and sweet things all the time," adding, "When you just overeat, you get fatty liver." Anjali Mukherjee also explains what fatty liver basically is: "When fat builds up within the liver cells, it's called fatty liver." But how do you know you have fatty liver? According to the nutritionist, you may not know right away, but your body will whisper certain symptoms that can indicate it. She mentions, "You feel nauseous, you feel tired, you feel sluggish, you don't feel yourself, and there is a problem with the digestion. You feel bloated, and there is a lot of distension. You may be constipated as well. And of course, when you do a blood test, the liver enzymes may have risen. Taking ordinary medicines causes you a lot of nausea at that point, and you feel there is something wrong most of the time." What is the solution? Anjali writes, "Your liver is telling you it's overwhelmed." Cut refined carbs Start gentle detox Move your body every day Support your liver with herbs like milk thistle "NAFLD is reversible when treated at the root," she concludes the video on a positive note.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Liver Cancer: Obesity-related liver cancer cases to rise over 10% by 2050; Here's how to prevent it
The latest health warning regarding liver cancer has arrived with grim news and a hopeful silver lining. According to data published in the Lancet Commission on Liver Cancer , the number of new liver cancer cases is expected to increase from 870,000 in 2022 to 1.52 million in 2050, with obesity being the key contributing factor behind the surge. At the same time, deaths from liver cancer are set to rise from 760,000 to 1.37 million, making it one of the fastest-growing causes of cancer-related death worldwide. That's the alarming backdrop behind the growing toll of obesity-related liver cancer, especially metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as NAFLD. However, the same study has also revealed that at least 60% of liver cancers could be preventable: lifestyle changes, vaccination, early detection, and public policy could avert up to 17 million cases and save 15 million lives by mid-century. Obesity's role in liver cancer: What does the study say The recent Lancet Commission report highlights MASLD, fatty liver linked to metabolic dysfunction, as a rapidly growing cause of liver cancer. The share of cases tied to MASLD (specifically MASH, the inflammatory form) is projected to rise from 8% in 2022 to 11% by 2050. Earlier meta-analyses show that higher BMI significantly increases liver cancer risk, with hazard ratios up to 3.1 in people with obesity versus healthy weight. In fact, years of data reveal that in men and women, roughly 28% of liver cancer cases are attributable to excess weight. DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) tied to high BMI surged globally from 292,700 in 1990 to over 1.2 million by 2021, a nearly 323% increase. The trend, as per research , is particularly steep in middle and low-middle social development index regions, where metabolic risk factors are accelerating faster than public health responses. The projected rise: What the numbers warn us The Lancet Commission projects nearly 1.52 million liver cancer cases by 2050, with deaths increasing from about 760,000 in 2022 to 1.37 million. Another major modeling study, published in Nature last year, put new cases at around 1.39 million by 2040, a 54% rise from 2020 levels. This rise is being propelled by avoidable risk factors: obesity, alcohol use, and viral hepatitis. While hepatitis-related cases are expected to decline slightly, obesity-linked liver cancers are on the rise across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. What is liver cancer? Liver cancer is a disease where malignant (cancerous) cells develop in the liver. It can be either primary liver cancer, which originates in the liver, or secondary liver cancer, which spreads to the liver from another part of the body. The most common type of primary liver cancer in adults is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). There are several types of liver cancer: Primary liver cancer: Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, originating in hepatocytes (main liver cells). Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Develops in the bile ducts within the liver. Angiosarcoma/Hemangiosarcoma: Rare, fast-growing cancers originating in the liver's blood vessels. Hepatoblastoma: A rare type primarily affecting children. Secondary liver cancer: Cancers that spread to the liver from other organs, like the colon, lung, or breast. Risk factors: Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer. These include chronic hepatitis B and C infections, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals like aflatoxins. Additionally, conditions like cirrhosis, inherited liver diseases, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can also elevate the risk. Lifestyle factors like heavy alcohol consumption and smoking are associated with a higher risk of liver cancer, often leading to cirrhosis and potentially causing HCC. Besides, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), where fat accumulates in the liver without excessive alcohol use, are also linked to increased liver cancer risk. Why is liver cancer so deadly? Liver cancer is often deadly due to a combination of factors, including late-stage diagnosis, limited treatment options, and the liver's vital role in the body. Many cases are discovered after the cancer has already spread, and the liver's complex function makes treatment challenging. Moreover, liver cancer is highly aggressive, especially once MASLD progresses to MASH (steatohepatitis) and then cirrhosis or carcinoma, and there are only limited treatment options for liver cancer, with 5-year survival rates generally under 30%. As per research, three in five liver cancer cases are linked to preventable risk factors, and global prevention strategies could reduce incidence rates annually by 2–5%, averting millions of cases and deaths. Experts' take Professor Jian Zhou of Fudan University, who chaired the study, emphasized the need for global action. 'Liver cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to treat, with five-year survival rates ranging from just 5% to 30%. Without urgent action, we risk seeing a near-doubling of cases and deaths in just 25 years,' he told NBC News. Professor Stephen Chan from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, lead author of the study, echoed this sentiment, saying, 'Three in five liver cancer cases are caused by preventable risk factors, mainly viral hepatitis, alcohol, and obesity. This presents a huge opportunity to intervene, save lives, and reduce healthcare burdens worldwide.' Prevention: Lifestyle choices that could make a difference Despite the concerning projected rise, one of the most highlighted findings from the Commission: 60% of liver cancer cases are preventable. Small steps go a long way and pave the path for liver cancer prevention. Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle: Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, as recommended by the World Cancer Research Fund. Regular physical activity, as little as 30 minutes a day, can help manage weight, reduce inflammation, and improve liver health. Screening and early detection: Individuals with obesity, diabetes, hypertension, or elevated liver enzymes should get regular check-ups. Early detection of MASLD or MASH enables intervention before progression to cancer. Vaccination against Hepatitis B (and HCV management): Universal HBV vaccination, especially at birth, has dramatically reduced virus-linked liver cancer. While no HCV vaccine is available yet, antiviral treatments significantly lower the risk for infected individuals. Limit alcohol and sugary drink intake: Alcohol is a known carcinogen tied to about 19% of global liver cancer deaths; excess sugars and processed foods fuel obesity and fatty liver, both risk multipliers. Weight loss interventions for high BMI: For individuals with Class II obesity or metabolic syndrome, interventions from dietary change to bariatric surgery may reduce MASLD and liver cancer risk. Surgery has shown about 92% resolution of steatosis in many cases. Breast Self-exam: Right way to check for lumps and other changes
