Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), also known as ursodiol, is a bile acid commonly used for liver and gallbladder-related conditions. Here are some of its key benefits:
Liver Health Benefits
1. Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC):
- UDCA is the first-line treatment for PBC, a chronic liver disease that damages bile ducts.
- It slows disease progression, improves liver function, and increases survival rates.
2. Gallstone Dissolution:
- Helps dissolve small cholesterol-based gallstones in patients who cannot undergo surgery.
3. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) & NASH:
- May improve liver enzyme levels and reduce liver inflammation.
4. Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP):
- Used to manage bile flow and reduce itching in pregnant women with ICP.
5. Cystic Fibrosis-Related Liver Disease:
- Helps protect the liver from bile acid toxicity in cystic fibrosis patients.
Protective and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
6. Cytoprotective Action:
- Reduces oxidative stress and prevents bile acid toxicity to liver cells.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
- Lowers inflammation in bile ducts and liver tissue.
Other Potential Benefits
8. Improved Cholesterol Metabolism:
- Reduces cholesterol absorption and secretion into bile, lowering gallstone formation risk.
9. Gut Microbiome Modulation:
- May positively influence gut bacteria and reduce gut-related inflammation.
10. Neuroprotective Effects:
- Some studies suggest UDCA may have benefits in neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and Parkinson’s.
These benefits highlight UDCA’s role in managing liver health and related conditions, though its use should always be under medical supervision due to potential side effects and individual health considerations.