Lifestyle habits and self-care steps — such as reaching a healthy weight, eating well and staying active — are the most effective ways to manage metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Vitamins and supplements can't cure MASLD, and they're not a substitute for healthy habits. But researchers are exploring how certain vitamins and supplements might support liver health when used alongside lifestyle changes.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means it's a nutrient that may help protect cells against damage. Research suggests that in people who have MASLD, vitamin E may boost the liver's natural antioxidants, help reduce liver inflammation and scarring, and help prevent fat buildup. However, more information is needed to confirm these findings.

If you're interested in taking vitamin E for MASLD, talk with your healthcare professional first. Vitamin E is not safe for everyone. For instance, it's not recommended for people with serious liver scarring or type 2 diabetes.

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams (mg). A vitamin E-only supplement is more likely to contain about 67 mg of the vitamin. If taking a vitamin E supplement is right for you, your healthcare professional can recommend the best dose.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that can relieve inflammation and support the immune system. Fish oil is a dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. Research on omega-3 fatty acids and MASLD is mixed. Some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce liver fat and may slow or even reverse MASLD scarring. Other studies haven't found a strong connection between omega-3s and liver inflammation or scarring.

Natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids are best. These include fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, walnuts, some seeds, and leafy green vegetables. If you don't get enough omega-3s through your diet, ask your healthcare team about taking supplements.

Beta carotene

Beta carotene is an antioxidant that's stored mainly in the liver. It's found in foods such as tomatoes, watermelon, mango, pumpkin and pineapple. People with a BMI over 40 and MASLD often have lower beta carotene levels than do those who don't have MASLD.

Some research suggests that beta carotene may help protect liver cells from damage, reduce scarring and improve inflammation. But more research is needed.

Lycopene

Lycopene is best known as the antioxidant found in tomatoes. It's also in fruits such as apricots, melons, peaches, pink grapefruit and papaya.

Lycopene is a strong antioxidant that may lower the risk of MASLD and reduce liver fat and inflammation. Some research has seen a connection between lycopene and scarring reversal. But more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Curcumin

Curcumin is an antioxidant found in turmeric. Research suggests that curcumin may reduce liver inflammation, fat and scarring. But more research is needed.

What about 'liver cleanses' or 'liver detox' products?

Though it can be tempting to try a supplement that promises to clean or "detox" the liver, using this type of supplement usually isn't a good idea. Some supplements that claim to help the liver can actually harm it. And while others, such as milk thistle, are generally safe, they haven't proved effective for improving liver health.

The best way to keep your liver healthy is to adopt good self-care practices.

Keep your healthcare team informed

Tell your healthcare team about all supplements you take, even if you think they're safe. Make sure you closely follow dosing guidelines.

And remember: While the vitamins and supplements listed above may be able to improve liver health in people with MASLD, they are not a cure. Taking vitamins and supplements for liver health should only be done under the advice of your healthcare team as part of your care plan — and not as a replacement for it.

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Oct. 08, 2025 了解更多深度信息