Fruits and nuts rich in ellagic acid may help protect the liver from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and could even reverse some of the damage it causes.

According to a report published by Medical Xpress, consuming common soluble fiber supplements on their own may actually worsen the condition.

A doctor noted that the study was conducted on mice, where scientists examined the impact of ellagic acid on the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe form of NAFLD. They also tested the effects of inulin—a widely used soluble fiber known for its prebiotic benefits in supporting gut health.

“We found that ellagic acid, present in pomegranates, berries, grapes, and walnuts, helps protect the liver from disease. It is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties,” he said.

However, contrary to expectations, consuming inulin without ellagic acid led to unwanted weight gain, elevated blood sugar levels, and increased liver damage.

The doctor stressed that this effect is linked to an imbalance in gut bacteria, a hallmark of NAFLD. When combined with ellagic acid, the negative effects of inulin were reduced.

“These findings highlight the importance of diet—not just what we eat, but how different nutrients interact within the body,” he added.