Mixed
Circulating choline levels are positively associated with NAFLD severity in clinical patients, but this association is largely mediated by TMAO levels.
Choline is an essential nutrient found in eggs and meat. However, if you have NAFLD, high levels of choline might be converted by your gut bacteria into TMAO, which is linked to worse liver fat. It's not about eliminating choline, but being mindful of sources high in choline and carnitine (like red meat) and focusing on overall liver health.
The associations of choline with the steatosis, NAS and inflammation scores were attenuated to non- or marginally significant levels [after adjusting for TMAO].
Why this rating
Observational data shows mediation by TMAO.
Source
Associations of gut-flora-dependent metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide, betaine and choline with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults
Yu‐Ming Chen et al. · Scientific Reports · 2016
DOI 10.1038/srep19076
More from this paper
- Higher circulating levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) are independently associated with the presence and severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Moderate
- Higher circulating levels of betaine are associated with a lower severity of NAFLD, suggesting a protective or favorable relationship.Moderate
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