Liver inflammation and fibrosis associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have become a focus of attention as the number of overweight people continues to grow. Recent research from Oregon State University (OSU) found that a specific omega-3 fatty acid has a potent role in preventing potential NASH liver inflammation and fibrosis in obese people. The study, published online in the Journal of Nutrition, is the first to directly compare the effects of two omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), which are commonly used as nutritional supplements. Animal studies found that EPA prevented very little fibrosis or scarring associated with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), while DHA reduced liver fibrosis-forming proteins by >65%. NASH is a progressive form of liver disease associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress due to excess fat storage in the liver. Chronic inflammation can eventually lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Whereas lifestyle management, including weight loss and exercise, is one way to control the progression of fatty liver disease, others include preventive and therapeutic approaches. About 30% to 40% of NAFLD patients will progress to NASH, which will further lead to cirrhosis and also become a major risk factor for liver cancer. This study examined the prevention of fatty liver disease. For his part, lead researcher Jump, a professor at OSU’s College of Public Health and Human Sciences, said that further research is needed on the therapeutic effects of DHA on NASH. The researchers concluded, “DHA was more effective than EPA in ameliorating inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and liver injury. Based on these results, DHA may be a more attractive dietary supplement than EPA in the prevention and treatment of potential NASH in obese populations.”