Effect of Ketone Ester Drinks on Liver Fat and Blood Sugar Control in Adults with Overweight or Obesity and MASLD

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether drinking a ketone ester beverage can improve liver health and blood sugar control in adolescents and young adults with overweight or obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease MASLD. MASLD is linked to insulin resistance, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and increased risk of diabetes and heart disease. This phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of ketone ester supplementation on liver fat and metabolic function. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups one group consumes 25 grams of a C8 ketone di-ester drink daily, and the other group consumes a placebo drink daily. Both treatments last for about six weeks. The ketone ester used is designed to be palatable and sodium-free, producing ketone precursors that the liver converts into beta-hydroxybutyrate, a type of ketone. This study assesses the impact of daily ketone ester use on liver fat content and blood glucose control compared to placebo during the six-week treatment period. Throughout the study, participants undergo assessments before and after the six-week treatment to measure liver fat using MRI, insulin sensitivity, beta-cell function, and glucose tolerance. Researchers will monitor changes in intrahepatic triglyceride content and metabolic markers. Safety measures include careful participant screening and follow-up to evaluate the treatment impact. The total study duration extends until the end of 2027, with primary outcomes evaluated at six weeks.

Effect of Ketone Esters on Liver Fat Content and Metabolic Function