For several years, Japanese scientists have investigated a condition known as TGCV.
In this disease, the fat substance triglyceride builds up inside cells in the heart and blood vessels, according to SciTechDaily.
The condition is seen especially in people with diabetes and patients undergoing dialysis. It can be difficult to detect because it resembles ordinary atherosclerosis.
Supplement tested
The study published in the European Heart Journal examined the dietary supplement tricaprin, which is sold in Japan.
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The supplement is believed to help the body break down fat within the heart’s cells.
Two patients in their 60s with diabetes and severe chest pain took part in the trial. Their condition had not responded well to existing treatments.
After several months of using tricaprin, both patients experienced fewer symptoms. Scans also showed reduced fat accumulation in their blood vessels.
Possible change in treatment
The researchers stress that the findings are based on only two patients. Larger studies are therefore needed before the treatment can be used more widely.
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A new clinical trial involving a tricaprin-based treatment has already been completed in Japan.
What makes the results particularly notable is that the researchers believe the supplement may not only relieve symptoms.
It may also have helped reduce the narrowing of the blood vessels themselves by improving the body’s ability to break down fat inside cells.
Sources: SciTechDaily and European Heart Journal.
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