howtosupplement
Digestion/Weight/Cognition

TUDCA

Bile acid supplement studied for insulin sensitivity and fat digestion, most relevant for people with metabolic or bile flow issues.

TUDCA

TUDCA

45
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01Improves insulin sensitivity
02Supports fat digestion
03May improve liver enzyme levels
04May lower inflammatory markers
05May support cognitive function

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid sodium salt)
Avoid
  • Unconjugated UDCA (poorer water solubility, different pharmacokinetics)
Expert Note

TUDCA is more water-soluble than unconjugated UDCA, facilitating interaction with phospholipids during digestion. The sodium salt is the standard supplemental form and offers better stability and upper digestive tract absorption than free bile acids.

Protocol

Amount
500-1750 mg
Frequency
Once or twice daily
When
With meals containing fat to support digestion; for metabolic effects, split into two doses with breakfast and dinner.

Condition-Based Dosing

Obese adults with insulin resistance
1750 mg daily for 4 weeks under medical supervision
Post-cholecystectomy digestive support
300-500 mg daily with fat-containing meals

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
1750 mg/day (highest studied in short-term trials; no established IOM UL)
Cycling
8 weeks on, 4 weeks off to preserve endogenous bile acid synthesis.

Contraindications

Obstructive gallbladder disease or bile duct obstruction — may worsen blockage
Cholestyramine or bile acid sequestrants — pharmacological antagonism
Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient safety data

Synergies

Omega-3

Bile acids improve emulsification and absorption of fat-soluble and fatty acid supplements.

Avoid Combining With

  • ✕Bile acid sequestrants like cholestyramine (binds TUDCA in gut, separate by 4+ hours)
  • ✕High-dose fiber supplements (may reduce bile acid reabsorption)
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