Health
Supplements That Could Harm Your Liver According to New Research
Every year, Americans invest around $13 billion in natural supplements, seeking their reputed health benefits. While these herbal supplements promise solutions for various ailments, recent research raises concerns about their safety, particularly regarding liver health. Here, we delve into six popular supplements that may pose risks to your liver.
Turmeric
Turmeric is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to alleviate joint pain and improve digestion. However, studies indicate it may also be hepatotoxic. According to Dr. Alisa Likhitsup, “Potentially hepatotoxic botanical products are the products that contain plant-based ingredients which have been implicated as potential causes of liver damage.”
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is popular for its antioxidant benefits and weight loss properties. Yet, its concentrated form can be harmful. The study highlights that “chemical analyses of HDS products associated with confirmed liver toxic effects show frequent discrepancies between product labels and detected ingredients.”
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is known for its stress-relief and energy-boosting benefits. Despite its popularity, it has been flagged for potential liver toxicity. Dr. Likhitsup notes, “How these products cause liver damage is not yet known but it is likely due to metabolism that occurs in the liver after the products were consumed.”
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice is commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. However, it may also pose risks to liver health. The lack of regulation for these supplements is concerning. “A new HDS product doesn’t need FDA approval before hitting shelves,” the study points out, which researchers claim is problematic.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is often used to manage menopausal symptoms but has been linked to liver toxicity. The study’s findings underscore the need for caution. “As a practicing hepatologist, I have seen patients who had liver injury from taking dietary supplements and some were fatal which required emergency liver transplant,” shares Dr. Likhitsup.
Kava
Kava is used for its calming effects and to reduce anxiety. Despite its soothing reputation, it has been implicated in liver damage cases. The study emphasizes that these supplements “aren’t regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” allowing companies to market them without stringent oversight.
The research underscores the importance of being cautious with herbal supplements. While they are marketed as natural and safe, they can carry significant risks, particularly to liver health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your regimen.
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