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Are Your Supplements Secretly Harming Your Liver?
Published: Nov 07, 2023
Herbal and dietary supplements are popular, but they could be damaging your liver without you knowing. Let's explore how these 'natural' products might not be as safe as you think.
Herbal Supplements and Liver Damage
Herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) are widely used for health improvement, but many are associated with liver damage. While considered natural, these products can have biological activity that may lead to severe liver injury. Many people do not report their use of HDS to healthcare providers, increasing the risk of unrecognized liver toxicity.
The Role of Regulation
Regulatory guidelines for herbal supplements in the U.S. are less stringent than for pharmaceuticals. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) requires manufacturers to ensure product safety, but significant discrepancies can exist between labels and actual contents. Adulteration and contamination are common issues.
Spotlight on Specific Herbs
Certain herbs like Kava, Green Tea Extract, and Germander have been frequently reported for causing liver damage. These products can lead to symptoms ranging from elevated liver enzymes to acute liver failure. Despite their natural origins, these herbs pose significant health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Liver damage is a frequent adverse reaction to herbal supplements.
Yes, but the regulations are less strict compared to pharmaceuticals.
Kava, Green Tea Extract, and Germander are known to be hepatotoxic.
People use them for health improvement and maintenance.
Key Takeaways
Considering the potential risks, is it time to rethink your use of herbal supplements?
References
- Smith T, May G, Eckl V, Reynolds CM. US Sales of Herbal Supplements Increase by 8.6% in 2019.
- Navarro VJ, Khan I, Björnsson E, et al. Liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements.
- Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, Public Law 103-417.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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