Newswise — You hear the ads all the time for liver supplements. They claim to help detoxify your body’s largest organ – the liver – which acts as the body’s primary processing and purification plant, playing a crucial role in metabolism, digestion, detoxification, and overall health.
Millions may be turning to these over-the-counter products because they promise enhanced detoxification and improved liver health. But research actually shows these unregulated supplements may do more harm than good, potentially leading to liver damage, drug interactions, and other serious health complications.
“The liver supplement market may be booming, with consumers spending millions on these products,” says Dr. Rosario Ligresti, chief of Gastroenterology at Hackensack University Medical Center. “With little scientific backing, and a lack of regulation over the supplement industry, I’m concerned about the potential dangers of some of these products.”
Potential health dangers that may include:
- A lack of regulation within the supplement industry that can lead to the potential for contamination and mislabeling.
- Fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron and copper, are stored in the liver. Excessive intake through supplements can lead to a buildup causing toxicity and liver damage.
- The potential for liver damage, drug interactions, and other serious health complications associated with certain supplement ingredients.
- Individuals with underlying liver disease are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of liver supplements. The liver’s ability to process and detoxify substances is already compromised, making it more susceptible to further damage from supplement ingredients.
Dr. Ligresti is urging consumers to exercise caution when considering liver supplements and to consult with their healthcare provider before taking any new supplement, especially if you have a pre-existing liver condition or are taking other medications.
“Most importantly, I would like to stress that adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce your risk of liver disease and maintain optimal liver function for years to come,” says Dr. Ligresti.
He recommends:
- Exercising regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces insulin resistance, and improves overall metabolic health, which benefits the liver.
- Limiting alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is a leading cause of liver disease. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
- Avoiding risky behaviors: Sharing needles and unprotected sex can increase the risk of hepatitis B and C, which can severely damage the liver. Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
- Being cautious with medications and supplements: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), can be harmful to the liver in high doses or with chronic use. Always follow dosage instructions and consult your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements, especially if you have a liver condition.
- Managing diabetes and cholesterol: These conditions can contribute to fatty liver disease. Proper management is essential for liver health.
A healthy lifestyle, he says, is more effective than drastic, short-term measures.
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