Can Supplements Harm Your Liver? Stay Informed

Even with a balanced diet, we might miss out on key nutrients. Supplements can help. But be careful. Some can harm your liver. Let’s learn more about this.

What Are Dietary Supplements?

Dietary supplements give us vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutrients. They help when our diet isn’t enough. They come in many forms:

• Pills
• Capsules
• Powders
• Liquids

Some common supplements are:

• Vitamin D
• Calcium
• Green tea extract
• Turmeric
• Bodybuilding supplements

Many supplements help us. But some can hurt our liver. This is especially true if we take too much or don’t talk to a doctor first.

How Can Supplements Hurt the Liver?

The liver cleans our body. It processes nutrients. But too much can harm it. This can cause swelling, scarring, or even liver failure.

Why Supplements Can Be Harmful

• Bad Ingredients: Some supplements have things that hurt liver cells.
• Not Controlled: Unlike medicines, supplements aren’t checked as much. Many can be bought without a doctor’s note.
• Too Much Use: Taking a lot or using them for a long time can hurt the liver.
• Many Ingredients: Some supplements, like for weight loss, have many things that can hurt the liver.

Signs of Liver Damage

Liver damage can be slow. It’s hard to see early. Look for these signs:

• Yellow skin or eyes
• Pain in the upper right belly
• Swollen belly
• Dark pee or light poop
• Feeling sick or not hungry
• Losing weight
• Feeling tired or weak
• Feeling confused

Why Aren’t Supplements Always Safe?

Supplements aren’t always safe because:

• They can be sold without much testing.
• Labels might not show all ingredients or side effects.
• Bad reactions aren’t usually reported.
• The amount and quality of ingredients can change a lot.

How to Use Supplements Safely

If you take supplements, follow these tips to protect your liver:

• Talk to Your Doctor: Always talk to a doctor before starting any supplement.
• Learn About Ingredients: Know the risks and benefits of each supplement.
• Don’t Take Too Much: Stick to the recommended amount. Don’t take many supplements with the same ingredients.
• Watch for Signs: Look for signs of liver trouble. Stop use if you see them.
• Choose Good Brands: Only buy from trusted companies.
• Avoid Some Products: Stay away from weight loss or bodybuilding products with many ingredients. They can hurt your liver.

Sources

• Orlando Health: Are Dietary Supplements Safe for Your Liver?
• AARP: 6 Popular Supplements That Can Damage Your Liver
• Pharmacist.com: Herbal Supplements: A Rising Threat to Liver Health
• National Institutes of Health (PMC): Acute Liver Failure Caused by Dietary Supplements