Turmeric and Green Tea Among Supplements Causing Liver Issues

Rising Risks: Botanical Supplements and Liver Health

Over 15 million Americans might be jeopardizing their liver health while attempting to improve their overall wellness. Recent research has highlighted the potential harm from widely used botanical supplements, including turmeric, green tea, ashwagandha, and Garcinia cambogia.

Researchers from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, analyzed data from 2017 to 2021 involving 9,685 participants. They discovered that nearly 4.7% of US adults had used one of six potentially harmful supplements in the past month. These supplements included turmeric, green tea, ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, black cohosh, and red yeast rice.

Independent Use and Purpose of Supplements

Many users took these supplements independently, not based on medical advice, for various purposes: turmeric for joint health, green tea for increased energy, Garcinia cambogia for weight loss, black cohosh for hot flashes, and red yeast rice for heart health.

Increasing Hospitalizations Due to Liver Toxicity

While liver toxicity from these supplements is not a new concern, recent studies, including one from 2022, show a worrying increase in hospitalizations due to overdose. The rate of hospitalizations rose from 7% to 20% between 2004 and 2014.

Emerging Concerns and Precautions

Alisa Likhitsup, an assistant professor of gastroenterology, and her team noted that herbal and dietary supplements are becoming a significant cause of drug-induced liver toxicity. Symptoms of this condition include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, rash, itching, and upper-right abdominal pain. If not properly managed, it can lead to severe outcomes, including the need for a liver transplant or even death.

The researchers are not advising against the use of herbal supplements but are urging users to be cautious about ingredient quality and dosage, particularly if taking multiple supplements or medications for chronic conditions.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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