The herbal and dietary supplement industry is vast, with over 80,000 products available and generating billions of dollars in revenue. However, experts at the University of Michigan caution that there are potential risks associated with these supplements, particularly concerning liver damage.
A recent study highlighted specific supplements, including turmeric, green tea, and ashwagandha, as being linked to liver issues, with rare cases resulting in fatal damage.
Dr. Robert Fontana, a hepatologist at U-M Health, pointed out that turmeric has been especially concerning, as clinical observations show significant liver injury, including hospitalization and jaundice.
The incidence of such injuries is increasing, raising awareness of the risks associated with some of these popular over-the-counter supplements. Many consumers are unaware of these potential dangers, partly because these products are widely available without a prescription and have labels that resemble those on medications.
One of the key issues is that these supplements often come with attractive labeling, leading consumers to assume they have undergone safety testing like pharmaceutical drugs. However, most have not been rigorously tested for safety or efficacy.
Additionally, the fact that these supplements are plant-based adds complexity, as the composition can vary from batch to batch, making it difficult to know precisely what is in each product. This variability further complicates the ability to assess their safety.
Another challenge is that many patients fail to inform their doctors about the over-the-counter supplements they are taking. This could be due to forgetfulness or the fact that they are not asked during consultations. As a result, healthcare providers may not have the information needed to evaluate the safety of the supplements or offer informed advice to patients.
While the experts at the University of Michigan do not intend to cause widespread alarm, they emphasize the need for consumers and healthcare providers to be aware of the potential for adverse liver effects from certain supplements. They recommend that people remain cautious and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the safe use of these products.
