In many cases, dietary supplements can benefit your health. Certain supplements are great for targeting specific needs and filling in any nutrient gaps you have in your daily diet. But it’s important to keep in mind that supplements can also damage your wellbeing if you’re not careful. Improper use is likely to result in adverse effects—especially when it comes to your liver.
So, what are a few common supplement mistakes that could take a toll on your liver health? We spoke to Dr. Daniel Boyer, MD of Farr Institute to find out. He emphasizes that taking dietary supplements without proper precautions can sometimes lead to liver issues, warning against overuse and harmful interactions in particular. Find all of his expert insights below.
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1. Taking high doses
One of the most common and significant dangers of supplement consumption is taking too much. Dr. Boyer warns that fat-soluble vitamins, in particular, like A, D, E, and K, can build up in the body and become toxic when taken in excess. He stresses that "consuming supplements in amounts exceeding the recommended dosages" can have serious consequences on your body, especially when it comes to your liver. Since your liver works to metabolize these vitamins, extremely high doses can overload the organ and hinder its ability to function properly. Ultimately, this could result in liver damage. This is just one reason you should always follow recommended dosages.
2. Ignoring Drug Interactions
Another critical mistake people commonly make, according to Dr. Boyer, is failing to consider how supplements can interact with prescription medications. He explains that not checking for potential interactions can have serious repercussions. "These interactions can increase liver workload and risk injury," he warns. There are many dangerous combinations out there, as certain supplements may impact the effectiveness of medications, potentially resulting in harmful side effects or diminished therapeutic effects. For this reason and many others, it's always important to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are currently on medication.
How to consume supplements safely
To consume supplements safely, Dr. Boyer recommends discussing any new supplements with your healthcare provider and opting for those certified by reputable third-party testers like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab to ensure quality and safety. "Stick to recommended dosages unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional, and monitor your body's response to supplements. Watch for symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or jaundice, which could indicate liver distress," he urges readers. "By remaining informed and cautious, you can help maintain your liver health while still benefiting from the positive effects of dietary supplements." Got it!
READ MORE: 8 Supplements With Hidden Dangers, From Liver Damage To Cardiovascular Risks, Experts Warn
