Kidney And Liver Health: Supplements That Can Be Risky

A large number of people consider supplement safe as they are considered to be natural. Herbal and dietary supplements (containing dietary ingredients) are usually taken to supplement the diet. It may include minerals, herbs, botanicals, enzymes, organ tissues, and metabolites, according to National Library of Medicine. However, it is worth mentioning here that the consumption of some supplements can reportedly put additional pressure on kidney and liver, particularly if these organs are already experiencing some issues. Unhealthy kidneys may find it hard to filter waste products properly and frail liver may find it difficult to breaks some specific compounds effectively.

In such scenario, proper caution should be exercised to find supplements and herbs that may turn risky for individuals dealing with kidney and liver problems. Check the following supplements given below that should be avoided ideally for better kidney and liver health:  

Supplements That Can Strain Liver, Kidney

1. Green Tea Extract: Green tea can offer benefits to many but concentrated green tea extracts pills may contain excessive catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate, according to report published in NDTV. Presence of such compounds can lead to liver inflammation and in extreme scenario, serious liver issues when consumed in high doses.  

2. High Intake of Protein Powders: Protein powders targeted for bodybuilding and weight gain, can exert additional pressure on the kidney. And, when the dose of protein powders becomes higher, the already impacted kidney may have to tolerate additional strain to excrete nitrogenous waste products. It may impact individuals suffering from chronic kidney issues negatively.

3. Excess Intake Of Fat Soluble Vitamins: Excess fat soluble vitamins like vitamins A, E, D, K will get stored in the body and can surge to dangerous levels. Excessive vitamin A can strain the liver and may cause liver damage. On the other hand, vitamin D and vitamin E can also trigger issues when consumed without professional advice especially if the liver and kidney are already struggling.  

4. High Dose of Vitamin C: Excessive consumption of vitamin C can lead to kidney stones (if the limit exceeds over 2000 mg per day.) Extra intake of vitamin C can turn into a substance namely oxalate that can accumulate in the kidney and cause stones, particularly in individuals with kidney diseases, according to My Kidney Disease Team.

5. Iron Supplements: It is vital for human health but in the form of iron supplement without figuring out your levels, it may cause accumulation in liver. It can lead to hemochromatosis, that may cause inflammation and severely impact the liver and other key organs.  According to a report featured in National Library of Medicine, hemochromatosis can take place due to excessive iron accumulation in body tissue that can cause dysfunction of several organs. Generally, absorption of iron is strongly regulated but in hemochromatosis, the body absorbs excessive iron that it can not excrete.   

6. Potassium Supplements: People experiencing chronic kidney diseases or CKD may face issues in maintaining a balance of potassium levels. Excessive intake of potassium from supplements can lead to heart rhythm issues or heart attack. If you are suffering from CKD, do not take potassium supplements or take advice or your doctor.  

Healthy Drinks For Fatty Liver

Recently, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, also known as the gut doctor, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, took to his Instagram account and shared three powerful drinks for fatty liver. 

1. Beetroot Juice

Beetroot juice has emerged a magical drink that can cure several diseases with great ease. It possesses nitrates and antioxidants, essential for healthy liver. The presence of high content of betaine and betalains that can bring down liver fat, offers protection against oxidative stress, fights inflammation, and helps detoxification. The juice can effectively reverse fat accumulation and boosts liver enzymes such as ALT/AST. Several studies indicate the juice can dissolve fat in the liver and reduces dangerous lipids. Moderation will be key to avoid higher sugar intake. Dr Sethi said, “it is packed with betalains that are powerful antioxidants that can protect liver cells and reduce fat accumulation. Drink in moderation so the sugar does not outweigh the benefits.”

2. Coffee

Experts often recommend coffee as the drink is linked with a lower risk of liver disease that may include fatty liver. The presence of antioxidants and compounds such as chlorogenic acid can bring down fat deposits, inflammation, and fibrosis or scarring. The drink boosts metabolism, enhances liver enzymes like ALT/AST, increases insulin sensitivity, and prevents liver cells from damage. Studies claim that there will be lower risk of liver disease and cancer for those consuming it on a regular basis. Benefits have been associated with black coffee. Dr Sethi suggested, “it can lower the risk of fatty liver and fibrosis. Choose organic and skip sugar. A touch of honey, monkfruit or stevia without erythritol additives- are all fine.”  

3. Green tea

It is an excellent source of antioxidants such as catechins that can bring down liver fat and enhance liver enzymes. The anti-inflammatory nature of the drink can protect the liver from further damage. If you are keen to reap the benefits of green tea to deal with fatty liver, it is significant to consume it regularly. “It is rich in catechins like EGCG, which is shown to improve liver enzymes and reduce fat buildup," Dr. Sethi added. 

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.