Turmeric supplements have been found to cause liver damage in some individuals, according to recent studies. The active compound curcumin in these supplements can interfere with the liver’s detoxification process when taken in high doses.
A 2020 Italian study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology linked acute hepatitis cases to high doses of turmeric supplements. Another study found that 23 cases of acute hepatitis were tied to high doses of turmeric, while a 2022 case study revealed that 15.5% of hepatotoxicity cases were attributed to dietary and herbal supplements, with turmeric being associated with 32 single-ingredient products.
Turmeric supplements are more dangerous when combined with black pepper, which greatly increases the body’s absorption of curcumin. A 2023 study published in The American Journal of Medicine concluded that liver injury due to turmeric appears to be increasing in the United States, and those affected experienced jaundice, nausea, and abdominal pain.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition has identified six “potentially hepatotoxic botanical products,” including turmeric, green tea, ashwagandha, garcinia cambogia, red yeast rice, and black cohosh. The cause of liver damage is not yet known but is likely due to metabolism that occurs in the liver.
Experts recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine. While turmeric supplements are considered safe at doses around 500 mg, high doses can lead to side effects. Individuals with certain conditions, such as bleeding disorders or stomach ulcers, should avoid turmeric supplements altogether.
To minimize risks, it is essential to follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your supplement regimen.
Source: https://bestlifeonline.com/turmeric-supplements-liver-damage