The doctor revealed the mortal danger of uncontrolled use of dietary supplements

Uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements and vitamin complexes can lead to toxic liver damage. Gastroenterologist and expert at the Gemotest laboratory Ekaterina Kashukh told RT about this.

According to her, the risk especially increases with self-use of high doses of drugs without prior examination. The doctor named niacin, vitamin B3, as one of the potentially dangerous substances. In large doses, it can damage liver cells. Concentrated plant extracts and multi-ingredient supplements may also pose a threat. In particular, high doses of green tea extract have been associated with a risk of acute liver toxicity.

“Dietary supplements provoke severe acute hepatitis, against the background of which the functioning of the liver can be seriously impaired - this is called liver failure,” noted Kashuh. In some cases, the patient may require an emergency transplant, the specialist explained. In addition, some plant components can affect the body's processing of drugs.

The gastroenterologist recommended that you coordinate the intake of supplements with your doctor, especially for chronic liver diseases and metabolic disorders. When prescribing high doses of vitamins, it may be necessary to monitor blood biochemical parameters, including ALT, AST, bilirubin, gamma-GT and alkaline phosphatase.

Among the symptoms of possible liver damage, the specialist identified constant nausea, heaviness under the right ribs, darkening of the urine and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. If they occur, you should immediately seek medical help and tell your doctor about any supplements you are taking.