Guarding Your Liver: A Gentle Reminder for Long COVID Warriors Using Supplements
If you’re living with Long COVID, you’ve likely found yourself exploring all kinds of supplements and medications in search of relief. With lingering symptoms/damage like fatigue, brain issues, POTS, MCAS and heart issues, it’s natural to want to try anything that might help. But in this journey, there’s one thing you must not forget: your liver.
You see, COVID-19 itself can damage your liver. Many of the people I know who have Long COVID, are experiencing elevated liver enzymes, which is a sign that their livers are struggling. Add supplements or medications into the mix, and ones liver, already working hard to recover from the effects of the virus, could face even more stress.
Your Liver: A Quiet Guardian
The liver quietly takes care of so much for you. It’s responsible for processing everything that enters your body—medications, supplements, food, even toxins. It transforms these into substances your body can safely use or eliminate. When the liver gets overwhelmed, though, it can’t keep up. That’s when things start to go wrong. Early signs of liver trouble might be subtle or completely hidden, but over time, damage can become more serious.
This is why it’s so important to be mindful of what you put into your body, especially when managing Long COVID. Supplements and medications, while helpful in the right context, can sometimes add to the burden on your liver.
The Hidden Dangers of Supplements and Medications
Many people assume that supplements—especially “natural” ones—are always safe. But natural doesn’t always mean harmless. Certain herbs and extracts, like green tea extract, kava, and comfrey, have been linked to liver damage, particularly when taken in high doses or over a long period.
Even over-the-counter medications can carry risks. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), a common pain reliever, is known to cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts. And it’s easy to accidentally go over the safe limit if you’re taking multiple products that contain it, especially without realizing it.
Prescription drugs can pose similar risks. Medications like statins, certain antibiotics, and antiviral drugs may affect liver function, particularly in people with ongoing health issues. For someone already dealing with the aftereffects of COVID-19, these medications might pose additional challenges for the liver.
How to Protect Your Liver While Navigating Long COVID
Your liver is already working overtime to help your body recover from the damage COVID-19 has caused. To give it the support it needs, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Do your research: Before starting any new supplement or medication, look into its potential effects on your liver. The more informed you are, the better you can protect yourself.
2. Consult your healthcare provider: If you’re taking multiple medications or supplements, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help identify possible risks or interactions and might recommend regular liver function tests to catch any issues early on.
3. Stick to recommended doses: When it comes to supplements or medications, more is not always better. Following dosing guidelines can help ensure that you’re not putting unnecessary strain on your liver.
4. Know the warning signs: Fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or unexplained nausea can all be signs that your liver is in distress. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice right away.
Remember: COVID-19 and Supplements Can Both Stress Your Liver
Long COVID is hard enough without adding liver damage to the mix. As your body works to heal from the virus, your liver plays a critical role in managing the detoxification process. Be mindful of what you take—whether it’s a supplement, over-the-counter drug, or prescription medication—because your liver is already dealing with the effects of COVID-19 itself. By taking a few extra steps to protect your liver, you can ensure that your pursuit of healing doesn’t come at the cost of another vital part of your body.
For more information on supplements the US government has a online database. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK54785…
If you’re living with Long COVID, you’ve likely found yourself exploring all kinds of supplements and medications in search of relief. With lingering symptoms/damage like fatigue, brain issues, POTS, MCAS and heart issues, it’s natural to want to try anything that might help. But in this journey, there’s one thing you must not forget: your liver.
You see, COVID-19 itself can damage your liver. Many of the people I know who have Long COVID, are experiencing elevated liver enzymes, which is a sign that their livers are struggling. Add supplements or medications into the mix, and ones liver, already working hard to recover from the effects of the virus, could face even more stress.
Your Liver: A Quiet Guardian
The liver quietly takes care of so much for you. It’s responsible for processing everything that enters your body—medications, supplements, food, even toxins. It transforms these into substances your body can safely use or eliminate. When the liver gets overwhelmed, though, it can’t keep up. That’s when things start to go wrong. Early signs of liver trouble might be subtle or completely hidden, but over time, damage can become more serious.
This is why it’s so important to be mindful of what you put into your body, especially when managing Long COVID. Supplements and medications, while helpful in the right context, can sometimes add to the burden on your liver.
The Hidden Dangers of Supplements and Medications
Many people assume that supplements—especially “natural” ones—are always safe. But natural doesn’t always mean harmless. Certain herbs and extracts, like green tea extract, kava, and comfrey, have been linked to liver damage, particularly when taken in high doses or over a long period.
Even over-the-counter medications can carry risks. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), a common pain reliever, is known to cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts. And it’s easy to accidentally go over the safe limit if you’re taking multiple products that contain it, especially without realizing it.
Prescription drugs can pose similar risks. Medications like statins, certain antibiotics, and antiviral drugs may affect liver function, particularly in people with ongoing health issues. For someone already dealing with the aftereffects of COVID-19, these medications might pose additional challenges for the liver.
How to Protect Your Liver While Navigating Long COVID
Your liver is already working overtime to help your body recover from the damage COVID-19 has caused. To give it the support it needs, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Do your research: Before starting any new supplement or medication, look into its potential effects on your liver. The more informed you are, the better you can protect yourself.
2. Consult your healthcare provider: If you’re taking multiple medications or supplements, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help identify possible risks or interactions and might recommend regular liver function tests to catch any issues early on.
3. Stick to recommended doses: When it comes to supplements or medications, more is not always better. Following dosing guidelines can help ensure that you’re not putting unnecessary strain on your liver.
4. Know the warning signs: Fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or unexplained nausea can all be signs that your liver is in distress. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice right away.
Remember: COVID-19 and Supplements Can Both Stress Your Liver
Long COVID is hard enough without adding liver damage to the mix. As your body works to heal from the virus, your liver plays a critical role in managing the detoxification process. Be mindful of what you take—whether it’s a supplement, over-the-counter drug, or prescription medication—because your liver is already dealing with the effects of COVID-19 itself. By taking a few extra steps to protect your liver, you can ensure that your pursuit of healing doesn’t come at the cost of another vital part of your body.
For more information on supplements the US government has a online database. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK54785…
Guide to Using Supplements for Liver Support
The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous essential functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and hormone production. While the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate and detoxify itself, some people consider using supplements to support liver health. Below is a guide on the most common liver supplements and their potential benefits.
Common Liver Supplements
1. Milk Thistle (Silymarin)
- Benefits: Milk thistle is one of the most popular supplements for liver health. It contains silymarin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to protect liver cells from toxins and aid in liver cell regeneration[1][2][6].
- Usage: Available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and extracts. It is generally well-tolerated, but it may cause gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions in some individuals[6].
2. Artichoke Leaf Extract
- Benefits: Artichoke leaf is thought to have antioxidant properties that may support liver health. It might also promote bile production, aiding in digestion and detoxification[2][4].
- Usage: Often found in combination with other liver-supporting herbs. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use[2].
3. Dandelion Root
- Benefits: Traditionally used as a liver tonic, dandelion root may help increase bile flow. However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited[2][4].
- Usage: Available as teas, capsules, or extracts. It is advisable to discuss with a healthcare provider before starting[2].
4. Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Benefits: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against liver injury[5].
- Usage: Can be consumed as a spice or in supplement form. It is important to ensure proper dosage and consult with a healthcare provider[5].
5. Zinc
- Benefits: Zinc is an essential trace element that supports immune function and may help protect the liver from oxidative stress, particularly in chronic liver diseases[3].
- Usage: Available in various supplement forms. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages to avoid toxicity[3].
Considerations and Precautions
- Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Before starting any liver supplement, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. Some supplements can interact with medications or cause adverse effects[1][3][5].
- Lifestyle Modifications: Supplements should not replace healthy lifestyle choices. A balanced diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding high-fat and sugary foods are essential for maintaining liver health[1][5].
- Potential Risks: While some supplements may offer benefits, there is limited scientific evidence to fully support their efficacy. Some herbal supplements can even cause liver damage or interact negatively with other medications[3][5].
In conclusion, while liver supplements like milk thistle, artichoke leaf, and dandelion root are popular, their effectiveness varies, and they should be used with caution. Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle and consulting healthcare professionals are key steps in supporting liver health.
Sources
[1] Liver Supplements: What You Should Know - US News Health
[2] Liver Supplements - CVS Pharmacy
[3] Liver supplements: Do they work and how to maintain liver health
[4] What You Should Know Before Taking Liver Supplements - Healthline
[5] How to Improve Liver Health - Houston Methodist
[6] Does Milk Thistle Help Your Liver? - WebMD
[7] 5 Liver Health Supplements You Should Know About - Life Extension health.usnews.com/health-care/pa…
cvs.com/shop/content/l…
medicalnewstoday.com/articles/liver…
healthline.com/health/liver-s…
houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/…
webmd.com/hepatitis/milk…
lifeextension.com/wellness/suppl…
The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous essential functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and hormone production. While the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate and detoxify itself, some people consider using supplements to support liver health. Below is a guide on the most common liver supplements and their potential benefits.
Common Liver Supplements
1. Milk Thistle (Silymarin)
- Benefits: Milk thistle is one of the most popular supplements for liver health. It contains silymarin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to protect liver cells from toxins and aid in liver cell regeneration[1][2][6].
- Usage: Available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and extracts. It is generally well-tolerated, but it may cause gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions in some individuals[6].
2. Artichoke Leaf Extract
- Benefits: Artichoke leaf is thought to have antioxidant properties that may support liver health. It might also promote bile production, aiding in digestion and detoxification[2][4].
- Usage: Often found in combination with other liver-supporting herbs. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use[2].
3. Dandelion Root
- Benefits: Traditionally used as a liver tonic, dandelion root may help increase bile flow. However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited[2][4].
- Usage: Available as teas, capsules, or extracts. It is advisable to discuss with a healthcare provider before starting[2].
4. Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Benefits: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against liver injury[5].
- Usage: Can be consumed as a spice or in supplement form. It is important to ensure proper dosage and consult with a healthcare provider[5].
5. Zinc
- Benefits: Zinc is an essential trace element that supports immune function and may help protect the liver from oxidative stress, particularly in chronic liver diseases[3].
- Usage: Available in various supplement forms. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages to avoid toxicity[3].
Considerations and Precautions
- Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Before starting any liver supplement, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. Some supplements can interact with medications or cause adverse effects[1][3][5].
- Lifestyle Modifications: Supplements should not replace healthy lifestyle choices. A balanced diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding high-fat and sugary foods are essential for maintaining liver health[1][5].
- Potential Risks: While some supplements may offer benefits, there is limited scientific evidence to fully support their efficacy. Some herbal supplements can even cause liver damage or interact negatively with other medications[3][5].
In conclusion, while liver supplements like milk thistle, artichoke leaf, and dandelion root are popular, their effectiveness varies, and they should be used with caution. Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle and consulting healthcare professionals are key steps in supporting liver health.
Sources
[1] Liver Supplements: What You Should Know - US News Health
[2] Liver Supplements - CVS Pharmacy
[3] Liver supplements: Do they work and how to maintain liver health
[4] What You Should Know Before Taking Liver Supplements - Healthline
[5] How to Improve Liver Health - Houston Methodist
[6] Does Milk Thistle Help Your Liver? - WebMD
[7] 5 Liver Health Supplements You Should Know About - Life Extension health.usnews.com/health-care/pa…
cvs.com/shop/content/l…
medicalnewstoday.com/articles/liver…
healthline.com/health/liver-s…
houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/…
webmd.com/hepatitis/milk…
lifeextension.com/wellness/suppl…
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
