Let’s be real. We have all tried one of those “trendy” diets that seem to do miraculous things to your health – be it a significant drop in weight or a healthy and “natural” glow to your skin. But how many of us actually have been able to lose weight on such diets or avoid weight regain? You may not see too many hands go up for this one. The reason is everyone’s body is unique and has different needs when it comes to nutrition. What works for one person may not work for another. Their paths to success might differ due to their unique genetic makeup. This is where nutrigenomics, the science exploring the interplay between genes and diet, steps in. Studying gene reactions to different diets (low-fat, low-carb) helps personalize dietary advice based on your unique genetic makeup. Continue reading to learn about nutrigenomics, its testing benefits, disease prevention role, and day-to-day applications.
Did You Know?
The interaction between your diet and genes impacts everything from weight management and vitamin needs to food intolerances and eating behavior. You can use your existing ancestry test DNA data to unlock all this information with Xcode Life’s Gene Nutrition report. Learn more.
Nutrigenomics, or nutritional genomics, studies how food and genes interact.
It tells us there’s no one perfect diet because we all have slightly different genetic makeups. What works for your friend’s body might work differently for yours!
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
So nutrigenomics tries listening to this nutrient-gene conversation to customize nutrition advice.
Nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics explore the complex relationship between nutrients and our genetic makeup, but they do so from distinct perspectives.
Nutrigenetics:
Nutrigenomics:
Nutrigenomics is increasingly influential in modern health and nutrition, offering personalized healthcare and disease prevention possibilities. Here’s how:
While still growing, nutrigenomics promises personalized nutrition and preventive medicine, improving health outcomes.
Remember, consulting healthcare professionals before dietary changes based on genetic information is crucial.
Our genes affect just about every aspect of nutrition, from how our bodies break down macros and micros to food intolerances and preferences.
For example, if a person has an excess of caffeine-metabolizing enzyme, they may be able to drink seven cups of coffee a day without experiencing any jitteriness or sleep issues.
On the other hand, if they are deficient in lactase-producing genes, they may not be able to add milk to their coffees without experiencing abdominal discomfort.
Another gene called FTO has garnered attention for its role in body weight regulation.
Variations in this gene can influence a person’s metabolism, how they burn energy, and their overall energy balance, all of which contribute to weight management challenges or advantages.
Each individual carries a distinct combination of genetic “pros” and “cons” when it comes to nutrition and metabolism.
Nutrigenomic analysis allows us to make more informed dietary choices to enhance health and mitigate disease risks.
While genetics are undoubtedly a crucial piece of the puzzle, it’s also clear that lifestyle and environmental factors significantly shape how our bodies respond to what we eat.
Genetic predispositions, which some may view as “disadvantages,” can often be mitigated with strategic diet and lifestyle modifications.
For example, if a genetic variant tends to predispose you to overeat, incorporating foods that are high in satiety in your main meals and opting for healthier snacks can help curb this tendency.
Nutrigenomics opens the door to a more personalized approach to nutrition, emphasizing the power of understanding our genetic profiles.
It teaches us that while we may have genetic predispositions that influence our nutritional health, we are not bound by our DNA.
With the insights provided by nutrigenomics, combined with mindful lifestyle choices, we can take control of our health, turning genetic knowledge into a tool for personalized wellness strategies.
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies like Xcode Life now allow users to order a nutrition genetic test without requiring a doctor’s help.
Genetic testing looks at your DNA to find mutations (variations) that could lead to health issues.
Nutrigenomic testing is a genetic test that shows your specific nutritional needs.
It’s done by swabbing your cheek and sending the sample to a lab to examine specific nutrition-related genes.
After sequencing the genes, lab companies and healthcare providers in nutrigenomics analyze the results to understand what they mean for your health.
To take a nutrigenomics test, you typically need to provide a saliva or blood sample. The phlebotomist provides the testing tool kit.
Most saliva tests are done using at-home DNA test kits.
This sample is analyzed in a laboratory to identify specific genetic variations related to nutrition and health.
DNA data analysis companies such as Xcode Life allow users to upload their existing genetic ancestry test DNA data to provide insights on 48 crucial nutrition aspects.
The cost of nutrigenomics testing can vary depending on the provider and the comprehensiveness of the test. Prices typically range from $300 to a few thousand dollars.
Xcode Life’s Gene Nutrition Report: 48 Traits for $40
(DNA kit not included; only for those who have already taken a DNA ancestry test)
As individual needs and goals vary, no single best test exists. To find your perfect match:
Nutrigenomics can provide insights into how your genes influence metabolism and appetite regulation.
This, in turn, impacts fat-burning efforts.
Further, it also helps identify your ideal macro breakup by shedding light on how well your body processes carbs, fats, and protein.
However, it’s not a guaranteed solution and should be combined with a healthy lifestyle. Remember, research is ongoing, and its definitive role in weight loss currently has limited evidence.
According to the Current Research In Nutrition And Food Science, nutrigenomic studies help prevent diseases like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, gestational diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Similarly, diet plays a role in about 30–40% of all cancer cases. Numerous studies suggest that breast, prostate, liver, colon, and lung cancers are associated with dietary habits.
Nutrigenomics can assess a person’s unique nutritional needs based on their genes, creating a personalized diet. It also aids in treating and preventing chronic diseases.
The role of Nutrigenomics in Disease Prevention is as follows:
Since recognizing the right to food in 1948, there has been major progress in making food available worldwide.
International trade and organizations like the Codex Alimentarius Commission have helped ensure food safety and nutrition globally.
However, in recent years, challenges have arisen, such as increased consumption of processed foods and sedentary lifestyles.
The same has resulted in more lifestyle-related diseases, especially in developing countries.
With advances in understanding how food, nutrition, and genes interact, a new field called Nutritional Genomics or Nutrigenomics has emerged.
This field focuses on personalized dietary interventions based on genetic makeup to manage nutrition-related diseases and improve health outcomes.
The practical applications of nutrigenomics in daily life include:
Nutrigenomics is exciting, but integrating it into public healthcare poses several crucial ethical and regulatory challenges. Here’s why:
By tackling these challenges, we can make sure everyone benefits from the exciting possibilities of nutrigenomics.
About 60% of deaths worldwide resulted from lifestyle-associated chronic diseases, double that of infectious diseases.
Nutrigenomics is no science or magic that can be a one-stop solution for all your health issues. Your lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role, too.
Prolonged exposure to a poor lifestyle and environmental conditions can harm your health despite eating a good diet.
These dos and don’ts can help you maintain healthy genes and body:
Nutrigenomics is the study of how nutrients influence genetic makeup.
Nutrigenomic testing is a genetic test that shows your specific nutritional needs. It’s done by swabbing your cheek and sending it to a lab to examine around 70 or more specific genes.
The testing helps you identify your nutritional needs and get a personalized diet plan for yourself. The diet plan can also help in weight balance and disease control.
However, nutrigenomics alone cannot be a one-stop solution for all your health issues. It’s also essential to check your lifestyle and environmental conditions.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23113033
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/21/7/2633
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/metabolome
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/proteome
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Genome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1193991
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3481686
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071525
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4210933
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5634986
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4869012
Superfood is a term used to describe a nutrient-dense food item that can help protect you against multiple health concerns. While many exotic foods are claimed to be superfoods by social media, not all of these claims are supported by science. Spirulina has long been used as a source of nutrition in many cultures worldwide. Researchers have found that Spirulina is a superfood and can do wonders for your health. It also has proven health benefits specifically for men, making Spirulina an incredible superfood.
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is also one of the oldest life forms on earth.
It is a type of cyanobacteria, a single-celled microbe colloquially termed blue-green algae.
Spirulina has been a food source in Mexico and South Africa for centuries.
It has numerous health benefits, is often used as a supplement, and is a common ingredient in smoothies and energy bars.
According to the US Department of Food and Agriculture, one teaspoon of Spirulina contains:
Spirulina is usually available as a powder.
Mix it in a glass of water, add it to your morning oatmeal or smoothie, or sprinkle it on salads.
Most people find Spirulina neutral, so it won’t affect the taste of the food you add it to.
It can take 1-3 weeks, or sometimes more than that, for Spirulina to affect your overall health.
Spirulina’s effects on health depend on health, physical activity, and food consumption.
You will see faster results if you follow a healthy lifestyle and take spirulina supplements.
Consuming Spirulina can be highly beneficial for your health.
However, it can also come with certain risks.
During Spirulina’s growth in marine water, it can accumulate heavy metals, harmful bacteria, and microcystins that can damage your liver.
Spirulina is an anticoagulant with blood-thinning properties, so those with clotting disorders should avoid it.
Spirulina also contains an amino acid called phenylalanine, which can be harmful to those with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria.
You should not take Spirulina if you are
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
Spirulina can increase the production of testosterone in men.
This, in turn, can improve athletic performance and sexual health.
Spirulina is rich in antioxidants that lower inflammation in the body.
When taking Spirulina regularly, you may notice less joint pain and bloating and clearer skin.
Over time, Spirulina may improve your heart and gut health and help you lose excess weight.
Research shows that Spirulina can help strengthen your muscles.
In one study, men took a 6-gram spirulina supplement every day for a month.
They reported enjoying more extended periods of exercise without fatigue than those who didn’t take the supplement.
Spirulina contains up to 4 grams of protein per tablespoon.
Consuming it may increase stamina and improve athletic performance.
Spirulina, a single-celled microbe, has long been a food source in many cultures.
Now, scientists have found that Spirulina has a lot of health benefits, especially for men.
Spirulina is rich in antioxidants and can reduce inflammation in the body, improving heart health.
It can also help control diabetes and protect against cancers.
In men, it can improve prostate health and increase testosterone production.
Spirulina is usually safe for consumption.
However, as with all supplements, it is a good idea to consult your doctor before taking Spirulina.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20010119
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6241722
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576896
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8212345
The MTHFR gene is key to a process called methylation, which pretty much runs the entire show in our human body, regulating innumerable critical functions. The importance of a well-functioning methylation cycle, thus, cannot be overstated. But when there are unfavorable changes in the MTHFR gene, methylation could be affected, increasing your risk for numerous health conditions. A genetic methylation test is a simple way to identify whether or not you carry the MTHFR gene changes. Well, what if you do? The fix is as simple as it gets. Read on to learn more about MTHFR and methylation, how to get a genetic methylation test, and ways to combat MTHFR mutations.
Methylation is a critical biochemical process within the human body, governing myriad functions from DNA production to brain chemical synthesis.
This intricate process is vital in regulating key bodily systems, including cardiovascular, neurological, reproductive, and detoxification pathways.
At its core, methylation is about turning biological gears and switches on and off, enabling the body to function optimally.
Central to this process is the MTHFR gene, which encodes for the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.
This enzyme is instrumental in processing amino acids, the fundamental building blocks of proteins. MTHFR’s significance is particularly pronounced in a chemical reaction involving different forms of vitamin B9 (folate).
This reaction is a crucial step in the methylation process.
The MTHFR enzyme also aids in converting homocysteine into methionine, an essential compound needed by the body for protein synthesis and the formation of other critical substances.
The methylation pathway in our bodies is influenced by many genes. The most important one is the MTHFR gene. Others include:
A methylation genetic test analyzes these genes associated with the methylation pathway to look for any changes or variants that may result in less-than-optimal functioning.
The results can help you understand your methylation status and underline nutritional needs to support your methylation.
In the study of genetics, a variant refers to any deviation in the DNA sequence from what is typically expected.
Focusing on the MTHFR gene, each individual carries two copies of this gene, inheriting one from each parent.
Approximately 25% of people of Hispanic descent and between 10–15% of people of Caucasian descent in the United States have two copies of the C677T mutation.
These mutations are particularly important because they can lead to elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood.
Homocysteine is an amino acid that, at high levels, may be associated with a range of health issues, including:
Understanding the possible genotypes for these MTHFR variants is crucial in determining an individual’s genetic predisposition to these health issues.
The C677T Variant
The A1298C Variant
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test utilizes raw data obtained from popular ancestry genetic testing service providers like 23andMe, Ancestry DNA, Family Tree DNA (FTDNA), Living DNA, and My Heritage to provide the MTHFR and Methylation report.
The test analyzes more than 15 genes associated with the methylation pathway.
The test specifically detects two common mutations in the MTHFR gene:
The MTHFR Report will indicate whether these mutations were detected in the individual’s genetic data.
In addition to the detection of mutations, the report may also provide an interpretation of the results.
The report also has a section titled “Other MTHFR SNPs,” which profiles your genotypes for variations in the other methylation genes, which are associated, in varying degrees, with MTHFR enzyme activity.
For a sample MTHFR report/ preview of the report, click here.
Did You Know?
The DNA data from your genetic ancestry test can be used to identify if you have MTHFR gene mutations. You can discuss these results with your doctor, who can recommend the correct course of action for you. Download your DNA data and upload it to Xcode Life to learn about MTHFR and 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Katy Says
I’m so glad I confirmed once and for all about my MTHFR status. The genetic testing my practitoner offered was extortionate. After completing my AncestryDNA I was able to upload my raw data file with Xcode Life at a very reasonable price and receive a report that was very easy to understand. I now have a concrete plan on how to go about lowering my homocysteine and checking it’s status every year… Read More.
In Xcode Life’s MTHFR report, the initial section will specify which, if any, of the 2 prominent variants of the MTHFR gene you have.
Depending on the results, the MTHFR enzyme activity will be provided as a bar diagram.
If the pointer is in orange or red, please discuss the results with your doctor so that they can correlate them with family history and clinical symptoms to recommend suitable supplementation if you require any.
The next section of the report includes information on variants in other genes that partially influence MTHFR enzyme activity.
The presence of a large number of homozygous (2 risk variants- red color) of high-ranking SNPs may be associated with lower enzymatic activity.
Improving methylation, a crucial biological process, can significantly impact overall health. Here are five natural ways to enhance methylation:
Bonus Tips
Additional strategies include increasing the intake of coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic or l-methylfolate, and vitamins B6 and B12, which are integral to the methylation process.
Maintaining gut health, improving stomach acid, and supplementing with antioxidants, magnesium, and zinc can also support proper homocysteine metabolism.
Remember, while these natural approaches can improve methylation, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially regarding supplementation and diet modifications.
Methylation is a vital biochemical process in our bodies, influenced significantly by the MTHFR gene and its two important variants, C677T and A1298C.
These common genetic mutations, found in a significant portion of the population, can lead to elevated homocysteine levels and associated health risks.
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test offers an in-depth analysis of these variants using data from popular ancestry testing services. It provides a comprehensive MTHFR report, helping individuals understand their genetic predisposition to methylation-related issues.
To support optimal methylation, adopting a nutrient-dense diet, supplementing appropriately, regular exercise, adequate sleep, limiting exposure to harmful substances, and reducing toxin exposure are key strategies.
Additionally, incorporating specific nutrients and supplements like coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 can further enhance methylation processes.
It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and to ensure these natural methods align with your individual health needs.
https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2012112
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326181
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/mthfr-gene-and-folic-acid.html
Experiencing bloating and tiredness after meals? Does your stomach ache, or do you find it hard to concentrate after eating certain foods? There might be a hidden cause – lectins. Though found in many healthy foods, lectins can cause problems for some people, like tummy troubles, skin issues, and feeling worn out. Keep reading to learn about lectins, which foods have lots of them, signs to watch for, and most importantly – what you can do if they’re making you feel unwell. If you want to take charge of your health and feel better, this article gives simple tips and useful information about dealing with lectins.
Did You Know?
Certain gene changes can make you prone to food intolerance and drug allergies. These genes are mostly involved in immune system regulation, and changes in them may result in the immune system attacking some components in the food. You can use your ancestry genetic testing data to uncover this information. Learn more.
Lectin intolerance is a food sensitivity that occurs when certain people react badly to foods with lots of lectins.
Lectins are proteins in plants like beans, grains, fruits, and vegetables. They stick to carbohydrates in our guts, messing with how we absorb nutrients and causing digestive discomfort.
While lectins are usually fine for most people, some might experience adverse reactions or other symptoms after consuming them.
Lectin intolerance can cause various symptoms, highlighting the significant impact on overall health and well-being.
Several commonly consumed foods have high levels of lectins. Here are 6 examples:
Adding to the list of foods already mentioned above as high in lectins, here are some more examples:
Understanding what might increase the risk of lectin intolerance is crucial for managing symptoms. Here are some potential factors:
The specific genes associated with lectin sensitivity are still being studied, but two genes might be involved:
Remember, lectin sensitivity involves many genes and other factors, and research is still ongoing to understand it better.
Bananas contain moderate lectins, but they are mostly harmless, called agglutinins. The human gut does not readily absorb these agglutinins, and they do not cause significant health problems for most people.
While coffee does contain lectins, the amount is generally considered low and not thought to be harmful to most people. Some studies suggest that coffee may have some health benefits, like lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and type 2 diabetes.
There is no known way to flush lectins out of your body. Here’s why:
Lectins do not negatively impact everyone. While some people may develop symptoms after eating lectin-containing foods, others can tolerate them without issue.
It’s important to note that responses vary on an individual basis. Testing your sensitivity to lectins is essential.
Additionally, foods with lectins offer health benefits like antioxidants, stabilized insulin, and blood sugar regulation.
Research shows populations eating diets high in lectin-rich legumes, whole grains, and nuts have lower rates of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
So, while lectins can cause problems for some, they also provide benefits.
It’s best to consult a professional to determine if you can incorporate lectin-rich foods in moderation as part of an overall balanced approach.
Managing lectin intolerance involves alleviating symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition.
As many reported symptoms involve gastrointestinal distress, reducing or eliminating high-lectin foods from one’s diet may provide relief.
Restricting the consumption of foods that worsen symptoms under a healthcare professional’s instructions can help manage discomfort.
The goal is to identify and minimize the consumption of specific high-lectin foods that cause symptoms in each individual.
This personalized approach helps tune into the body’s signals, control flare-ups, and improve overall wellness.
Reducing lectin intake can help alleviate discomfort for those sensitive to these compounds.
Here are some straightforward ways to lower your lectin consumption:
Note: It’s best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance, considering your health history and symptoms.
Lectin intolerance can cause digestive issues, fatigue, and brain fog in some individuals.
While lectins are found in various healthy foods, they can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
These plant proteins can bind to gut carbohydrates, potentially impacting nutrient absorption and causing discomfort.
Bloating, nausea, diarrhea, brain fog, anxiety, fatigue, skin issues, and disrupted sleep are potential signs of lectin intolerance.
Examples of high-lectin foods include red kidney beans, soybeans, wheat, peanuts, tomatoes, potatoes, and others.
Frequent antibiotic use, gut imbalances, leaky gut, plant-based diets high in lectins, and certain genes might increase the risk.
To reduce lectins, you can boil, soak, sprout, or choose processed beans. Depending on your sensitivity, you may also need to adjust your diet.
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/anti-nutrients/lectins/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-lectins
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10084985/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dietary-lectins
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FamilyTreeNow is a free and popular website designed to assist individuals in constructing their family trees and unearthing intriguing genealogical secrets. Offering access to a treasure trove of public records and a user-friendly family tree builder, FamilyTreeNow has sparked both excitement and controversy. From concerns about data accuracy to questions surrounding privacy, it’s a platform that has left users intrigued yet cautious. Here is everything you need to know about FamilyTreeNow, its services, data privacy concerns, and ways to opt out of their services.
FamilyTreeNow is a website that helps trace ancestries, build family trees, and get contact details of millions of individuals.
Launched in 2014, this genealogy website is based in Roseville, California, and has over 1.6 billion personal records in its database.
Yes. FamilyTreeNow is a free website allowing individuals to search for people and build and store their family tree without paying anything.
FamilyTreeNow offers two primary services – people finder and family tree builder.
Follow these easy steps to search for records on FamilyTreeNow’s database.
Below are the steps to use the family tree builder service.
Recommended for you: How to download your Family Tree DNA Raw Data?
Unlike other genealogy websites, FamilyTreeNow does not ask for a fee to utilize any of their services.
Some genealogy websites have free services but require customers to upgrade to premium services for a fee. FamilyTreeNow doesn’t offer such premium services either.
According to the website’s founders, their mission is to create the best genealogy website in the world that both amateur and professional genealogists can utilize.
The accuracy of FamilyTreeNow’s records depends on two factors.
The controversy surrounding FamilyTreeNow primarily revolves around the accessibility and potential misuse of personal information available on the site.
It has raised significant privacy concerns due to the ease with which personal details can be obtained.
Additionally, the website has been linked to cases of stalking and other malicious activities, sparking apprehension regarding the security and ethical implications of its services.
Furthermore, the owner of FamilyTreeNow, Dustin Weirich, has faced criticism for being unresponsive to requests for comment, which has fueled skepticism about the platform’s commitment to addressing privacy and security issues.
FamilyTreeNow’s website tells you exactly how you could opt out of its services, so your information isn’t visible to those who search for it.
Here are the detailed steps to opt out.
The internet is split in its opinion, having a free-to-access genealogy website.
Global genealogy enthusiasts are excited about having a free tool that helps them pursue their passion for genealogy.
However, a larger group of people are worried that this free database will give anyone access to your details, including your address, contact number, and relationships.
Here are some pros and cons of using FamilyTreeNow to help you make an informed decision.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unlimited free access to create a family tree and search for ancestry details | Risk of data privacy |
| Quick access to multiple public records all in one place | Since the database depends on open public records, it may be hard to eliminate inaccuracies and incomplete information |
| Advanced search features make it easy to narrow down search results | FamilyTreeNow does not have extensive customer support features like other paid websites |
https://www.familytreenow.com/
https://blog.incogni.com/family-tree-now-opt-out/
https://www.lifewire.com/family-tree-now-4129031
https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.familytreenow.com
Did you know that not all natural supplements are as safe as they seem? While some can offer health benefits, others might harm your liver, the most vital organ responsible for cleansing your body. NIH research has revealed that liver injury induced by herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) accounts for 20% of hepatotoxicity cases in the United States. This means being cautious about your supplements, which is crucial for safeguarding your liver health. Keep reading to explore 7 natural supplements that may cause liver damage, either directly or through interactions with other medications. Additionally, we’ll address liver damage signs, delve into liver-stressing vitamins, and provide practical supplement selection tips for liver health maintenance.
While many turn to natural supplements for improved health, some contain unexpected downsides.
It’s important to be aware of potential side effects, especially those impacting the vital liver.
Here are 7 commonly used supplements that, under certain circumstances, can harm your liver:
As mentioned earlier, herbal and dietary supplements contribute to 20% of hepatotoxicity cases in the US.
The research found significant culprits like anabolic steroids, green tea extract, and multi-ingredient nutritional supplements (MINS) as common causes.
Anabolic steroids, often sold as bodybuilding supplements, usually result in a prolonged cholestatic liver injury. A specific pattern in blood tests and liver tissue samples characterizes this type of injury.
On the flip side, green tea extract and similar products are prone to trigger acute liver injury, with symptoms closely mirroring those of hepatitis.
However, the majority of HDS-associated liver injuries are linked to MINS, where the specific toxic component is often unknown.
This poses challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Improved regulatory oversight is crucial to ensure the purity and safety of non-prescription products.
Collaboration among healthcare professionals, chemists, and toxicologists is essential to identifying and regulating harmful ingredients and promoting public safety.
Symptoms indicating potential liver function issues can appear in various ways.
Other symptoms include:
These indications could appear rapidly or gradually, depending on the cause and severity of liver injury.
It is vital to consult a physician promptly if you notice any of these signs so they can evaluate the condition and provide necessary treatment.
Vitamin A and niacin (vitamin B3) are the vitamins that are hard on the liver in high doses.
While most vitamins, when taken within recommended amounts, rarely cause liver harm, vitamin A and niacin can lead to distinctive forms of liver injury.
This risk arises because many vitamins, especially fat-soluble ones, are concentrated, metabolized, and stored in the liver.
Exceeding safe intake levels can overload the liver’s capacity to process these vitamins, resulting in liver damage.
Thus, caution should be exercised with vitamin A and niacin supplementation to prevent liver injury.
While some supplements may be effective in supporting liver health, it is important to talk to your doctor about it and only take those that are prescribed.
Be careful with some natural supplements, as they can hurt your liver.
Be cautious with kava, green tea extract, comfrey, chaparral, aloe vera, black cohosh, and echinacea supplements, especially if you have liver issues or take other medications.
Watch for signs like tiredness, yellow skin, or belly pain, which could mean liver damage.
Too much vitamin A and niacin can harm your liver. Before starting any new supplements, consult your doctor first.
Check what’s inside them and pick brands that have been properly tested and approved.
Eating healthy foods and living a good lifestyle is best for keeping your liver healthy. Only use supplements when you really need them.
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