Top Supplements for Liver Health: Milk Thistle, Omega-3, Vitamin E, and More
Explore the potential benefits of top supplements for liver health such as Milk Thistle, Vitamin E, Licorice Root Extract, Phyllanthus, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Curcumin, and Resveratrol. Learn about their efficacy and importance, and consult a healthcare provider before use.
Liver health
For liver health, several supplements have shown potential benefits based on scientific research:
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Milk Thistle (Silymarin): Milk thistle is one of the most common and well-researched supplements for liver health. The active component, silymarin, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties. It has been used for conditions like fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis12.
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Vitamin E: There is evidence that vitamin E can decrease the NAFLD activity score in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), although it might not improve fibrosis3.
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Licorice Root Extract (Glycyrrhizin): This has anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects that may benefit liver function, particularly in chronic hepatitis C and subacute hepatic failure2.
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Phyllanthus: This herbal preparation shows potential in clearing HBV markers with no major adverse effects. However, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to determine its efficacy on long-term outcomes like cirrhosis or liver cancer2.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fats can help reduce liver fat levels and inflammation, making them beneficial for NAFLD management4.
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Curcumin and Resveratrol: Polyphenols like curcumin (from turmeric) and resveratrol (found in grape skin) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support liver health4.
While these supplements can support liver health, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure safety and appropriateness for your specific health needs.
Footnotes
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