They have grown in popularity in recent years.
Turmeric supplements have been implicated in cases of liver injury, according to a recent US-based study published in The American Journal of Medicine in 2023. Previous research from Italy and case studies have also linked turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, to instances of liver damage. The study reviewed cases reported to the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) between 2004 and 2022, identifying 10 cases of liver injury associated with turmeric. Notably, all these cases occurred after 2011, with a significant uptick noted since 2017. Out of these cases, five patients required hospitalization, and one patient died due to acute liver failure.
Dr. Jay Hoofnagle, director of the Liver Disease Research Branch at NIDDK, highlighted that while turmeric itself is traditionally poorly absorbed by the body, modern formulations may have been altered to enhance absorption, potentially impacting liver health. The study found that individuals carrying a specific genetic marker, HLA-B*35:01, were disproportionately represented among those who experienced liver injury after turmeric supplementation. This genetic variant, present in about 6-7% of the population, is involved in immune system functions and may influence susceptibility to drug-induced liver injury.
The research also pointed out the interaction of phenolic compounds, such as curcumin, with liver function. Similar compounds in other herbal supplements have been linked to liver injuries, suggesting a broader concern regarding the bioactive nature of these substances and their effects on individuals with genetic predispositions.
Kristin Kirkpatrick, a registered dietitian at Cleveland Clinic, emphasized that the liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, making it susceptible to the effects of supplements like turmeric, especially when combined with enhancers like piperine. She noted the increasing prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which underscores the importance of cautious supplement use, considering their potential impacts on liver health.
In conclusion, while turmeric is popular for its perceived health benefits, caution is advised, particularly with its supplement form and combinations with other substances that could affect liver metabolism. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind turmeric-associated liver injury and to identify individuals at higher risk, such as those with specific genetic profiles. This underscores the importance of informed decision-making and monitoring when using turmeric supplements, especially in vulnerable populations.
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