Health Experts Warn 76% Take Supplements Regularly as Daily Stacks Raise Liver and Kidney Risks
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 20
Health Experts Warn 76% Take Supplements Regularly as Daily Stacks Raise Liver and Kidney Risks
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 20
Summary
Nearly a fifth of people surveyed by Which? said they take four or more supplements daily, a pattern doctors say is driving more liver, kidney and gastrointestinal problems.
Experts told the BBC patients often do not count supplements as medication, leaving them unaware they may be duplicating ingredients, exceeding recommended doses or mixing products that reduce absorption or clash with prescriptions.
A 30-year-old Seattle influencer said a daily mix including high-dose vitamins C and D, turmeric and electrolytes led to a 2-3cm kidney stone that required surgery and cost her $6,000 with insurance.
Doctors flagged vitamin A, glutamine, ashwagandha and green tea extract as especially risky for the liver in high doses, while excess vitamin B6 can cause nerve damage and fat-soluble vitamins can build up in the body.
Nutritionists and GPs said supplements can help targeted deficiencies, but urged most healthy adults to prioritize food, check labels and seek medical advice rather than follow social-media marketing.