Dietary Supplements: Growing Popularity and Hidden Risks

A 2022 study in the Liver Transplantation journal found that cases of liver failure caused by herbal and dietary supplements have increased eight times between 1995 and 2020.

While the supplement industry is booming, experts warn that these pills and powders can pose serious health risks. Many products are mislabeled, contaminated, or contain ingredients that can harm the liver.

How Common Is Supplement Use?

• Over-the-counter supplements like multivitamins, calcium, and fish oil are widely available.
• According to a 2017–18 survey, 58% of U.S. adults used dietary supplements.
• By 2024, this number increased to 75% of adults taking supplements regularly.

Supplements Linked to Liver Damage

University of Michigan researchers found that 15.6 million Americans use supplements containing at least one of the following ingredients, which may cause liver damage:
✔ Turmeric
✔ Green tea
✔ Ashwagandha
✔ Garcinia cambogia
✔ Red yeast rice
✔ Black cohosh

Mislabeling and Contamination Issues

A previous study revealed that nearly 50% of supplements had incorrect labels, meaning the ingredients listed were not always accurate. Researchers called this “alarming,” saying that buying a supplement is like flipping a coin—you might not be getting what you expect.

Some studies have also found toxic heavy metals in certain supplements.

Who Regulates Supplements?

The FDA does not test supplements for safety, quality, or effectiveness before they hit the market. Unlike medications, supplements are classified as food, and it’s up to manufacturers to ensure proper labeling.

How to Stay Safe

✅ Consult a doctor before taking supplements.
✅ Stick to recommended daily limits—for example, adults should not consume more than 100 micrograms of vitamin D per day.
✅ Avoid megadosing—taking extremely high doses for quick results can be harmful.

While supplements can be helpful, misuse or poor-quality products can cause serious health issues. Always choose trusted brands and seek medical advice before adding supplements to your routine.