omega-3 supplements (Photo : Twitter)
A number of supplements available in the market may increase the risk of cardiac arrest, cancer and damage to several organs in the body of the consumer. These are the findings of a new study conducted by a team of doctors and investigators led by Consumer Reports.
According to the results of the Consumer Reports study, the ingredients that cause the damage are present in a multitude of supplements that are easily available in the market. In fact, a majority of these are available at major online and retail stores such as Costco, Whole Foods, GNC, CVS and Walmart.
During the study, the panel of dietary-supplement researchers and independent doctors recruited by Consumer Reports identified 15 supplement ingredients that pose potential risk to the health of the individuals. According to Consumer Reports, the severity of the health risks depends on the concentration of the ingredient consumed and the current health status of the consumer, in addition to the length of exposure.
The researchers believe that a majority of these ingredients also has the potential to interact with commonly available over-the-counter medications and prescription medicines, including cholesterol-lowering statins and drugs that make the blood thin such as warfarin and aspirin.
The ingredients identified by the researchers include caffeine powder, aconite, coltsfoot, chaparral, comfrey, greater celandine, germander, kava, Lobelia, green tea extract powder, pennyroyal oil, methylsenephrine, red yeast rice, Yohimbe and usnic acid. The team believes that none of these ingredients have health benefits that exceed the potential risks associated with its consumption.
Yohimbe, which is also known as "herbal viagra," is commonly added to supplements that intend to treat erectile dysfunction and low libido in men. According to the analysis conducted by the team, this ingredient can cause seizures and problems associated with the lives and the kidneys. In worst case scenarios, it may even lead to the death of the individual.
On the other hand, green tea extract powder can lead to glaucoma, liver damage and anemia, in addition to the fatality. This substance is commonly added to herbal products that claim natural weight loss. Similarly, Kava may increase the risk of depression and Parkinson's disease, while the product containing this ingredient is used to improve insomnia and anxiety.
The following video described the truth about herbal supplements:
