The liver health supplement industry is booming, with the top 10 best-selling supplements on Amazon bringing in an estimated $2.5 million each month. However, a recent study has found that none of these popular products contain ingredients recommended by major groups of doctors who treat liver issues in the United States or Europe.
One possible reason for the increase in sales of liver supplements is the rise in alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is important to note that these supplements are not regulated and do not have to meet the same safety and effectiveness standards as prescription medications.
According to the study, many manufacturers make bold claims about their supplements on Amazon, such as maintaining normal liver function and being scientifically formulated. However, these claims are not backed up by rigorous clinical research.
Some people may believe that natural supplements are safe, but as one doctor points out, just because something is natural doesn't mean it's safe. For example, there have been concerns about liver toxicity from supplements with high concentrations of turmeric.
The study analyzed the top 10 liver supplements sold on Amazon and found that most of them contain ingredients with historical uses linked to liver health. However, there is currently a lack of strong scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of these supplements.
The researchers also discovered that a significant number of product reviews on Amazon were not genuine. Only 65% of the reviews analyzed were found to be authentic.
While liver disease remains a significant global health burden, there is currently no curative treatment for liver cirrhosis. This lack of treatment options and the desperation to find relief often drives patients towards alternative therapies, such as liver detox supplements.
In conclusion, there is a strong need for rigorous scientific investigation into the actual health benefits of liver detox supplements. Patient education is also crucial to inform them of the potential risks and unknowns associated with these products.