Introduction

The hepatic organ occupies a significant place in the body and has over 500 functions. Some of these processes include digestion, synthesis of proteins, cholesterol synthesis, storage of vitamins and minerals and elimination of chemicals and toxins from the body. In seeking to keep their liver as healthy as possible or perhaps while addressing a known liver issue, many people will opt to take liver supplements. Two broad classifications of liver supplements are natural, food-based, and synthesised, chemically produced supplements. But which of them is more effective in providing adequate support to this vital organ? In the next few points, we highlight the benefits and drawbacks of consuming natural instead of synthetic liver supplements.

Natural Liver Supplements

Natural liver dietary supplements are made from natural sources, including whole foods and vegetables, medicinal plants and herbs, and other nutrient-rich ingredients. Some of the most common ingredients in these formulas include:

• Milk thistle: This is an active antioxidant element named silymarin that responds to inflammation in the liver and shields liver cells.

• Turmeric: It also minimises inflammation and oxidative stress, stabilising the enzymes and encouraging bile secretion in the liver.

• Beetroot: Nutrient-dense with antioxidants and enzymes that assist the body’s natural liver detoxification pathways.

• Dandelion root and leaf: Stimulates bile production and helps cleanse the liver to enhance its functions.

Pros

• Especially beneficial when it comes to the liver’s cleansing and regeneration of liver tissue.
• Increases antioxidant levels within the liver and helps to prevent inflammation.
• Facilitates the functioning of bile and stimulates enzymatic activity
• Aids in the flow of blood from the liver to the other organs contains nutrients essential to the liver.

Cons

• Some effects can be noticed after one or two weeks, while others will only be realised after using the medication for several weeks.
• A problem with capsules is that they can be large and difficult for some people to swallow.
• This is due to differences in the quality and the strength of the active components between different brands.

Synthetic Liver Supplements

Natural liver health products are found in nature, while synthetic liver health supplements are produced in the laboratory using artificial compounds. Among the ingredients of these formulations, Silymarin has been the subject of extensive research regarding its support for the liver. This is a purified form obtained from the milk thistle plant rich in the silymarin complex. Other synthetic nutrients, including vitamins, may also be added per the manufacturer's choice.

Pros

• It can supply more of the flavonoid silymarin than natural milk thistle.
• There is no compromise on the quality of the product, and the dosage remains the same regardless of the batches produced.
• If it is a small capsule, taking it in the throat is easier.
• Sometimes, it may be less costly than natural formulas.

Cons

• Fails to harness the combined benefits of whole food products
• For this reason, they may contain other chemical ingredients that are not essential.
• It poses the potential for side effects from isolated components.
• There is less information concerning the long-term safety of the systems.

Conclusion

As much as it concerns preserving the liver’s optimum functionality, food-derived supplements and chemically manufactured laboratory duplicates hold their unique benefits based on the consumers’ needs and preferences. Synthetic choices are extracted and focused to support liver health and concentration, while whole food formulations are more comprehensive and often take time to create benefits for the liver, reassuring you with a wealth of information about your liver health.

For all your protein and supplement needs, visit Genetic Nutrition!

FAQs

1. If you have to choose between natural and synthetic supplements, which one is more effective for the liver?

Whole food blends, on the other hand, work gradually over the next few weeks to enhance liver support. If you're looking for quick results, synthetic supplements may be preferred, but if you're focused on long-term liver health, whole-food blends are a comprehensive option.

2. Do side effects exist that patients should be cautious of?

Both types of supplements may cause discomfort to some individuals when taken in the right prescribed dosage. However, while the potent isolated chemicals in synthetic versions are prevalent and powerful, they are at very low risk of causing stomach upset and/or allergy in susceptible individuals. As a general rule, it is advisable to start taking the doses with a lesser amount.

3. Who may benefit from a liver health supplement?

Such supplements can be especially helpful to those who indulge in alcohol consumption, have to take medications on a regular basis, or are affected by toxic substances. Also, those who are prone to liver problems such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis may use supplements to prevent escalation with a doctor’s permission. However, those without any prior or existing liver issues can consume them for general health and to facilitate detoxification.

• Share on:
WhatsApp Deel Tweet Pin it Messenger Email