Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

These Everyday Foods Are Causing Your Worst Smelliest Farts

Let’s face it—there’s no polite way to talk about farts. Yet, every single one of us does it, and sometimes, the smell can clear a room faster than a fire alarm. Medically known as flatus, this bodily function is entirely natural. However, the odor intensity often triggers embarrassment, confusion, or concern. So why do some farts smell worse than others? The surprising culprit often lies in our daily diet.

Although they're a part of daily life, flatulence is still a mystery to most people. This article goes in-depth into the biology behind gas, gut bacteria, and more importantly, how your ordinary foods you consume may be turning your farts appallingly smelly—despite them being otherwise healthy.

Flatulence is the ultimate product of a multifaceted digestive process. When we eat, it's digested in multiple stages. But some carbohydrates pass through the stomach and small intestine unabsorbed. These carbs travel to the colon, where there exists an enormous community of bacteria—particularly from the phylum Firmicutes—willingly fermenting them.

The process of fermentation yields a combination of gases like hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, which are largely odorless. However, when foods that contain sulfur are fermented, the bacteria emit hydrogen sulfide, a strong-smelling compound with a rotten egg odor.

Surprisingly, nearly 99% of all gas in the intestines is odorless, but it's that 1%—usually sulfur compounds—that produces malodors. Interestingly, the amount of gas isn't really relative to the strength of its odor.

<h2>Foods Behind Foul-Smelling Farts</h2>

Below is the list of typical foods that might be behind your worst gas—and the reasons why.

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are fiber and antioxidant powerhouses, but they contain sulfur compounds and insoluble carbs in abundance. When gut bacteria are indulged on these difficult-to-digest sugars, they emit hydrogen sulfide, leading to gas with a rotten egg or sulfur-like odor.

This does not mean that you should exclude these vegetables from your diet—they're great for hormone balance and detoxification. However, if you eat them in huge amounts without moderation, they can transform your gut into a gas chamber.

Beans have been joked about for years for their gas-producing properties, and science confirms it. Beans, lentils, and peas contain raffinose and stachyose, sugars that our bodies do not have the enzyme to break down. These arrive in the colon undigested and offer rich fuel for bacteria, which create a combination of methane and sulfur gases during fermentation.

Legumes are healthy and a must in plant-based meals, but if they are well soaked before preparation and mixed with digestion-friendly spices such as ginger or cumin, their gassy effect afterwards can be minimized.

Whole wheat bread, oats, and bran are loaded with insoluble fiber, promoting digestive health. But because this fiber resists digestion, it gets fermented in the colon—producing gas. The good news? Your body can adjust. If you’re increasing your fiber intake, do it gradually and drink plenty of water. For every 5 grams of added fiber, up your fluid intake by 8 ounces to prevent bloating and smelly gas.

Milk, cheese, and yogurt have lactose, a sugar that most adults cannot digest easily because they have low lactase enzyme levels. For people who are lactose intolerant, this unabsorbed lactose is fuel for gas-producing bacteria, sometimes causing smelly flatulence.

If you think that dairy is the problem but don't want to eliminate it from your diet, use lactose-free versions or lactase tablets and observe whether your symptoms get better.

These innocent-looking snacks have fructose and sorbitol, natural sugars that can lead to gas in sensitive people. Healthy in moderation, they can lead to stink when the body is not able to fully digest them, especially if the composition of your gut microbiome is more susceptible to these fermentable sugars.

Protein is important for muscle repair and growth, but overconsumption—particularly from protein powders, bars, and meats—is stressing the digestive system. Excess protein that the body isn't able to absorb in the small intestine gets fermented by colonic bacteria, which release volatile sulfur compounds responsible for particularly pungent emissions.

Follow the daily recommended intake: roughly 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, unless a doctor says otherwise.

Flatulence is enormously different from one individual to another. Two people might have the same same meal and have utterly different results, all due to variations in gut microbiome, enzyme function, food intolerance, and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or lactose intolerance.

Medical professionals observe that unless flatulence is greatly impacting your life, there's no cause for alarm. Farting, even the stinky variety, indicates a healthy digestive system. But if you have ongoing bloating, abdominal pain, or a sudden change in bowel movements, it's best to seek the advice of a healthcare provider.

Stinky farts may be embarrassing, but they're also giving you a message about your digestive system. It's not about cutting out fiber, beans, and protein, but learning how to balance your consumption, fuel your gut with water and probiotics, and pay attention to your body's response. So, the next time you break one out, don't just fault the broccoli. Fault the bacteria—and perhaps reconsider that third bowl of lentil soup.

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Let’s face it—there’s no polite way to talk about farts. Yet, every single one of us does it, and sometimes, the smell can clear a room faster than a fire alarm. Medically known as flatus, this bodily function is entirely natural. However, the odor intensity often triggers embarrassment, confusion, or concern. So why do some farts smell worse than others? The surprising culprit often lies in our daily diet.Although they're a part of daily life, flatulence is still a mystery to most people. This article goes in-depth into the biology behind gas, gut bacteria, and more importantly, how your ordinary foods you consume may be turning your farts appallingly smelly—despite them being otherwise healthy.Flatulence is the ultimate product of a multifaceted digestive process. When we eat, it's digested in multiple stages. But some carbohydrates pass through the stomach and small intestine unabsorbed. These carbs travel to the colon, where there exists an enormous community of bacteria—particularly from the phylum Firmicutes—willingly fermenting them.The process of fermentation yields a combination of gases like hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, which are largely odorless. However, when foods that contain sulfur are fermented, the bacteria emit hydrogen sulfide, a strong-smelling compound with a rotten egg odor.Surprisingly, nearly 99% of all gas in the intestines is odorless, but it's that 1%—usually sulfur compounds—that produces malodors. Interestingly, the amount of gas isn't really relative to the strength of its odor.Foods Behind Foul-Smelling FartsBelow is the list of typical foods that might be behind your worst gas—and the reasons why.1. Cruciferous VegetablesBroccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are fiber and antioxidant powerhouses, but they contain sulfur compounds and insoluble carbs in abundance. When gut bacteria are indulged on these difficult-to-digest sugars, they emit hydrogen sulfide, leading to gas with a rotten egg or sulfur-like odor.This does not mean that you should exclude these vegetables from your diet—they're great for hormone balance and detoxification. However, if you eat them in huge amounts without moderation, they can transform your gut into a gas chamber.2. Beans and LegumesBeans have been joked about for years for their gas-producing properties, and science confirms it. Beans, lentils, and peas contain raffinose and stachyose, sugars that our bodies do not have the enzyme to break down. These arrive in the colon undigested and offer rich fuel for bacteria, which create a combination of methane and sulfur gases during fermentation.Legumes are healthy and a must in plant-based meals, but if they are well soaked before preparation and mixed with digestion-friendly spices such as ginger or cumin, their gassy effect afterwards can be minimized.3. Whole GrainsWhole wheat bread, oats, and bran are loaded with insoluble fiber, promoting digestive health. But because this fiber resists digestion, it gets fermented in the colon—producing gas. The good news? Your body can adjust. If you’re increasing your fiber intake, do it gradually and drink plenty of water. For every 5 grams of added fiber, up your fluid intake by 8 ounces to prevent bloating and smelly gas.4. Milk ProductsMilk, cheese, and yogurt have lactose, a sugar that most adults cannot digest easily because they have low lactase enzyme levels. For people who are lactose intolerant, this unabsorbed lactose is fuel for gas-producing bacteria, sometimes causing smelly flatulence.If you think that dairy is the problem but don't want to eliminate it from your diet, use lactose-free versions or lactase tablets and observe whether your symptoms get better.5. Apples, Bananas, and PeachesThese innocent-looking snacks have fructose and sorbitol, natural sugars that can lead to gas in sensitive people. Healthy in moderation, they can lead to stink when the body is not able to fully digest them, especially if the composition of your gut microbiome is more susceptible to these fermentable sugars.6. Protein OverloadProtein is important for muscle repair and growth, but overconsumption—particularly from protein powders, bars, and meats—is stressing the digestive system. Excess protein that the body isn't able to absorb in the small intestine gets fermented by colonic bacteria, which release volatile sulfur compounds responsible for particularly pungent emissions.Follow the daily recommended intake: roughly 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, unless a doctor says otherwise.Flatulence is enormously different from one individual to another. Two people might have the same same meal and have utterly different results, all due to variations in gut microbiome, enzyme function, food intolerance, and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or lactose intolerance.Medical professionals observe that unless flatulence is greatly impacting your life, there's no cause for alarm. Farting, even the stinky variety, indicates a healthy digestive system. But if you have ongoing bloating, abdominal pain, or a sudden change in bowel movements, it's best to seek the advice of a healthcare provider.Stinky farts may be embarrassing, but they're also giving you a message about your digestive system. It's not about cutting out fiber, beans, and protein, but learning how to balance your consumption, fuel your gut with water and probiotics, and pay attention to your body's response. So, the next time you break one out, don't just fault the broccoli. Fault the bacteria—and perhaps reconsider that third bowl of lentil soup.

these everyday foods are causing your worst smelliest farts

Aarushi Bhadury

Unlikely Food That Could Promote Longevity According to Health Expert

(Credit-Canva)

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Couscous Is More Processed Than You Think—But It's Still Healthy. Here's Why

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The conversation about food and longevity has been a point of debate for many people. As experts and doctors warn us about how processed foods cause harm to our bodies. Recent studies have shown that not only do these foods harm our bodies, but they also cause our bodies to age faster. While our chronological age stays the same, our organs are aging much more. Hence it is smart to eat foods that help our bodies stay strong and promote longevity. 

One such snack that may surprise you in terms of health is something we all love to enjoy with a nice movie or a show: Popcorn. 

According to health experts and researchers, air-popped popcorn could even be the "best" snack to eat if you're aiming for a long and healthy life past 100. Researchers have extensively studied the lifestyle habits of people living in "Blue Zones," which are regions around the world where people consistently live longer and healthier lives, such as Sardinia in Italy and Okinawa in Japan. 

<h2>Why Is Popcorn A Great Healthy Snack?</h2>

Buettner states that air-popped popcorn is full of fiber, complex carbohydrates, and surprisingly, contains more of beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols than many vegetables. He notes that plain, sugar-free popcorn is a very affordable snack that could potentially lower your risk of various illnesses and diseases. 

The researcher emphasizes that popcorn's benefits are best realized when it's part of an overall balanced diet and combined with other healthy habits. These include regular exercise, limiting alcohol, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. He also points out that popcorn is affordable, easy to make and store, and importantly, it tastes good. 

BBC Good Food explains that popcorn is made from corn kernels that puff up when heated. They highlight that air-popped popcorn is the best option for those wanting a healthy snack because it only uses heat and avoids unhealthy additions like butter or oil, which add extra calories. 

The BBC also notes that plain, air-popped popcorn is low in fat and high in fiber. As a whole grain, it can help protect against heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Its high fiber content also promotes good digestion and helps people in Britain reach their recommended daily fiber intake, which many currently fall short of, according to the NHS. 

Due to its substantial fiber content, popcorn is a great snack for those watching their calories. It's a satisfying option that helps you feel full, potentially preventing overeating and reducing guilt about snacking. Studies have even shown that a small amount of popcorn can be as filling as a much larger amount of crisps (potato chips). 

As highlighted by Dan Buettner, popcorn is a good source of polyphenols, the same beneficial compounds found in many fruits and vegetables. These compounds are known for their potential to reduce the risk of cancer and improve overall health. Research has found that popcorn can contain a significant amount of polyphenols per serving, even more than some fruits and vegetables, and these are mainly found in the popcorn hulls. 

You can easily and affordably make your own healthy popcorn at home using kernels from any supermarket. Air-popping on the stove or in the microwave without oil or butter is the key to keeping it healthy. Many online recipes can guide you through this simple process. 

While homemade, air-popped popcorn offers health benefits, it's important to remember that movie theater popcorn is often very different. You have no control over how it's prepared or what's added, and it typically contains extra sugar and salt to enhance flavor. Consuming too much sodium and sugar can lead to serious health problems like heart conditions, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and liver damage, negating the potential benefits of plain popcorn.

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The conversation about food and longevity has been a point of debate for many people. As experts and doctors warn us about how processed foods cause harm to our bodies. Recent studies have shown that not only do these foods harm our bodies, but they also cause our bodies to age faster. While our chronological age stays the same, our organs are aging much more. Hence it is smart to eat foods that help our bodies stay strong and promote longevity. One such snack that may surprise you in terms of health is something we all love to enjoy with a nice movie or a show: Popcorn. According to health experts and researchers, air-popped popcorn could even be the "best" snack to eat if you're aiming for a long and healthy life past 100. Researchers have extensively studied the lifestyle habits of people living in "Blue Zones," which are regions around the world where people consistently live longer and healthier lives, such as Sardinia in Italy and Okinawa in Japan. Why Is Popcorn A Great Healthy Snack?Buettner states that air-popped popcorn is full of fiber, complex carbohydrates, and surprisingly, contains more of beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols than many vegetables. He notes that plain, sugar-free popcorn is a very affordable snack that could potentially lower your risk of various illnesses and diseases. The researcher emphasizes that popcorn's benefits are best realized when it's part of an overall balanced diet and combined with other healthy habits. These include regular exercise, limiting alcohol, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. He also points out that popcorn is affordable, easy to make and store, and importantly, it tastes good. BBC Good Food explains that popcorn is made from corn kernels that puff up when heated. They highlight that air-popped popcorn is the best option for those wanting a healthy snack because it only uses heat and avoids unhealthy additions like butter or oil, which add extra calories. Health Benefits of Popcorn The BBC also notes that plain, air-popped popcorn is low in fat and high in fiber. As a whole grain, it can help protect against heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Its high fiber content also promotes good digestion and helps people in Britain reach their recommended daily fiber intake, which many currently fall short of, according to the NHS. Due to its substantial fiber content, popcorn is a great snack for those watching their calories. It's a satisfying option that helps you feel full, potentially preventing overeating and reducing guilt about snacking. Studies have even shown that a small amount of popcorn can be as filling as a much larger amount of crisps (potato chips). As highlighted by Dan Buettner, popcorn is a good source of polyphenols, the same beneficial compounds found in many fruits and vegetables. These compounds are known for their potential to reduce the risk of cancer and improve overall health. Research has found that popcorn can contain a significant amount of polyphenols per serving, even more than some fruits and vegetables, and these are mainly found in the popcorn hulls. Making Popcorn At Home You can easily and affordably make your own healthy popcorn at home using kernels from any supermarket. Air-popping on the stove or in the microwave without oil or butter is the key to keeping it healthy. Many online recipes can guide you through this simple process. While homemade, air-popped popcorn offers health benefits, it's important to remember that movie theater popcorn is often very different. You have no control over how it's prepared or what's added, and it typically contains extra sugar and salt to enhance flavor. Consuming too much sodium and sugar can lead to serious health problems like heart conditions, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and liver damage, negating the potential benefits of plain popcorn.

unlikely food that could promote longevity according to health expert

Riya Baibhawi

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Once considered purely a North African delicacy, <span>couscous</span> is a processed grain that offers nutritional benefits in form of selenium and plant-based <span>protein</span>. However, this grain contains gluten, making it not suitable for everyone. So, should we consume couscous?

<h2>Nutritional Benefits of Couscous</h2>

One of the standout nutrients in couscous is selenium. A single cup (157 grams) offers over 60% of the recommended daily intake. Selenium is a crucial mineral with several health benefits—it acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cellular repair, and reduces inflammation. It also plays a key role in maintaining thyroid health by aiding hormone production and protecting the thyroid gland from damage. Additionally, selenium may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering oxidative stress and preventing plaque buildup in arteries.

The selenium content in couscous could also contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Findings from a review involving more than 350,000 participants indicate that higher selenium levels in the blood—primarily from dietary sources—may offer protection against specific cancers. Notably, selenium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, and a combination of adequate selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E may lower lung cancer risk among smokers.

Couscous may give your immune system a boost, thanks again to its selenium content. Selenium enhances immunity by reducing oxidative stress and supporting immune cell function. It also assists in regenerating vitamins C and E, which play a role in strengthening immune responses.

Protein makes up around 16–20% of the human body and is essential for metabolic processes. Couscous provides about 6 grams of plant-based protein per one-cup serving. While it is not a complete protein—meaning it doesn't contain all essential amino acids in adequate amounts—it can be paired with other plant-based proteins to form a balanced vegetarian or vegan diet. Diets high in plant-based protein have been linked to lower risks of stroke, cancer, and heart disease-related deaths.

Often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, couscous is made from whole-wheat flour and is quick to prepare. Most supermarket versions are pre-steamed and dried; they only require the addition of boiling water or broth followed by fluffing with a fork. Light and fluffy when cooked, couscous easily absorbs the flavours of other ingredients and pairs well with salads, meats, vegetables, or other grains like <span>quinoa</span> and brown rice.

<h2>Things You Should Consider Before </h2>

Couscous is made from semolina, a product of durum wheat, and therefore contains gluten. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Could Raise <span>Blood Sugar</span> Levels

With 36 grams of carbohydrates per cup and minimal protein, couscous may cause blood sugar spikes—particularly a concern for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. Combining it with protein-rich foods or those high in soluble fibre can help mitigate this effect.

While couscous contains small amounts of fibre, potassium, and other nutrients, it falls short compared to other whole grains like quinoa, oats, or brown rice. Foods such as avocados, bananas, and potatoes are richer sources of potassium, which supports healthy blood flow and may reduce the risk of stroke.

Couscous, with its high selenium content, offers several health benefits, including immune support and a potential reduced risk of cancer. However, it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with gluten intolerance or blood sugar concerns. For those who tolerate gluten, couscous remains a convenient, versatile grain option worth including in a balanced diet.

Diet & Nutrition

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Once considered purely a North African delicacy, couscous is a processed grain that offers nutritional benefits in form of selenium and plant-based protein. However, this grain contains gluten, making it not suitable for everyone. So, should we consume couscous?Nutritional Benefits of CouscousRich in SeleniumOne of the standout nutrients in couscous is selenium. A single cup (157 grams) offers over 60% of the recommended daily intake. Selenium is a crucial mineral with several health benefits—it acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cellular repair, and reduces inflammation. It also plays a key role in maintaining thyroid health by aiding hormone production and protecting the thyroid gland from damage. Additionally, selenium may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering oxidative stress and preventing plaque buildup in arteries.May Help Lower Cancer RiskThe selenium content in couscous could also contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Findings from a review involving more than 350,000 participants indicate that higher selenium levels in the blood—primarily from dietary sources—may offer protection against specific cancers. Notably, selenium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, and a combination of adequate selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E may lower lung cancer risk among smokers.Boosts the Immune SystemCouscous may give your immune system a boost, thanks again to its selenium content. Selenium enhances immunity by reducing oxidative stress and supporting immune cell function. It also assists in regenerating vitamins C and E, which play a role in strengthening immune responses.Good Source of Plant-Based ProteinProtein makes up around 16–20% of the human body and is essential for metabolic processes. Couscous provides about 6 grams of plant-based protein per one-cup serving. While it is not a complete protein—meaning it doesn't contain all essential amino acids in adequate amounts—it can be paired with other plant-based proteins to form a balanced vegetarian or vegan diet. Diets high in plant-based protein have been linked to lower risks of stroke, cancer, and heart disease-related deaths.Very Easy to PrepareOften seen as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, couscous is made from whole-wheat flour and is quick to prepare. Most supermarket versions are pre-steamed and dried; they only require the addition of boiling water or broth followed by fluffing with a fork. Light and fluffy when cooked, couscous easily absorbs the flavours of other ingredients and pairs well with salads, meats, vegetables, or other grains like quinoa and brown rice.Things You Should Consider Before High in GlutenCouscous is made from semolina, a product of durum wheat, and therefore contains gluten. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.Could Raise Blood Sugar LevelsWith 36 grams of carbohydrates per cup and minimal protein, couscous may cause blood sugar spikes—particularly a concern for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. Combining it with protein-rich foods or those high in soluble fibre can help mitigate this effect.Lower in Some Key NutrientsWhile couscous contains small amounts of fibre, potassium, and other nutrients, it falls short compared to other whole grains like quinoa, oats, or brown rice. Foods such as avocados, bananas, and potatoes are richer sources of potassium, which supports healthy blood flow and may reduce the risk of stroke.The TakeawayCouscous, with its high selenium content, offers several health benefits, including immune support and a potential reduced risk of cancer. However, it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with gluten intolerance or blood sugar concerns. For those who tolerate gluten, couscous remains a convenient, versatile grain option worth including in a balanced diet.

The Dangers Of Taking Too Many Supplements For Your Liver

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Thinking about taking supplements to boost your well-being quest? You're not the only one. As worldwide sales of supplements are expected to exceed $230 billion by 2027, they've become the face of preventive health. But experts are now sounding the alarm about a less obvious risk—the silent effect they have on your liver.

From daily vitamin pills to herbal powders that claim to deliver everything from healthy skin to improved concentration, supplements are frequently perceived as benign. But the reality is, when taken excessively or without instruction, they may be doing more damage than good—particularly to one of your body's most critical organs: your liver.

Your liver is your body's biochemical sorting center. It sifts through everything from food to poisons to medicines—and, yes, supplements.

As per Dr. Karan Rajan, a well-known UK surgeon and educator with more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram, even natural supplements undergo liver metabolism. "That means your liver breaks them down with enzymes, which impacts how hard it has to work," he says. When your liver is overwhelmed, your liver cannot detoxify the body effectively, and there is a higher risk of inflammation, scarring, or worse—acute liver injury.

In a recent case cited by Dr. Rajan, a female patient developed organ failure following consumption of supplements aimed at hair and nail growth. "Just don't turn your liver into a science fair project gone wrong," he cautioned in a now-famous video.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dietary supplements comprise:

<strong>Vitamins</strong>: A, C, D, B-complex

<strong>Minerals</strong>: Magnesium, calcium

<strong>Herbal compounds</strong>: Elderberry, ginger

<strong>Botanical powders</strong>: Green powders, turmeric blends

<strong>Probiotics</strong>: Live bacteria or yeasts that aid digestive system health

Supplements have been a daily fill for many people. Be it vitamin C as an immunity boost during the flu season or B12 for that energy drive, individuals look toward pills in anticipation of a good meal. Without proper checks and balances, the practice tends to go downhill fast into becoming a health risk.

The risk isn't necessarily in the supplement itself—but in the amount you take and how it affects other substances in your body.

"More isn't always better," warns Dr. Rajan. "Excessive doses of even simple vitamins like vitamin A can cause liver damage or brain pressure."

Vitamin D overdose: Can increase blood levels of calcium, leading to kidney issues and changed mental status.

Unregulated herbal mixes: May create unknown chemical interactions, especially if you’re taking multiple at once.

Drug interactions: Supplements like St. John’s Wort can interfere with antidepressants or blood thinners.

With so many supplements flooding the market, choosing a safe one can feel like a gamble. Flashy packaging and bold health claims are not enough.

Dr. Rajan suggests checking for third-party certifications. Labels such as (e.g., USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab) mean that the product has been independently tested to be of good quality, purity, and accuracy of ingredient descriptions. Although no certification can absolutely ensure 100% safety, it significantly lessens your risk of taking something potentially toxic to the liver.

<h2>How to Take Supplements the Right Way?</h2>

So does it mean you must abandon supplements altogether? No. Properly planned, supplements can be useful. Here's how to do it safely and responsibly:

<h4>1. Talk to a Healthcare Professional First</h4>

Don't start adding anything to your routine without first talking to a physician or registered dietitian. They can check whether you actually need it, particularly if taking prescription meds such as statins, antidepressants, or anti-epileptics.

Beginning a new supplement? Have your doctor perform liver function tests (LFTs). This establishes a baseline and allows you to track how your liver reacts over time.

This FDA and NIH-supported database contains in-depth case reports on how drugs and supplements impact the liver. Supplements graded Grade A, B, or C need to be treated with additional caution.

<h4>4. Don't Mix Multiple Supplements</h4>

Taking more than one herbal supplement or taking high doses of several vitamins at once can have synergistic toxicity. Unless prescribed by a professional, keep it simple and concentrated.

Supplements aren't bad in themselves—but taking them without knowing how they'll affect your liver might be very bad indeed, sometimes causing irreversible damage. As consumer interest increases, so should awareness and prudence.

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Thinking about taking supplements to boost your well-being quest? You're not the only one. As worldwide sales of supplements are expected to exceed $230 billion by 2027, they've become the face of preventive health. But experts are now sounding the alarm about a less obvious risk—the silent effect they have on your liver.From daily vitamin pills to herbal powders that claim to deliver everything from healthy skin to improved concentration, supplements are frequently perceived as benign. But the reality is, when taken excessively or without instruction, they may be doing more damage than good—particularly to one of your body's most critical organs: your liver.Your liver is your body's biochemical sorting center. It sifts through everything from food to poisons to medicines—and, yes, supplements.As per Dr. Karan Rajan, a well-known UK surgeon and educator with more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram, even natural supplements undergo liver metabolism. "That means your liver breaks them down with enzymes, which impacts how hard it has to work," he says. When your liver is overwhelmed, your liver cannot detoxify the body effectively, and there is a higher risk of inflammation, scarring, or worse—acute liver injury.In a recent case cited by Dr. Rajan, a female patient developed organ failure following consumption of supplements aimed at hair and nail growth. "Just don't turn your liver into a science fair project gone wrong," he cautioned in a now-famous video.What Constitutes a Supplement?According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dietary supplements comprise:Vitamins: A, C, D, B-complexMinerals: Magnesium, calciumHerbal compounds: Elderberry, gingerBotanical powders: Green powders, turmeric blendsProbiotics: Live bacteria or yeasts that aid digestive system healthSupplements have been a daily fill for many people. Be it vitamin C as an immunity boost during the flu season or B12 for that energy drive, individuals look toward pills in anticipation of a good meal. Without proper checks and balances, the practice tends to go downhill fast into becoming a health risk.The risk isn't necessarily in the supplement itself—but in the amount you take and how it affects other substances in your body."More isn't always better," warns Dr. Rajan. "Excessive doses of even simple vitamins like vitamin A can cause liver damage or brain pressure."        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr Karan Rajan (MRCS MBBS BSc) (@drkaranrajan)]]>Other risks that are known include:Vitamin D overdose: Can increase blood levels of calcium, leading to kidney issues and changed mental status.Unregulated herbal mixes: May create unknown chemical interactions, especially if you’re taking multiple at once.Drug interactions: Supplements like St. John’s Wort can interfere with antidepressants or blood thinners.With so many supplements flooding the market, choosing a safe one can feel like a gamble. Flashy packaging and bold health claims are not enough.Dr. Rajan suggests checking for third-party certifications. Labels such as (e.g., USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab) mean that the product has been independently tested to be of good quality, purity, and accuracy of ingredient descriptions. Although no certification can absolutely ensure 100% safety, it significantly lessens your risk of taking something potentially toxic to the liver.How to Take Supplements the Right Way?So does it mean you must abandon supplements altogether? No. Properly planned, supplements can be useful. Here's how to do it safely and responsibly:1. Talk to a Healthcare Professional FirstDon't start adding anything to your routine without first talking to a physician or registered dietitian. They can check whether you actually need it, particularly if taking prescription meds such as statins, antidepressants, or anti-epileptics.2. Get Your Blood Work DoneBeginning a new supplement? Have your doctor perform liver function tests (LFTs). This establishes a baseline and allows you to track how your liver reacts over time.3. Consult ExpertThis FDA and NIH-supported database contains in-depth case reports on how drugs and supplements impact the liver. Supplements graded Grade A, B, or C need to be treated with additional caution.4. Don't Mix Multiple SupplementsTaking more than one herbal supplement or taking high doses of several vitamins at once can have synergistic toxicity. Unless prescribed by a professional, keep it simple and concentrated.Supplements aren't bad in themselves—but taking them without knowing how they'll affect your liver might be very bad indeed, sometimes causing irreversible damage. As consumer interest increases, so should awareness and prudence.

the dangers of taking too many supplements for your liver

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