A prominent cardiologist has highlighted several supplements that could potentially elevate the risk of heart attacks and liver damage.
Dr. Evan Levine, based at Mount Sinai in New York, shared with DailyMail.com that certain vitamin and herbal supplements might inflict long-term harm on the body.
He also pointed out that specific gel capsules can adversely affect heart health, leading to the possibility of strokes.
According to the CDC, more than 800,000 individuals in the U.S. face heart attacks or strokes annually.
In 2020, approximately 138,000 Americans succumbed to strokes, while a heart disease-related death occurs every 33 seconds. Alarmingly, a growing number of younger adults have reported heart attacks lately.
As of now, about five million Americans are living with some form of liver disease, with nearly 60,000 annual deaths attributed to liver failure.
While taking supplements often seems like a healthy choice, incorrect usage could lead to more harm than benefit.
Here are five supplements Dr. Levine cautioned against for their potential dangers to heart and liver health:
Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Niacin, or Vitamin B3, is crucial for numerous bodily functions, like energy production and regulating the nervous system, skin, and digestion.
It’s usually found in foods like red meat, fish, brown rice, nuts, seeds, legumes, and bananas.
Sometimes, it’s recommended as a supplement for those battling high cholesterol and arthritis.
However, Dr. Levine warns that niacin can harm the heart by triggering inflammation, leading to damage in blood cells.
A 2024 study published in Nature Medicine found that niacin intake could double the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers noted that this supplement can generate plaque in arteries, damaging blood vessels and hindering blood flow.
Experts recommend a daily niacin intake of 14–18 mg for adults, with doses between 2,000 and 6,000 mg potentially causing significant heart issues.
High amounts of Vitamin B3 may also lead to liver toxicity and hepatitis, along with other severe health problems, including liver failure.
Dr. Levine added that symptoms of excess niacin range from mild side effects, like dry skin, to serious issues, such as liver damage and birth defects in pregnant women.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea and its extract are rich in antioxidants that may boost heart, liver, and brain health, while also lowering cancer risks.
An average capsule of green tea extract holds the equivalent active ingredients found in a typical cup of green tea.
Despite the benefits, Dr. Levine cautions against consuming excessive green tea extract, as it may be harmful to liver health.
He explained that while green tea itself is generally safe when consumed as a drink, concentrated extracts, especially in high doses, can pose risks to liver health.
Liver injuries often occur in the liver cells directly and can range from mild enzyme elevations to severe complications requiring transplants.
Research has indicated that high amounts of green tea antioxidants, particularly EGCG, can overwhelm the liver, causing damage.
While such damage is rare among healthy individuals, those with existing health concerns like anemia, heart conditions, or liver issues face a heightened risk.
The European Food Safety Authority warns that doses of green tea extract exceeding 800 mg daily could be perilous, particularly for individuals using blood thinners or medications for heart issues.
Erythritol and Xylitol
Erythritol and xylitol are popular zero-calorie sweeteners found in keto-friendly snacks and sugar-free products.
Both sweeteners, approved by the FDA as safe for use, help manage blood sugar levels in diabetics and promote dental health.
However, Dr. Levine cautions that these additives might increase the risk of heart attacks and blood clotting.
He noted that erythritol and xylitol can enhance platelet aggregation, thereby raising the chances of cardiovascular events.
A study from the Cleveland Clinic in 2024 revealed that using xylitol could increase the likelihood of blood clots and heart attacks within three years of consumption.
Similarly, another 2023 study from the Cleveland Clinic found that individuals with high erythritol intake were about twice as likely to experience cardiovascular events after three years.
Gel Supplements
Some supplements are packaged in gel capsules made from phthalates.
Phthalates, known as plasticizers, are used to make plastics more flexible and durable, allowing them to be molded into various shapes.
Once ingested, these compounds can irritate arteries and cause inflammation, making it difficult for blood to circulate.
Dr. Levine advises limiting the intake of soft gel capsules, which are commonly found in items like pain relievers and multivitamins.
A study in 2021 linked phthalate exposure to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.
Dr. Levine emphasized that phthalate exposure, especially through pills, can lead to artery swelling and irritation, potentially causing blockages or aneurysms.
These issues usually stem from cholesterol and plaque buildup along artery walls, but excessive phthalate intake can exacerbate inflammation.
Experts also warn that these chemicals can create oxidative stress, damaging heart cells and increasing heart attack risks.
Additionally, phthalates could adversely affect cholesterol levels and elevate triglycerides, further heightening susceptibility to heart disease and strokes.
