The favorite in the curry
The “superfood” turmeric can damage the liver
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Turmeric is said to offer many health benefits. However, according to a new study, the hot spice could damage the liver.
We already know that hot spices in our food in particular have many health benefits. One of these spices is turmeric: the delicious arousing agent is mainly found in curries, soups and chillies and, according to Chinese medicine, can help against inflammation and have an antioxidant effect. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), turmeric is also considered a generally safe food, a new one study but now provides indications that that the yellow spice could damage the liver over time.
Data from ten years evaluated
Researchers have found a link between turmeric consumption and the potential for liver damage through data from people who are part of the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN). For this purpose, this data was evaluated between the years 2011 and 2022. Overall, the scientists found: inside ten cases of liver damage associated with turmeric consumption. The severity of the cases ranged between moderate and severe – five people had to be treated in hospital, one died due to acute liver failure.
Significant research results – but no reason to panic
Chemical analyzes were also able to show that three of those affected consumed turmeric primarily in combination with black pepper had taken. The scientists describe their study results as significant, but also point out that more research is needed in this direction, since comparatively few cases of liver damage have occurred in the ten years. One question will also be why turmeric appears to have an effect on liver health.
What do other studies say?
In fact, previous research has suggested a link between turmeric and liver damage. One study showed for example that the Taking a dietary supplement containing turmeric can lead to impaired liver function. However, these cases cannot be traced back to the respective dietary supplement itself, but to interactions that were triggered by the simultaneous use of certain medications.
According to the researchers of the study, this can be a problem, especially for older people who often several medications take at the same time. People who are already known to have abnormal liver values should therefore consult their doctor before taking any dietary supplement with turmeric.
Sources used: newsscientist.com, fda.gov