Headaches, back pain, joint and muscle stiffness are just a few of the reasons people pop over-the-counter painkillers in search of relief. However, industry professionals and physicians continually raise questions about the safety of these drugs since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires serious warning labels for drug manufacturers.
Drugs that contain acetaminophen—widely known by the brand name Tylenol®—and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen are widely known to cause a whole host of health problems. FDA officials cite gastritis, peptic ulcers, and stomach bleeding as possible complications from normal use of these medicines. But that’s not even the worst possible outcome from continued use of these drugs.
Your Liver at Risk
Your liver is most at risk when it comes to the intake of medications. This is because your liver processes and breaks down everything you eat and drink, including foods, medications, and alcohol. It pulls out the harmful substances from your bloodstream so your body can reap the benefits from the vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fiber in your diet. However, these harmful substances can destroy healthy liver cells. Over time, this could lead to liver damage and disease.
According to the American Liver Foundation, you can develop hepatitis and liver damage just by taking more than the recommended 4 gram daily maximum of acetaminophen. The organization also says acetaminophen is even toxic in lower doses for people who regularly drink more than two alcoholic beverages daily.
The FDA estimates 56,000 Americans visit emergency rooms each year for acetaminophen-related overdoses, and 26,000 people are hospitalized each year. Research also states that acetaminophen is among the leading causes of pharmaceutical deaths. In most cases, accidental abuse of over-the-counter medicines is the most dangerous mistake people make—simply by taking too many painkillers too quickly. People should read and adhere to the warning labels that clarify maximum recommended dosages.
Long-term Risks and Alternative Solutions
Not only are you at risk of an overdose, but even regular consumption over a long period of time can be dangerous to your health. Continuous, moderate use of these drugs can clog your liver and kidneys with poisons and toxins. There are safe and effective nutrients to help unclog your liver and eliminate the poisons accumulating in your system.
Milk Thistle
One of the potent natural liver cleansing agents is milk thistle, which helps your liver replace dead or damaged cells. This plant has been used for over 2,000 years for its medicinal properties in treating liver and gallbladder issues. The active ingredient, silymarin, is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your liver from free radicals and toxins.
Soy Lecithin
Another great liver support supplement is soy lecithin, which helps remove excess fat and cholesterol that can clog your liver. It contains phosphatidylcholine, a compound that is essential for the proper functioning of cell membranes and liver health. It also plays a crucial role in the metabolism of fats, making it an excellent addition to your daily liver maintenance routine.
Turmeric Root
Turmeric root is a popular spice used in many dishes, but it’s also known for its liver cleansing properties. Curcumin, the main compound in turmeric, has been found to help remove toxins from the liver and stimulate bile production. This helps your liver to process fats more efficiently and can aid in reducing inflammation.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health issues, including liver, kidney, and digestive problems. This powerful herb acts as a diuretic, which can help filter toxins from your liver and kidneys. It also stimulates bile production, helping your liver break down fats and remove waste from your body more efficiently.
Final Words
It’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with over-the-counter painkillers, especially when it comes to your liver health. Reading warning labels and understanding the appropriate dosage limits is vital in preventing accidental overdoses and long-term damage. By incorporating liver-cleansing nutrients like milk thistle, soy lecithin, turmeric root, and dandelion root into your diet, you can help support your liver in removing toxins and maintaining optimum function. Don’t let over-the-counter drugs harm your liver when natural alternatives can provide you with safe and effective relief from pain and inflammation.
