Who should avoid taking milk thistle supplements?

Milk thistle provides health benefits but is not without risk in certain groups requiring avoidance. Recognizing specific contraindications helps avoid potential health complications. The herb's active constituents interact in fundamentally different ways - depending on individual physiology. Careful identification of at-risk populations allows added safety in the supplementation process.

Dosage considerations apply to borderline cases. People with mild sensitivities may be able to tolerate low doses under medical supervision. Start with 100mg instead of the 200-400mg standard. Always take with food to mitigate gastrointestinal reflux. Discontinue immediately if any adverse reactions occur.

Pay close attention to medication interactions. Blood thinners such as warfarin can create a dangerous situation, increasing the chance of bleeding. Diabetes medications may cause hypoglycemia when combined with silymarin. Also, birth control may be less effective. Always let your prescribers know if you take supplements.

To ensure safe usage and quality, follow the quality verification process. Select supplements that undergo third-party testing and are free from unnecessary additional ingredients. Store products away from light and heat to maintain and stabilize them. Keep track of your responses with a health journal. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

Read the full article: 10 Benefits Milk Thistle Offers