Serious Side Effects Linked To Fat Burning Supplements

Liver Or Kidney Damage

In recent years, several fat-burning supplements have been banned after being linked to liver and kidney damage. In 2014, researchers found conjugated linoleic acid, an ingredient in a popular fat-burning supplement, was linked to almost one hundred cases of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) across the United States. Although the supplement was removed from the market, forty-seven of the patients required hospitalization, and three liver transplants were necessary. Signs of liver damage include jaundice, swelling in the legs or ankles, abdominal pain, and pale or bloody stools. Aristolochic acid and heavy metals may be present in some supplements, and these are directly linked to kidney damage. Case studies have documented direct links between kidney diseases and the use of chromium picolinate, creatine monohydrate, germanium, Yohimbe, and chaparral. Many of these cases developed in patients who were previously healthy. Potential signs of kidney damage include fatigue, frequent urination, insomnia, and dry, itchy skin. Individuals concerned about their kidney health may want to see a doctor for an evaluation. Doctors can perform blood and urine tests to detect kidney damage.