Common Side-Effects of Supplements used to Manage Inflammation-Continued

Some studies have found that supplementation with certain vitamins and natural compounds may help prevent or delay inflammation, reducing the development of chronic disease.

Continuing with the possible common side effects of some supplements:

Ginger 

Ginger contains compounds called gingerol and shogaol that may be beneficial against inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease. More studies are needed to confirm these benefits.

There is no set dose for ginger to reduce inflammation. Most studies that used ginger to reduce inflammation used doses of 15-750 milligrams for about 3-12 weeks.

Ginger is generally a safe dietary supplement, but larger doses have been shown to cause mild diarrhea, heartburn, throat irritation, and stomach cramps.

Green Tea

Green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin-3 gallate (EGCG), which is responsible for its inflammation-reducing properties.

Green tea suppresses the expression of inflammatory proteins and enzymes that cause inflammation.

It’s safe to drink up to 8 cups of green tea daily. However, because green tea contains caffeine, drinking too much can cause caffeine-related side effects, such as restlessness, insomnia, headaches, and dehydration.

Green tea may also interfere with the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications like statins, so it should be used with caution when taking other medications.

Zinc 

Zinc is an important mineral that helps boost the immune system. You can get zinc by eating meat, fish, grains, and dairy products.

Studies have found that a zinc deficiency can contribute to and lead to chronic inflammation. Zinc helps to reduce inflammation by regulating inflammatory proteins and controlling oxidative stress caused by too many harmful free radicals.

Zinc is generally safe, but long-term use, especially in high doses, can lead to suppressed immunity, anemia, and copper deficiency.

If you take other medications, consult your healthcare provider before using zinc, as it interacts with some antibiotics and Hygroton (thiazide diuretics).

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another fat-soluble vitamin that can be used to manage inflammation. It is found naturally in wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, peanut oil, and corn oil.

Studies show that vitamin E can help prevent and treat conditions that occur due to inflammation. It acts by decreasing the amount of inflammatory proteins produced by the body.

Vitamin E is generally safe when used in the recommended amount. However, high doses may cause increased bleeding. Vitamin E may also interact with different medications, including blood thinners like Coumadin (warfarin) and some cholesterol-lowering medications, such as Zocor (simvastatin).

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme commonly found in pineapple that breaks down protein. It has been found to reduce inflammation by decreasing the secretion of inflammatory compounds like IL-6 and TNF-α.

Some research suggests bromelain’s inflammation-reducing properties may help manage conditions like osteoarthritis. More studies are needed to confirm this benefit.

Bromelain is generally well-tolerated. However, while using this supplement, you may experience side effects like stomach upset and diarrhea. Some people might also experience allergic reactions like rash and itching.

A Quick Review 

Inflammation is part of the body’s natural immune response to injury or infection. While short-term inflammation can be beneficial, chronic inflammation can increase the risk of health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Some studies have found that vitamins C, D, and E and compounds like curcumin, resveratrol, and bromelain can help prevent and manage inflammation.

Talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you take other medications or have a health condition.

Source: msn.com©