Are you considering taking milk thistle and probiotics together?
While both supplements have been shown to have positive effects on the body, it’s important to understand how they interact with each other.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits and risks of combining milk thistle and probiotics, as well as provide some helpful tips for making informed decisions about your health.
So, let’s dive in and find out if these two supplements can work together to support your overall well-being.
Can You Take Milk Thistle And Probiotics Together?
Yes, you can take milk thistle and probiotics together. However, it’s important to be aware of potential interactions and side effects.
According to a phase IV clinical study conducted by eHealthMe, there have been reported interactions between milk thistle and probiotics. The study analyzed reports from 33 people who took both supplements and found that females experienced stomatitis while males experienced diarrhea.
It’s important to note that this study is not conclusive and further research is needed to fully understand the potential interactions between milk thistle and probiotics.
What Is Milk Thistle And Probiotics?
Milk thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is a natural herb that has been used for over 2,000 years as an herbal remedy for liver, kidney, and gallbladder problems. It contains a flavonoid called silymarin that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Milk thistle is commonly used to detoxify the body and promote liver and gallbladder health. It stimulates the production of digestive juices, including stomach acid and bile, contributing towards the effective breakdown of foods. Milk thistle also supports effective gastrointestinal movement, helping your body move food along at an appropriate pace which keeps the gut flora in check and bloating at bay.
Probiotics, on the other hand, are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system. They help send food through your gut by affecting nerves that control gut movement. Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. They have been shown to improve digestion, boost immunity, and even improve mental health.
When taken together, milk thistle and probiotics can provide a powerful combination for gut and liver health. Milk thistle promotes liver detoxification and helps reduce free radicals in the liver, while probiotics support healthy digestion and immune function. However, it’s important to be aware of potential interactions and side effects, as mentioned in the previous section. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
The Benefits Of Milk Thistle And Probiotics
While there may be potential interactions, there are also benefits to taking milk thistle and probiotics together.
Milk thistle has been shown to have positive effects on liver health, particularly in cases of cirrhosis and hepatitis C. When combined with other nutrients, milk thistle may also help with digestive symptoms.
Probiotics, on the other hand, can help create a healthier digestive environment and streamline the digestive process. This can potentially reduce inflammatory symptoms, especially for those with milk or dairy allergies.
For those seeking a higher concentration of milk thistle or the convenience of a capsule, there are options available. However, for those who prefer a more customizable dose or want fast-acting milk thistle, a tincture may be the better option. Additionally, if you have digestive challenges or leaky gut, a shot that combines milk thistle and living probiotics may be the best choice for you.
Potential Risks Of Taking Milk Thistle And Probiotics Together
While milk thistle and probiotics are generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential risks to be aware of when taking them together.
Firstly, milk thistle extracts may act like estrogen, which means they could worsen hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis or uterine fibroids. If you have any of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using milk thistle extracts.
Additionally, milk thistle may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies and many other plants. If you have allergies, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider before taking milk thistle.
When it comes to probiotics, there is some evidence that taking them with omega-3 fatty acids may actually improve their delivery. However, it’s important to take probiotics on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before eating, as stomach acid can impact their viability.
While there is no conclusive evidence of negative interactions between milk thistle and probiotics, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual health needs and any potential risks or interactions.
How Milk Thistle And Probiotics Interact With Each Other
While there is limited research on the specific interactions between milk thistle and probiotics, it’s important to understand how each supplement works in the body.
Milk thistle is known for its liver-protective properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat liver diseases. It contains a compound called silymarin, which is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Milk thistle is also known to interact with certain medications and should be used with caution if you are taking any prescription drugs.
Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms that are beneficial for gut health. They can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even enhance mental health. Probiotics are found in certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, but are also available in supplement form.
While milk thistle and probiotics have different mechanisms of action in the body, they both affect the liver and digestive system. This is why it’s important to be cautious when taking them together.
The reported interactions between milk thistle and probiotics may be due to individual differences in gut microbiota or other factors. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you are taking prescription medications.
Tips For Taking Milk Thistle And Probiotics Safely
If you are considering taking milk thistle and probiotics together, here are some tips to ensure you do so safely:
1. Talk to your healthcare provider: Before adding any new supplements to your routine, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if these supplements are right for you and if they may interact with any medications you are currently taking.
2. Be aware of potential allergies: Milk thistle should not be taken if you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, chamomile, yarrow, or daisies. If you have any allergies, make sure to check the ingredients of both the milk thistle and probiotic supplements before taking them.
3. Follow dosage instructions: It’s important to follow the recommended dosage instructions for both supplements. Taking too much of either supplement can lead to negative side effects.
4. Take probiotics on an empty stomach: To ensure the probiotics reach your gut and are not impacted by stomach acid, take them on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before eating.
5. Consider the form of milk thistle: Milk thistle comes in various forms such as capsules, tinctures, and shots. Consider which form is best for your lifestyle and health needs.
6. Monitor for side effects: While the reported interactions between milk thistle and probiotics are not conclusive, it’s important to monitor for any negative side effects when taking both supplements together. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop taking the supplements and consult with your healthcare provider.
By following these tips, you can safely take milk thistle and probiotics together and potentially reap their individual health benefits.
