Bengaluru: Doctors are raising concerns over a growing number of liver injury cases linked to the misuse of protein supplements and wellness products. The spike, they say, has become more noticeable in the post-Covid years, as more people turn to powders, boosters, and over-the-counter formulations without medical guidance.They note that the issue is not protein per se, but the way it is being consumed — often in excess and without medical supervision.“There is a rise in what is known as drug-induced liver injury secondary to complementary and alternative medications. Nowadays people are overenthusiastic about consuming protein supplements, immunity boosters and products for weight loss or gain. Many of these are unauthorised, and in any form, they can cause injury to the liver. The liver is a metabolic mill; it handles everything we eat, and so it is the first organ to be affected,” said Dr Vijay Kumar HJ, senior consultant, medical gastroenterology, hepatology & interventional endoscopy, KIMS Hospital.Hepatologists added that fears around protein itself are often exaggerated when intake is within recommended limits. “Rising liver issues are not directly linked to protein supplements in most people, and the concern is often overstated when supplements are used in the right amount and from good-quality sources. Current medical evidence shows that high-protein diets and protein supplements are generally safe for liver function in healthy individuals when taken in moderate amounts,” said Dr Sonal Asthana, lead consultant, HPB & liver transplant surgery, Aster CMI Hospital.However, the risks increase when products are unregulated or consumed in excess. “Problems can happen when people take very high doses, use unverified or contaminated products, or already have liver disease,” he added.A key concern flagged by doctors is supplement quality. “In clinical practice, it is rare for otherwise healthy people to develop liver damage purely due to protein intake. However, we do come across situations where liver dysfunction is exacerbated by uncontrolled or contaminated supplements. Many over-the-counter products may contain unreported ingredients such as heavy metals, herbal additives or even anabolic steroids, which can stress the liver,” said Dr Pradeep Krishna RV, senior consultant in the department of HPB surgery and liver transplantation, Apollo Hospitals.Those with pre-existing liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or hepatitis are particularly vulnerable. “If a patient already has an underlying liver issue, consumption of these supplements will definitely affect the liver. Even moderate excess or poor-quality supplements can worsen the condition, which is why medical supervision becomes essential,” said Dr Kumar.Issue of awarenessDoctors also flagged low awareness among consumers, noting that many people do not read ingredient lists, check for certifications, or verify supplement quality, and are often influenced by advertisements or celebrity endorsements. “Most start taking supplements without consulting a doctor and seek medical advice only when problems arise,” Dr Kumar said.Dr Krishna said natural dietary sources remain the safest way to meet protein needs. “A balanced diet made up of natural, whole-food sources is the safest way to achieve daily protein requirements. Foods such as beans, lentils, dairy products, eggs, lean meats, fish, nuts, and seeds provide high-quality protein along with essential nutrients,” he said.BOXDaily Protein RequirementSedentary adults: 0.8–1 grams per kg body weightModerately active individuals: 1–1.2 grams per kgActive/gym-goers: 1.2–1.6 grams per kgAthletes (high intensity): up to 2 grams per kgSource: Hepatologists
