Milk thistle is a popular herbal supplement that is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is a plant native to Europe and Asia, and its seeds have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Milk thistle is most commonly used for liver health, but it may also have other health benefits.
Benefits of Milk Thistle
- Liver health: Milk thistle is most commonly used for liver health, as it contains a compound called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Silymarin may help protect liver cells from damage and improve liver function.
- Diabetes: Some studies suggest that milk thistle may help improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Cholesterol: Milk thistle may also help lower cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
- Skin health: Some research suggests that milk thistle may help improve skin health, particularly in people with conditions such as psoriasis.
- Cancer: There is some evidence to suggest that milk thistle may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed.
Nutritional Facts of Milk Thistle
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant that contains several bioactive compounds, the most notable of which is silymarin. Silymarin is a mixture of flavonolignans, which includes silybin, silydianin, and silychristin. Here is some information on the nutrition of milk thistle:
- Carbohydrates: Milk thistle is low in carbohydrates, with less than 3 grams per 100 grams.
- Protein: Milk thistle contains a moderate amount of protein, with around 2-3 grams per 100 grams.
- Fat: Milk thistle is low in fat, with less than 1 gram per 100 grams.
- Fiber: Milk thistle is a good source of fiber, with around 8 grams per 100 grams.
- Vitamins: Milk thistle is a good source of vitamin E and vitamin K.
- Minerals: Milk thistle is a good source of magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
It’s important to note that milk thistle is typically consumed as an herbal supplement rather than as a food, so the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the form and brand of supplement.
Risks of Milk Thistle
While milk thistle is generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of. Here are some of the risks associated with milk thistle:
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to milk thistle, which can cause symptoms such as itching, rash, and difficulty breathing.
- Digestive issues: Milk thistle can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and upset stomach.
- Interactions with medications: Milk thistle may interact with certain medications, such as blood-thinning drugs, anti-anxiety medications, and drugs used to treat diabetes. This can affect the effectiveness of these medications and may lead to unwanted side effects.
- Hormonal effects: Milk thistle may have estrogenic effects and could interfere with hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill.
