Many patients with type 2 diabetes also ingest milk thistle, in the hopes that it will help keep blood sugar low. This claim is similar to the claim that milk thistle protects the liver in that it is largely anecdotal; however, scientific studies have shown a decrease in inflammation and an increase in antioxidant capacity in diabetic patients who took milk thistle, when compared to placebo.
It is thought that perhaps milk thistle plays a role in reducing oxidative stress, particularly in diabetic patients. There have been reviews that suggest that fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1c levels were reduced in those taking milk thistle, but this was an umbrella systematic review of scientific studies that were of poorer quality. Similarly to claims of liver protection, patients should also be wary of these claims.
Fundamentally, more research is needed in all aspects of health to prove the efficacy of milk thistle claims. Anecdotally, however, there are a number of health claims beyond liver disease and diabetes that should be mentioned.
Milk thistle is purported to:. Generally speaking, most patients tolerate milk thistle well if they stay within the recommended dosage guidelines.
However, it is imperative that you speak with your doctor before beginning any type of treatment, over-the-counter medication, or herbal supplement. This is in part because milk thistle is known to interact with several medications, and can actually be dangerous for diabetics who begin using it.
The most common side effect of taking milk thistle is mild gastrointestinal upset. However, other side effects may include headaches, joint pain, or sexual dysfunction.
It is possible to be allergic to milk thistle as well and have a serious allergic reaction. If you ingest milk thistle and find that you have shortness of breath, swelling, hives, or a rash, go to the emergency room immediately, as this may be a sign of anaphylaxis.
While it is rare to have an allergic reaction, it is possible. Those who react allergically to milk thistle usually cannot tolerate plants or supplements that are from the same family. Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below.
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The connection between the liver and migraine headaches has to do with vascular blood vessels changes associated altered serotonin metabolism. Serotonin, an important neurotransmitter a messenger molecule released from nerve cells , is metabolized by the liver. Some researchers now believe that by improving liver function and by normalizing serotonin metabolism, the frequency and severity of migraine headaches may be reduced. Some people have noticed a connection between certain foods and their migraines.
Some of these foods include chocolate, aged cheeses and fermented products, but scientific evidence is inconsistent in proving any association. Wines have also been known to be culprits, but it is unknown if reds or whites cause migraines. Another very popular food additive and flavour enhancer, MSG, has been known to trigger migraine headaches in some people. What all these products have in common is that they may be able to stimulate the neurotransmitters that are overly active during a migraine.
Another consideration is female hormones. Among women, those who tend to suffer from migraines are more likely to experience them around the time of their periods— usually around two days prior to first flow. In some instances, migraines are more severe during menstruation than at any other time of the month.
Because estrogen and progesterone levels decline prior to menstruation, it is believed that the mechanism for triggering liver migraines is elicited—decline in these hormones lead to vascular changes—and needless to say, it is the liver that metabolizes and clears our estrogen.
To find out more, speak with a qualified health care provider. The first step is always to consult with a qualified health care provider.
It may be important to requisition blood work and do other tests.
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