DGL supplements are a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as acid reflux, ulcers, and gastritis. DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice, which is a form of licorice that has been processed to remove most of the glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause side effects such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and hormonal imbalances. But who should not take DGL supplements due to contraindications, interactions, and health history?
In this article, we will provide you with the key information you need to know before considering DGL supplements.
Table of Contents
What are the Contraindications of DGL Supplements?
Contraindications are conditions or factors that make a treatment unsafe or inappropriate for a certain person. DGL supplements have some contraindications that you should be aware of, such as:
- Allergy or sensitivity to licorice or any of the ingredients in DGL supplements. Some people may experience severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. They should seek immediate medical attention if they have symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or loss of consciousness.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is not enough evidence to ensure the safety of DGL supplements for these groups. DGL supplements may affect the hormonal balance, the development of the fetus, or the quality and quantity of breast milk. They may also increase the risk of preterm labor or miscarriage. They should consult their doctor before taking DGL supplements or any other herbal products.
- Medical conditions that may be affected by DGL supplements. Some conditions that may worsen or interfere with DGL supplements are diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or hormonal disorders. They should check with their doctor before taking DGL supplements or any other supplements.
What are the Interactions of DGL Supplements?
Interactions are effects that occur when a treatment interacts with another treatment, food, or substance. DGL supplements may interact with some medications, supplements, or foods, such as:
- Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding .
- Antihypertensives, such as beta-blockers, which may reduce their effectiveness .
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, which may increase their side effects .
- Other herbal products, such as St. John’s wort, ginkgo, garlic, or ginger, which may also affect blood pressure, blood sugar, or bleeding .
- Foods that contain salt, potassium, or licorice, which may alter the electrolyte balance or the effects of DGL supplements .
Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking DGL supplements if you are taking any other medications, supplements, or foods that may interact with DGL supplements. You should also inform your doctor if you are planning to start or stop taking DGL supplements, as this may affect the dosage or effectiveness of your other treatments.
When to See Your Doctor?
DGL supplements are not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. They are not intended to cure, prevent, or treat any disease or condition. They are only meant to support your digestive health and relieve your symptoms. Therefore, you should see your doctor if:
- You have severe, frequent, or persistent symptoms of acid reflux, ulcers, or gastritis, such as heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or black stools. These may indicate a serious underlying problem that requires medical attention .
- You have not seen any improvement or have seen worsening of your condition after taking DGL supplements for several weeks. This may mean that DGL supplements are not working for you or that you need a different or stronger treatment .
- You have any questions or concerns about DGL supplements or any other supplements. Your doctor can help you understand the benefits, risks, and alternatives of DGL supplements and other treatments. They can also help you find the best dosage, frequency, and duration of intake for your needs .
Summary
DGL supplements are a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as acid reflux, ulcers, and gastritis. DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice, which is a form of licorice that has been processed to remove most of the glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause side effects such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and hormonal imbalances. However, there are some people who should not take DGL supplements due to contraindications, interactions, and health history. These include people who are allergic or sensitive to licorice or any of the ingredients in DGL supplements, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and people who have medical conditions or are taking medications that may interact with DGL supplements. You should consult your doctor before taking DGL supplements or any other supplements, and see your doctor if you have any serious or persistent symptoms of digestive issues, or if you have any questions or concerns about DGL supplements or any other supplements. DGL supplements are not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. They are only meant to support your digestive health and relieve your symptoms.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. You should always consult your doctor before taking any supplement or medication, or making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. The results may vary from person to person, depending on the individual circumstances and factors. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented in this article. We are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences that may arise from the use of the information in this article. We are not affiliated with any of the products or brands mentioned in this article. We do not endorse or recommend any of the products or brands mentioned in this article.