Are you struggling with hair loss and considering Nutrafol as a solution? Before you spend your hard-earned money, there's something important you need to know. A recent medical report has uncovered a potential health risk that everyone who purchases this supplement should understand. Nutrafol, a popular hair growth supplement, has been linked to liver problems. This alarming connection raises serious concerns about the safety of Nutrafol. Read on to discover what happened and the potential side effects and make an informed decision about your hair health. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase after clicking a link.
What Is Nutrafol?
Nutrafol is claimed to be the “#1 dermatologist-recommended” hair growth supplement blend. It is produced by Nutraceutical Wellness Inc., which is headquartered on Madison Avenue in New York City.
The supplement, which is designed to target “the root causes” of thinning hair, comes in the following formulas:
- Nutrafol for women
- Women's vegan formula
- Womans Balance
- PostPartium Nutraful
- Nutrafol for men
The supplement is widely available and sold locally and on most major online retail websites.
The company has been operating since 2014 and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. Ironically, while the Better Business Bureau gives the company an A+ rating, customer reviews score it at 1.13 out of 5 stars.
Understanding Nutrafol: A Closer Look at the Popular Hair Growth Supplement
In a recent medical case study, a 26-year-old woman experienced health concerns and was evaluated by physicians, which, after medical tests, revealed:
- Elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT)
- Elevated alkaline phosphatase
- Liver inflammation (revealed by liver biopsy)
- Increase in bilirubin
- Reduced bile flow from the liver
- Elevated iron levels
- Liver cell destruction
She denied excessive alcohol abuse or using medications like acetaminophen, which could be dangerous for the liver. She, likewise, was not infected with the Epstein bar virus or had viral hepatitis.
Upon questioning, she revealed she had started taking Nutrafol about 5 months prior at the suggestion of her dermatologist. Additionally, a month before she began taking the supplement, blood tests revealed no elevation in bilirubin or liver enzymes.
They also state the woman had a “history of obesity.” Excess body weight can raise the risk of fatty liver disease. However, after stopping the supplement, her liver health began to improve.
Diving into Nutrafol's Ingredients: What You Need to Know
Nutrafol contains a complex blend of ingredients, including:
- Beta-Carotene: Likely Ineffective for hair growth.
Nutrafol for Women Supplement Facts Label - Biotin: A Common but Controversial Hair Health Ingredient.
- Thyroid-Related Ingredients Nutrafol includes iodine and selenium, possibly targeting hair loss related to hypothyroidism.
Controversial Ingredients
The physicians called out certain ingredients in Nutrafol as potential causes for the abnormal liver function by this 26-year-old woman:
- Turmeric
- Ashwagandha
- Horsetail
- Saw palmetto
- Kelp minerals
- Resveratrol
The Proprietary Blend: Quantity Matters
These six ingredients are found in the Synergen Complex and Nutrfol Blend proprietary blends. However, both blends amount to 1.68 g and 530 mg, respectively, which isn't much.
While each of these ingredients has its share of liver-toxic reports, most are popular enough that if they were regularly causing liver failure, there would be many more reports on Nutrafol than currently seen.
Additionally, hydrolyzed marine collagen and cysteine make up most of the Synergen and Nutrafol Blends, and neither of these has been routinely linked to liver problems.
Nutrafol for Women has 26 different ingredients. As with all multi-ingredient dietary supplements, the interactions between different nutrients – especially when their effects are amplified by black pepper extract – are not well known. Might this be tied to what happened to this woman?
Cost vs. Potential Risk: A Smart Alternative
Nutrafol may cost about $80 per month, depending on where you purchase it. Saw palmetto is a common ingredient in, including Nutrafol. Some research suggests that saw palmetto extract (beta-sitosterol) may regrow hair.
It appears to do this by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into the more potent (and hair follicle toxic) dihydrotestosterone. In one clinical trial, both oral and topical saw palmetto oil effectively reduced hair loss and improved regrowth hair in men and women with alopecia. Studies showing improvement in alopecia have used 100 mg to 320 mg daily.
Saw palmetto may be an option for those seeking a less expensive option to Nutrafol. The advantages to this strategy include:
- Some research suggests that saw palmetto (and beta-sitosterol) might help with hair growth
- Much more affordable than Nutrafol
- Allows you to test a single, targeted ingredient
Keep in mind that saw palmetto supplements are also advertised to aid prostate problems in men, such as reducing nighttime trips to the bathroom. Supplements marketed for prostate health would work just as well for hair loss if the amounts are the same and saw palmetto (or beta-sitosterol) are the only ingredients.
Important Considerations Before Taking Nutrafol (or Any Supplement)
Before you invest in a supplement, consider these critical points to reduce possible side effects:
- Consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you take medications like blood thinners.
- If you are pregnant, speak to your physician first.
- Monitor your body's response carefully.
- When you begin taking any new dietary supplement, it is wise to start with less than the company recommends. This gives you time to adjust, and if side effects occur, taking less should help minimize them.
Why Dermatologists Recommend Nutrafol (And Why You Should Be Cautious)
As the Nutrafol.com states, this supplement is the #1 dermatologist recommended for thinning hair. Why is that? Some company-sponsored research reveals that Nutrafol works. However, while encouraging, there are not as many studies as this author would like. Like with all supplements, results may vary.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Health and Your Hair
Nutrafol is likely safe for the vast majority of people who use it. That said, potential health risks may occur in a minority of people. This can also be said for many supplements too. This single medical case of liver problems might be rare, but if you notice any of these possible warning signs, consult your physician:
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (Jaundice)
- Abdominal swelling or pain, especially on the upper right side of the abdomen
- Pale or clay-colored stools
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and or vomiting
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Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.