Can butterfly pea flour cause elevated Liver Function Tests (LFTs)?

From the Guidelines

Butterfly pea flour is unlikely to cause increased Liver Function Tests (LFTs) in most people, as there is currently no strong evidence to support this claim. The provided evidence does not mention butterfly pea flour as a potential cause of elevated LFTs. However, it's essential to note that some individuals might experience idiosyncratic reactions to any botanical product, including potential liver effects, especially those with pre-existing liver conditions, those taking medications metabolized by the liver, or those consuming excessive amounts 1.

Key Considerations

• The evidence provided focuses on various dietary components and their association with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk, as well as guidelines for managing abnormal liver blood tests 1.
• There is no direct mention of butterfly pea flour or its potential impact on LFTs in the provided studies.
• It's crucial to consider that herbal products, including butterfly pea flower, may have limited comprehensive safety studies, particularly regarding long-term use or high doses 1.

Recommendations

• If you're using butterfly pea flour regularly and notice symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, or dark urine, you should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
• It's also advisable to inform your doctor about all herbal supplements you're taking, including butterfly pea flour, particularly before any liver function testing or if you have underlying liver concerns.

From the Research

Butterfly Pea Flour and Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

• There is no direct evidence that butterfly pea flour causes elevated Liver Function Tests (LFTs) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Studies have shown that butterfly pea flower extract has hepatoprotective properties, suggesting that it may actually help protect the liver rather than cause damage 2, 4.
• One study found that treatment with butterfly pea flower extract decreased levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and increased levels of liver albumin, indicating improved liver function 2.
• Another study found that butterfly pea flower extract lowered the levels of LDH, ACP, AST, and ALT in rats with diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia, suggesting a potential hepatoprotective effect 4.
• However, it is worth noting that herbal supplements, including those made from butterfly pea flowers, can potentially cause liver injury in some individuals, although this is relatively rare 3.
• Elevated LFTs can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, and other medical conditions 5, 6.

Potential Causes of Elevated LFTs

• Underlying liver disease, such as acute hepatitis or chronic liver disease 5.
• Drug-induced liver injury, including prescription medications and herbal supplements 3, 5.
• Other medical conditions, such as sepsis, right heart failure, or cardiogenic shock 5.
• Refeeding syndrome in patients with severe anorexia nervosa 6.

Importance of Medical Evaluation

• If elevated LFTs are detected, a comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan 5.