Today at Dose, we're shining a spotlight on two standout supplements that spark a lot of curiosity and conversation: tudca and milk thistle. 

Each plays a unique role in supporting our body's well-being, especially where it counts — the liver. However, as different as they are, they often get mixed up in the wellness world. Let’s dive in and talk about how tudca and milk thistle compare. 

What Is Tudca?

Tudca, known formally as tauroursodeoxycholic acid, was originally celebrated in Asia, before it found its way into the global spotlight for its ability to support metabolic health. Tudca is a water-soluble bile acid that is naturally produced in small amounts in the human body. 

It’s a derivative of the primary bile acid, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), and is known for its health-promoting properties. TUDCA acts as a protective agent for the liver, potentially helping to promote bile flow and preventing the formation of harmful substances. In addition to its potential liver-protective effects, ongoing scientific research is exploring TUDCA for its other possible health benefits as well.

Tudca also steps up as a source of support for cell health, ensuring cells are happy and healthy across different organs. This makes it a potential pick for anyone looking to support their body’s internal processes and promote long-term health.

What Is Milk Thistle?

Milk thistle is a flowering herb related to the daisy and ragweed family. It’s native to Mediterranean countries, and is commonly used for its healing properties in natural medicine and herbal remedies. Milk thistle seeds contain a bioflavonoid complex known as silymarin, which is touted for its antioxidant, immune-supporting, and soothing properties.

Milk thistle is thought to be a powerhouse when it comes to nurturing your liver. Celebrated for centuries across various cultures, milk thistle packs a punch with its active component, silymarin, which works to help your body properly filter out toxins and unwanted elements. 

Milk thistle also plays a supportive role in energizing your system, ensuring you feel your best. Whether you're considering a holistic approach to maintain your liver's health or simply looking to add a natural source of support to your wellness routine, milk thistle could be your herb of choice. 

Is Tudca or Milk Thistle a Better Choice?

Tudca and milk thistle are both great options in their own right, but each comes with its unique strengths in the wellness world.

Tudca shines in its ability to support overall metabolic health and maintain the body's internal cleansing process. That said, some people may experience side effects like diarrhea or ingestion when using tudca, which may outweigh the benefits.

On the other hand, milk thistle features silymarin, making it a potent source of support for your liver. Plus, milk thistle works to provide holistic benefits for your wellness as a whole — not just for your liver. Additionally, milk thistle has centuries of research and usage behind it, making it a highly trusted and reliable source of wellness support. 

Conversely, research is ongoing when it comes to the benefits of tudca and how, exactly, it works. This may leave questions unanswered for some consumers, which might not be ideal if you’re looking for more peace of mind regarding your wellness routine.

In the end, both have wellness in mind — it's just a question of your personal needs and goals.

If you’re thinking about adding either tudca or milk thistle to your daily wellness routine, keep in mind that it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider first — especially if you’re dealing with a health condition or taking any medications. Your doctor can work with you to determine whether herbs are a beneficial addition to your routine, and how to best use them in your specific circumstances. 

Can You Use Tudca and Milk Thistle Together?

It is generally considered safe to use TUDCA and milk thistle together. 

Both supplements have been linked to potential liver health benefits, and combining them may enhance these effects. TUDCA is a bile acid that can help protect the liver and promote healthy bile flow, while milk thistle contains silymarin, an antioxidant that may assist the liver in repairing and regenerating itself. 

However, as with any new supplement or wellness routine, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting. This helps ensure that the combination is appropriate for your specific health situation and that it doesn't interact with other medications or conditions.

Combining tudca and milk thistle might also increase your risk of experiencing side effects like digestive discomfort, depending on the doses and potency of each ingredient. It may be best to choose one or the other for the most successful and comfortable routine. 

How To Incorporate Milk Thistle Into Your Wellness Journey

Exploring milk thistle as part of your wellness routine? It's important to think of any new supplement as part of a broader comprehensive health strategy. 

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your journey to optimal health:

Sip Your Way to Elevated Wellness

Dive into your day with our wellness shot Dose for Your Liver. This no-fuss, quick sip is like a morning toast to your health. It's packed with healthful ingredients like milk thistle, dandelion, and ginger to support your liver’s natural filtration system — no time-consuming rituals needed, just pure, straightforward nourishment in one wellness shot. 

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

With any wellness goal, it’s important to maintain other healthy habits like proper hydration. 

Aim to get into the habit of drinking at least eight glasses of water per day to maintain an internal environment conducive to optimal functioning.

Get Moving

Physical activity isn’t just about building muscles or shedding a few pounds. Regular exercise assists in maintaining your liver's health by enhancing circulation and encouraging the body to eliminate unwanted elements more efficiently.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Your dietary habits play a substantial role in liver health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains offers essential nutrients to support your liver's ongoing filtration efforts.

Consistency Is Key

When incorporating milk thistle into your supplementation, consistency is crucial. Regular and sustained use will increase the chances of reaping their benefits. Design a routine that fits your lifestyle and stick to it.

Choosing Your Path to Liver Wellness

As we wrap up our deep dive into tudca and milk thistle, it's clear that both supplements offer unique advantages for supporting liver health and overall well-being. 

Your choice between tudca and milk thistle should align with your specific health goals and needs — whether you're looking for metabolic enhancement or powerful filtration support. Though both options provide possible benefits for your wellness, it’s important to keep in mind that milk thistle has a longer history of use and research, which might give you more peace of mind when incorporating it into your overall routine. 

Ready to take the next step? Explore our wellness supplements today and tailor your path to vitality. At Dose, we're here to support every sip of your wellness journey. 

Sources:

What is Tudca? | Information & Faq | Everyone.org

“Silymarin”, a Promising Pharmacological Agent for Treatment of Diseases | PMC

Milk thistle Information | Mount Sinai

Hydration 101: Drinking 8 Glasses of Water and Other Myths Debunked | URMC Newsroom