Popular Vitamin for Hair and Nails Linked to Liver Failure in Texas Mom

A Texas mother of four is warning others after a popular hair, skin, and nails supplement landed her in the hospital with liver failure. According to Daily Mail reporter Cassidy Morrison, Jenny Ramirez from Fort Worth started taking a vitamin containing methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) to Support her hair during her weight loss journey. But within weeks, she noticed yellowing of her eyes and skin—a sign of serious liver trouble.

Ms. Ramirez was eventually diagnosed with liver failure and had to undergo surgery to remove her gallbladder. Her doctors believe the supplement, sold under CVS’s store brand, was the likely cause. Although MSM is generally considered safe, with research suggesting it might even protect the liver, supplements in the U.S. are not regulated by the FDA the same way medicines are. This means dosages can vary and contaminants can slip in unnoticed.

Studies in animals and humans have mostly found MSM safe even in high doses, but experts warn that supplements often contain multiple ingredients, and their interactions can sometimes be harmful. Liver specialists, like Dr. Supriya Joshi, have pointed out that other popular supplement ingredients—such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and green tea extract—can also pose serious risks to liver health.

Ms. Ramirez shared her experience with her 12,600 TikTok followers, urging them to be cautious when using supplements. She said many people might not realize that a lifestyle change could replace the need for risky products.

If you’re looking to boost your health naturally, consider plant-based foods rich in vitamins and minerals instead of unregulated supplements. By choosing whole, plant-powered options, you’re not just protecting your health—you’re supporting a more sustainable and compassionate world.

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