Bel Marra Health Reports on New Research by the FDA Revealing Possible Interference of Certain Foods with Medication
Toronto, ON (PRWEB) July 31, 2013 -- Bel Marra Health, who offers high-quality, specially formulated vitamins and nutritional supplements, reports on a new study finding the interference of certain foods with prescription medications.
As Bel Marra Health reports in its article, (http://www.belmarrahealth.com/general-health-2/healthy-foods-that-interfere-with-your-medication) it is common to hear the stern warnings about mixing alcohol with medications. A lot of pharmacists put caution labels on pill bottles; however, prescription medication users are rarely informed about the dangers of mixing certain foods with their medication. Doctors across North America say it’s no myth – some foods really do pose a threat when consumed along with specific drugs.
It is not that often doctors will advise patients to avoid eating healthy food, but if with a certain type of medication, patients may need to eliminate certain foods from their diet. Some healthy food, which is normally packed with nutrition, can affect how a medication gets absorbed into the body. Some foods can make a medication completely ineffective, while others can increase the risk of creating dangerous, life-threatening side-effects.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that vitamin C, fiber and potassium can all be found in grapefruit, but just one glass of grapefruit juice can impact intestinal enzymes and make it easier for over 80 different drugs to enter the blood stream. This could increase the risk of side-effects from the medications. For those taking a statin drug, such as Lipitor, immuno-suppressants, calcium channel blockers like Plendil, or benzodiazepines such as Valium, switching from grapefruit to oranges can avoid risks while still getting the same nutritional benefits.
Spinach and broccoli are examples of other nutritious foods that some people may need to avoid. They are high in vitamin K; however, those who are taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, may be cancelling out the benefits of the anti-coagulant by eating these greens.
It is not just what you eat; it is also what you drink that has to be taken into consideration. For example, cranberry juice is a great healthy option, but recent studies show that it may increase the effects of statins.
Sweet treats join healthy food in the danger zone if taking certain drugs. Take black licorice as an example. It contains a sweetening compound, called glycyrrhizin. This substance can reduce the effects of some blood pressure medications and urine-producing drugs. Research suggests it may also increase the toxicity risks of Lanoxin, which is used to treat congestive heart failure as well as abnormal heart rhythms. Chocolate is another sweet that may potentially pose a problem. If taking antidepressant medications, chocolate can potentially increase or decrease its effects. According to the FDA, there are certain medications that are prescribed for depression that, if consumed along with chocolate, can lead to a sharp rise in blood pressure. These drugs are known as MAO inhibitors. The FDA reports that aged cheese, bologna, pepperoni, sausage and salami can also lead to high blood pressure when consumed with these inhibitors.
Pharmacists say it is common practice for patients to ask their family doctors about side-effects whenever they are prescribed a new medication; however, they rarely inquire about healthy food or beverage interactions. When prescriptions are given, Bel Marra Doctors advise to research and talk to a health care practitioner about the possible food implication, as well as the possible general side-effects of that medication.
(SOURCE: Healy, Michelle. "Grapefruit Not Only Food That Can Affect Medication." USA Today. Gannett, 22 Jan. 2013.)
Bel Marra Health is the maker of “Stomach Rescue,” a high-quality nutritional supplement that shields stomach lining, eases gastric discomfort, and helps to relieve bloating. All ingredients are backed with scientific evidence. Every product is tested for safety, quality, and purity at every stage of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, Bel Marra Health products are produced only in Health Canada approved facilities, going the extra mile to ensure that our health-conscious customers are getting top quality products. For more information on Bel Marra Health visit belmarrahealth.com or call 1-866-531-0466.
Jim Chiang, Belmarra Nutritionals, Inc, http://www.belmarrahealth.com/, 866-531-0466, [email protected]
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