One thing on your spring cleaning list should be a review of all medications, pills, and supplements that you take. This should be completed twice each year. Why? The cells in your body are replaced constantly. Did you know that BILLIONS of cells are replaced each day? Since you have trillions of cells in your body, that really isn’t much, but it is important to note. As you begin to make changes in your life – new food, less junk, new relationships, less stress – your body adapts. As it adapts, it needs different things. A bi-annual review is much needed, and it gives you a reason to reflect on your changes over the past six months.
Where to start? With questions! In the last six months:
- What new medications have you added to your lineup?
- What new supplements have you added?
- Have you changed brands?
- Have you reviewed how your new or existing medications and supplements affect one another?
- What have you changed in your diet?
- Have you gained or lost more than 10 pounds?
- Have you been diagnosed with a long-term disease?
- Have you been experiencing any new symptoms (insomnia, gut issues, anxiety, etc.)?
Medications. Almost every drug on the market – over the counter and prescription – has interactions with other things in your life. Example. If you are taking antibiotics and are on the pill, you will need to find another way of preventing pregnancy for 3 – 4 weeks. Certain medications will lower the nutrient intake. Example. Diuretics can cause potassium levels to drop. Some medications have very adverse effects when combined with supplements. Example Blood thinners and fish oil, garlic, ginger, vitamin E and vitamin K. Medications can even interact with normal over the counter foods. Example. Grapefruit and Zocor or Lipitor. There are even certain supplements that shouldn’t be taken together. Example. Magnesium and calcium. When combined, the magnesium absorption is reduced. As a side note, you should never be taking calcium as a supplement.
Recommended reading: https://www.webmd.com/interaction-checker/default.htm
More recommended reading: https://www.health.com/mind-body/mixing-supplements
More recommended reading: https://www.besthealthmag.ca/list/16-prescription-drugs-supplements-never-mix/
Always make sure you understand what cannot be mixed with your medications when you are given a prescription. Your health practitioner should always ask you what you are taking daily. Even an occasional allergy pill may cause a reaction.
Another thing to check regarding your medications, is asking your health practitioner if you actually need the medications you are on. A healthy adult into their 80s and even 90s should not need regular medications for any length of time. If you want to reduce the number of medications you are taking, understand what is needed health-wise to get off them and begin working towards that with your health practitioner. Never stop taking a medication without your health practitioner’s blessing.
Supplements. Supplements should be taken sparingly. If you live in an area where certain vitamins or minerals are low, you are right to take a supplement. Example. Approximately 80% of all Americans are iodine deficient. The reason for iodized table salt is iodine deficiency. You should be getting all your nutrients from your food. Take time to review your supplements and only take the ones that are really necessary. If you are taking unnecessary supplements, your body may begin making less and that will throw off your natural rhythms. Some supplements are not organic nor non-GMO in nature, some do not contain the proper doses, and others don’t also contain the additional nutrients needed to ensure the supplement is absorbed properly. Remember, you get what you pay for. Ensure you do your proper research for anything that you consume.
In short, don’t take any medication or supplements unless absolutely needed. Always go for food nutrition first. If you do need either, ensure you are reviewing them bi-annually and removing all that are not absolutely necessary – with the approval of your health practitioner.
Blessings – E