Hello everyone,
This is Yoko Maeda, Supervising Physician of Aesthetic Internal Medicine at BIANCA.
Do you know that taking medications can lead to nutrient deficiencies?
Medications are essential for alleviating various symptoms, but their use can unknowingly contribute to nutrient deficiencies.
Today, we’ll discuss three commonly used medications—oral contraceptives (the pill), ibuprofen (pain reliever), and antibiotics—and the nutrients they may deplete.
1. Oral Contraceptives (The Pill)
Oral contraceptives, commonly referred to as “the pill,” are used to prevent unwanted pregnancies and treat menstrual issues such as cramps, irregular periods, and PMS.
However, taking the pill can deplete several vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.
Vitamin B group deficiencies can lead to fatigue and skin issues, while folic acid deficiency is particularly concerning for those planning a future pregnancy. It’s important to replenish these nutrients intentionally.
2. Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen)
Ibuprofen, commonly used for its antipyretic and analgesic effects, is a popular choice for headaches and menstrual pain.
However, it can lead to deficiencies in iron and folic acid, which may cause anemia. People who are prone to anemia should pay extra attention.
3. Antibiotics
Antibiotics are prescribed to kill bacteria that cause illnesses, such as during colds. However, they can deplete several nutrients, including vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin K, pantothenic acid, and biotin (all part of the vitamin B group).
Deficiencies in these nutrients, like with the pill, can result in fatigue and skin issues.
Even if you’re consuming a balanced diet, taking these medications could inadvertently lead to nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to actively replenish these nutrients while using these medications.
Foods to Replenish Nutrients Lost with Medications
Nutrients Depleted by the Pill and Recommended Foods:
- Folic Acid: Broccoli, edamame, mushrooms
- Vitamin B6: Lean meat, bell peppers, bananas
- Vitamin B12: Clams, oysters, mackerel, sardines
- Vitamin C: Acerola cherries, yuzu, lemons
- Vitamin E: Eggs, almonds, soybeans
- Magnesium: Grains, legumes, seeds, seaweed
- Selenium: Tuna, smelt, sardines
- Zinc: Seafood, meat, nuts
Nutrients Depleted by Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen) and Recommended Foods:
- Iron: Lean meat, bell peppers, bananas
- Folic Acid: Broccoli, edamame, mushrooms
Nutrients Depleted by Antibiotics and Recommended Foods:
- Vitamin B1: Nuts, soybeans, cauliflower
- Vitamin B2: Broccoli, edamame, mushrooms
- Vitamin B6: Lean meat, bell peppers, bananas
- Vitamin B12: Clams, oysters, mackerel, sardines
- Vitamin K: Seaweed, vegetables, legumes, meat
- Pantothenic Acid: Chicken liver, chicken breast, eggs
- Biotin: Liver, egg yolks, soybeans
When taking these medications, be mindful of incorporating the foods listed above. If it feels challenging to get all the necessary nutrients through food alone, supplements can be a helpful alternative.
However, certain supplements and medications may interact, so consult with a professional at BIANCA if you have any concerns.
If you’re unsure about:
- Supplements or medications that shouldn’t be taken with the pill
- Nutrient depletion from your regular pain relievers
- The compatibility of the pill and vitamin C
Feel free to ask!
From an aesthetic internal medicine perspective, we can review your current medications and propose the necessary nutrients and recommended supplements to suit your situation.
Bookings are available on website or dm us @bianca_clinic_tokyo
All our consultations, treatments and after care are assisted by a translator (English and Chinese available)
We’re looking forward to seeing you, Sara xx