Category Archives: Safety

Interactions with Natural Supplements

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By Dr. Jen O’Sullivan

Many people do not realize the medications they are taking may interact with supplements. Here are some tips on how to avoid issues.

  • Do not take natural supplements at the same time as coffee or highly caffeinated drinks (green tea is safe). Doing so will block the absorption of some vitamins and minerals.
  • If you are on a blood thinner regimen from your doctor, please pay extra attention to which supplements you should avoid, as they will cause a doubling effect. 
  • Do not take natural supplements at the same time as pharmaceuticals. Doing so may cause your liver to not process your medications properly, or it may double up the effect you are needing, which could cause dizziness or fainting. Give a two to four hour buffer between consuming caffeine and/or pharmaceuticals and any natural supplements.
    EXAMPLE: If you are supposed to take your medications in the morning, shift all natural supplement use to lunchtime. If you are supposed to take your medications at night before bed, shift all natural supplement use to dinnertime. 

Are Your Meds Depleting Vitamins and Minerals?

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By Dr. Jen O’Sullivan

How do you determine if your meds are depleting certain vitamins and minerals? How do you know if they are interacting or counteracting any supplements you are taking or vice versa? Here are some steps to take to make sure!

STEP 1: First look up the name of the drug and what it is used for.

STEP 2: Next look the drug name up on https://mytavin.com/ to see what it depletes.

STEP 3: Next do an online search using the name of the drug along with the words “side effects”.

STEP 4: Next do an online search using the name of the drug along with the words “what to avoid”.

STEP 5: Next do an online search using the name of the drug along with the words “supplements to avoid”.

STEP 6: Go to your doctor and show them your findings. Determine what medications need to be changed or timed differently. Determine which foods you need to avoid and when to take your supplements (4 hours away from medications is best).