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.