More than half of all American adults take some kind of vitamin, but most don’t think they need to tell their doctor. All vitamins, minerals, supplements, and detox regimens are medically important.
Common supplements that can interact with medications include St. John’s wart, feverfew, vitamin E, garlic, Co Q10, fish oil, and vitamin D.
Millions of Americans are also taking probiotics for digestive health. There’s evidence that some probiotics may help prevent diarrhea caused by infections or antibiotics.
People who take more than one medication or supplement are at high risk for a potentially negative interaction, some of which can take weeks to develop.
When possible, foods, not supplements, are the best sources of nutrients. That’s because produce is packed with other naturally occurring substances that are good for you, too.
Be sure to have a doctor or pharmacist review that lists at least once a year and look for possible drug interactions.