Nutrient Depletion
While prescription and over-the-counter drugs can have lifesaving benefits, many of the top 100 drugs prescribed in the U.S. have been shown to deplete a variety of nutrients. In fact, when taken regularly, some frequently prescribed medications can diminish or deplete the body's stores of important vitamins and essential nutrients, causing all sorts of annoying and dangerous side effects.
"Every pharmaceutical we ingest will deplete the body of various nutrients," says Dr. Derrick De Silva, attending staff at Raritan Bay Medical Center, New Jersey, US
It is estimated that up to 30 percent of pharmaceutical side effects are the result of drug-induced nutrient deficiencies. What's more, these nutrient deficiencies can often cause additional side effects and even create new diseases within the body.
America's Most Trusted Pharmacist, Suzy Cohen, discussed in her top selling book "Drug Muggers" the negative impact of nutrient depletion caused by drugs. For Instance, the widely used cholesterol-lowering statin drugs (e.g., Lipitor, Crestor, Zocor) rob you of Coenzyme Q10, which powers your heart beat and keeps you from becoming weak or developing leg cramps. Estrogen-containing drugs (e.g., birth control pills) deplete you of certain nutrients like iron and selenium, leaving you hypothyroid, depressed and tired. Additionally, women may develop a vaginal yeast infection and men could get jock itch. It's all because of the drug-mugging effect of antibiotics, these drugs kill probiotics- the body's good bacteria.
Diabetic medications (e.g, Glucophage) deplete the body of vitamin B12, which protects you from stroke & heart attack. Blood pressure medications and steroids, like Prednisone, deplete the body's supply of magnesium, which is needed for a healthy, stable mood and for attention span. Without enough magnesium, a person could become irritable or anxious; and may develop conditions such as low-attention span (ADHD), depression, panic attacks, and high blood pressure.
The targeted use of nutritional supplements is an effective solution for avoiding drug-induced nutritional depletion. Natural supplements replenish the system with essential vitamins and minerals that may help alleviate a range of common deficiency symptoms. Nutritional supplements can reduce side effects caused by medications, increase daily comfort and energy, and help to improve the outcome of your doctor's prescribed therapy.
Keep in mind that NOT all supplements are created equal and it's important to learn how to buy the highest quality supplements. A good supplement should be tested for efficacy and bioavailability, ingredients and raw materials tested for purity and potency by independent certified laboratories, and be free of common allergens and toxins such as: wheat, gluten, egg, soy, dairy, preservatives, coatings, binders, fillers, and colorings. Be warned; the cheapest supplement may not be the one to benefit you best, as it may not be absorbed and utilized by the body.
Schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable pharmacists and nutritionists to find the best way to ensure your body stays strong while taking both prescriptions and supplements. (248) 663-3390.
