Dr.'s Blog

In modern medicine, medications CAN play a crucial role in treating a wide range of health conditions. Ideally, these are taken in emergency situations, only when absolutely needed. Although many of us are aware that “side-effects” exist (think about the laundry list of side-effects that are listed at the end of a commercial), medications have also been advertised as being “lifestyle” medications. As in, the drug companies WANT you to be on their drugs, and take them the rest of your life. Yes, certain meds may be necessary (ex. type 1 diabetes) to manage a condition in the long term, but this is only a small piece of that industry. Most conditions that are ‘treated’ with drugs, are Lifestyle Induced conditions. Meaning, your body is not broken. It is not lacking those medications. The body has just been in a state of dysfunction and is in a state of survival. It requires an environment to support and foster HEALING, not continual intoxication and deterioration by taking medications and not addressing the underlying source of dysfunction.

Drugs also have various side effects and impact the body in complex ways. (We call them “side effects”… like they’re bad luck or Understanding these impacts is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. This article will explore different types of medications, their physiological effects, and the nutrients that may be depleted or utilized by these medications, along with recommendations for specific supplementation.

Types of Medications and Their Known Side Effects

Antibiotics

• Use: Treat bacterial infections.
• Common Side Effects: Diarrhea, nausea, allergic reactions, yeast infections.
• Physiological Impacts: Disruption of gut microbiota, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues and weakened immune function.

Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)

• Use: Treat depression and anxiety disorders.
• Common Side Effects: Weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, fatigue, insomnia.
• Physiological Impacts: Alteration of neurotransmitter levels, affecting mood and cognitive function.

Antihypertensives

• Use: Manage high blood pressure.
• Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, fatigue, electrolyte imbalances.
• Physiological Impacts: Affect vascular resistance, cardiac output, and fluid balance.

Statins

• Use: Lower cholesterol levels.
• Common Side Effects: Muscle pain, liver damage, increased blood sugar, digestive problems.
• Physiological Impacts: Inhibit cholesterol synthesis, which can impact muscle function and liver health.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

• Use: Reduce pain, inflammation, and fever.
• Common Side Effects: Gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Physiological Impacts: Inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes, affecting inflammatory processes and gastrointestinal health.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

• Use: Treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and stomach ulcers.
• Common Side Effects: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, increased risk of bone fractures.
• Physiological Impacts: Reduce stomach acid production, impacting digestion and nutrient absorption.

Physiological Impacts of Medications

Medications can have various physiological effects on the body, ranging from altering neurotransmitter levels to affecting organ function. These impacts can lead to a range of side effects and influence overall health.

• Gut Health: Antibiotics, for example, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to gastrointestinal issues and weakened immunity. PPIs reduce stomach acid, which is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.
• Neurotransmitter Function: Antidepressants alter levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which can impact mood, cognition, and overall brain function.
• Cardiovascular Health: Antihypertensives and statins influence blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can affect heart health and vascular function.
• Musculoskeletal Health: Statins can cause muscle pain and weakness, potentially impacting physical activity and overall mobility.

Nutrients Impacted by Medications

Certain medications can deplete or utilize essential nutrients, leading to deficiencies and other health issues. Supplementation can help mitigate these effects.

Antibiotics

• Depleted Nutrients: Probiotics, Vitamin K, B Vitamins.
• Recommended Supplementation: Probiotic supplements to restore gut flora; B Vitamins for energy and nerve health; Vitamin K for blood clotting.

Antidepressants

• Depleted Nutrients: Coenzyme Q10, B Vitamins (especially B12 and Folate), Vitamin D.
• Recommended Supplementation: Coenzyme Q10 for cellular energy; B12 and Folate for mood and cognitive function; Vitamin D for overall health.

Antihypertensives

• Depleted Nutrients: Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, Coenzyme Q10.
• Recommended Supplementation: Potassium and Magnesium for electrolyte balance; Zinc for immune function; Coenzyme Q10 for cardiovascular health.

Statins

• Depleted Nutrients: Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin D.
• Recommended Supplementation: Coenzyme Q10 for muscle and heart health; Vitamin D for bone and immune health.

NSAIDs

• Depleted Nutrients: Folic Acid, Iron, Vitamin C.
• Recommended Supplementation: Folic Acid for cell production; Iron for blood health; Vitamin C for immune function and tissue repair.
  
  
  Proton Pump Inhibitors

• Depleted Nutrients: Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin B12.
• Recommended Supplementation: Magnesium and Calcium for bone health; Vitamin B12 for nerve and blood cell health.

How to Support Your Body While Taking Medications

1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods to help counteract potential depletions.
2. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help your body process and eliminate medications.
3. Regular Monitoring: Work with your healthcare provider to regularly monitor nutrient levels and adjust your diet or supplements as needed.
4. Supplements: Consider targeted supplements to address specific nutrient depletions caused by your medications.
5. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and adequate sleep, to support overall well-being and medication efficacy.

Conclusion

Medications are invaluable tools in managing health conditions, but they can also have significant impacts on the body. Understanding these impacts and addressing nutrient depletions through diet and supplementation can help maintain overall health and well-being. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication or supplement regimen to ensure safe and effective management of your health.

By being proactive and informed about the effects of medications and how to counteract their potential downsides, you can take charge of your health and optimize your well-being.

References:

1. Nutritional Supplements in the Treatment of Depression
2. Effects of Statins on Muscle Performance
3. Impact of NSAIDs on Gastrointestinal Health
4. Nutrient Depletions and Medications
5. The Role of Probiotics in Restoring Gut Health

Other resources:

Interesting blog on specific nutrient depletion from psychiatric meds

https://www.optimallivingdynamics.com/blog/7-important-nutrients-depleted-by-psychiatric-drugs-antidepressants-antipsychotics-stimulants-benzodiazepines-induced-guide-vitamins-medications