Do you also take medicine immediately for minor problems like a headache, mild fever, or acidity? If yes, then this habit can gradually cause a deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals in your body. Dietitians and nutrition experts say that many commonly taken medicines, such as aspirin, antacids, paracetamol, and antibiotics, not only provide a temporary solution to the problem, but also affect the absorption of essential nutrients in the body.

According to Dr. Garima Goyal (Dietician and Nutritionist), "Take medicines only when needed, and if any medicine needs to be taken for a long time, then along with it, attention should also be paid to nutritional supplementation."

Which medicine can cause what harm?

Aspirin

• Effects: Decreases absorption of vitamin C, weakens the intestinal lining.
• Risks: Risk of anemia (may increase by 20% - according to the ASPREE trial ), decreased iron stores.

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

• Effect: Reduces the amount of glutathione in the body.
• Risks: Effects on liver function, and increased risk of serious diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and infections.

Birth Control Pills

• Effects: Deficiency of folic acid, vitamins B2, B6, B12, C, E, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.
• Risks: Fatigue, weakened immunity, and impact on reproductive health if consumed for a long time.
• Suggestion: According to the WHO, those who consume them for a long period should take nutritional supplements.

Metformin

• Effect: Inhibits absorption of vitamin B12.
• Risks: Nerve damage (neuropathy), tingling in arms and legs, weakness.

Antacids

• Effect: Reduces acid production in the stomach, which prevents the release of vitamin B12.
• Risks: Calcium, potassium, and zinc deficiency; bone weakness, fatigue.

Statins (Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs)

• Effect: Reduces CoQ10 enzyme.
• Risks: Muscle pain, weakness, fatigue; also affects heart health.

Antibiotics

• Effect: It also kills the good bacteria in the body.
• Risks: Effects on the digestive system, weakened immunity, obesity, allergies, and metabolic syndrome.

Steroids

• Effects: Decreases calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and potassium.
• Risks: Weakening of bones (osteoporosis), muscle cramps, fatigue.

Symptoms that may indicate a hidden nutritional deficiency include:

• Feeling tired frequently
• irritability or depression
• muscle weakness or cramps
• Hair loss or dry skin
• Digestive problems
• become prone to diseases

What to do? Solutions and prevention

• Before using medicines for a long time, discuss nutrient balance with your doctor.
• Get blood tests done regularly so that any nutrient deficiency can be identified in time.
• Take multivitamin supplements as advised by your doctor or dietician.
• Include in your diet: Green vegetables, fruits, pulses, nuts, seeds, and probiotic-rich foods.

PC:Punjab Kesari