A FRIEND recently told me she had a very bad stomach upset after eating prawns and washing the meal down with fresh orange juice.
It was like food poisoning, she said, adding there were warnings on the Internet and social media about such combinations.
Is the correlation for real, or did she eat rotten prawns? I’ve received similar messages, but don’t know how far it’s true. This brings to mind many other warnings such as taking panadol with coke, or eating durians and drinking alcohol, especially whisky and brandy. Are these urban legends merely anecdotal incidents, or are they for real?
I’ve yet to come across concrete reports with scientific evidence stating that such combinations are detrimental to one’s health or can be fatal. But on the same note, I wouldn’t want to tempt fate by trying it out myself.
Food combinations have always been a hot topic for health enthusiasts. Some have become fads that affect how one enjoys one’s meals, like not taking carbs together with protein. These days, you have to make an effort to sift fact from fiction. I just don’t know what to believe anymore.
The important thing to remember is how to take medications and with what. We have to be especially mindful of our loved ones too. It helps that many doctors and pharmacists impart warnings and reminders when prescribing or dispensing medication.
For example, there have been enough evidence and warnings that grapefruit affects medicines that contain statins to lower cholesterol, and certain antihistamines for allergies. As a rule, avoid taking grapefruit and certain types of oranges, like Seville oranges, with medication.
When you’re on antibiotics and/or iron supplements, you should avoid taking dairy products and minerals such as calcium and magnesium as the protein casein makes it harder to process certain antibiotics. It can interfere with the absorption of the antibiotics, making it less effective.
Certain vitamins can also interfere with drug efficacy. Be careful about taking self-prescribed doses of iron supplements and vitamin K. Iron supplements can interfere with medications for hypothyroidism, while vitamin K can make blood thinners less effective, putting you at higher risk of a blood clot. Even cranberry juice has been said to increase the effect of some blood thinners.
Antihistamines definitely help with allergies, but some can make glaucoma worse or make medication for high blood pressure less effective and raise your heart rate.
There is a list out there about drinks we shouldn’t take with our medicines. Alcohol is, of course, at the top of the list. Most medicines come with a warning to avoid taking them with alcohol, especially with antihistamines, painkillers and medication for diabetes. Not only will you get drowsy, it also interferes with your concentration and ability to drive and operate heavy machinery. The booze makes your liver work harder to break down alcohol and medications at the same time. Overworking your liver can eventually increase your risk for liver damage. In some cases, alcohol interactions may make the medicines harmful or toxic to the body.
Personally, and as a general rule, I’ve always felt that it is best to take medicines or supplements with water. You can drink whatever you want after that, but wait at least half an hour after taking your medicines so that they are able to do what they’re supposed to do.
Another point to remember is that just because something is natural, it doesn’t always mean it’s good for you. Many of us buy in on this fact and take herbal remedies, vitamins and minerals along with medications prescribed by our doctor.
Unfortunately, it has been suggested that some of the popular supplements like garlic, fish oil, ginger and even green tea can clash with prescribed medicines. So remember, natural does not always equal safe, not when you don’t combine them correctly.
Do read the product leaflet that comes with the medication. It is bothersome because the paper is as thin as onionskin and the print is tiny. However, that was how I found out that a certain medication prescribed for my late mother was contraindicated for the illnesses she had. I raised this point with her doctor who quickly prescribed something else with fewer risks.
It’s always a good idea to work with your doctor and tell him what you’re taking, especially if you have multiple illnesses like hypertension, heart disease and diabetes.
If you’re due for surgery, it’s best to avoid taking certain medications like blood thinners at least three days prior, and herbal products at least one or two weeks prior to surgery and during the post-operative period.
If you need multi-vitamins or supplements, check with your doctor about taking them, and whether you can take them together or at different times.
Note: The content of this column is provided for general information only, and not to be substituted for proper medical advice and diagnosis. Always consult your doctor if you’re in any way concerned about your health..
Putri Juneita Johari volunteers for the Special Children Society of Ampang. You can reach her at juneitajohari@yahoo.com
The article above is brought to you by AmMetLife Insurance Berhad.