Nutrition: Practical Tips on Supplements, Diet & Medication Interactions

Want straight talk about supplements and nutrition without the hype? You’re in the right place. On this tag page you'll find quick, usable guides — from herbal supplements like Sceletium and wood anemone to real-world issues like how medications (for example, phenytoin or pantoprazole) can change nutrient needs or interact with herbs.

How to choose supplements safely

Start with food first. Whole foods give you fiber, vitamins, and minerals in balanced amounts. Use supplements to fill gaps, not replace a healthy diet.

• Check testing labels: Look for third-party seals (USP, NSF, or similar). They reduce the risk of contamination and wrong dosages.
• Read the ingredient list: Standardized extracts and clear dosages matter. Avoid products with vague terms like “proprietary blend.”
• Stick to recommended doses: More isn’t always better. High doses can cause side effects or interact with medicines.
• Buy from trusted sources: Use licensed pharmacies or reputable retailers. Several of our posts cover safe online pharmacy options and how to spot scams.

Common interactions to watch for

Supplements can change how drugs work. That can lower a drug’s effect or raise side effects. Here are a few practical flags:

• St. John’s wort: Lowers levels of many drugs, including some antidepressants and birth control.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Can raise levels of statins and certain blood pressure meds.
• Herbs that affect mood: Sceletium, St. John’s wort, and similar supplements may interact with SSRIs or other antidepressants.
• Blood thinners: Garlic, ginkgo, and high-dose fish oil may increase bleeding risk with warfarin or other anticoagulants.
• Drug-related nutrient loss: Some meds (like proton pump inhibitors) can lower B12 or magnesium over time. Monitoring helps.

If you take any prescription drug, tell your pharmacist about supplements and herbal products. A two-minute check can prevent serious problems.

On this tag page, you’ll find articles that dig into specific meds, alternative treatments, and lesser-known supplements — for example, our pieces on Sceletium, wood anemone, and how certain drugs affect breastfeeding or nutrient status. Use those guides to get specific info, then talk with a clinician before you start anything new.

Want to explore posts now? Scroll down the list to read detailed guides, safety tips, and practical product advice. If you’re unsure about a combo of a drug and a supplement, your pharmacist is the fastest, most practical resource.