While supplements are often marketed as beneficial for your health, combining certain ones can lead to dangerous interactions. These interactions can counteract their intended effects or, worse, cause organ damage or other severe health issues. Understanding the risks of these supplement combinations is crucial for maintaining your overall well-being.
Red yeast rice and niacin are two commonly used supplements for lowering cholesterol. Although both can be effective individually, taking them together can be harmful. According to Dr. Todd Sontag, a family medicine specialist, combining these supplements doesn’t enhance their benefits and may cause liver damage. Even when taken alone, niacin can sometimes lead to a side effect known as “niacin flush,” which causes pain and discomfort. If you experience these symptoms, it’s a sign to reduce your niacin dosage.
Another risky combination is fish oil and ginkgo biloba. Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is often used to lower blood pressure and improve heart health, while ginkgo biloba is a herbal supplement known for its blood-thinning properties. However, using them together can increase the risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Dr. Tod Cooperman, president of ConsumerLab.com, advises spacing these supplements at least two hours apart to reduce the risk.
St. John’s wort, a popular herbal remedy for depression, should never be taken with antidepressants. Both work to increase serotonin levels, and taking them together can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms include muscle rigidity and seizures. Dr. Robbert Glatter, an emergency medicine expert, emphasizes the importance of avoiding this dangerous pairing.
CoQ10, a compound used to support heart health and manage diabetes, can also cause harm when combined with diabetes medications. This combination can lead to dangerously low blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Dr. Glatter highlights that the overlapping effects of these substances can create severe complications, making it essential to monitor your intake carefully.
Garlic supplements, often used for their heart health benefits, can interact negatively with blood-thinning medications such as Tylenol, aspirin, or prescription anticoagulants. Garlic, like ginkgo biloba and fish oil, has natural blood-thinning properties. Combining these can heighten the risk of internal bleeding, especially after an injury or fall. Additionally, turmeric, ginger, and vitamin E have similar effects and should be taken cautiously with blood-thinning medications. Dr. Glatter warns that these combinations can cause dangerous bleeding episodes.
The common thread in these dangerous pairings is that they involve substances with similar effects. Doubling up on supplements or medications with overlapping functions increases the risk of adverse reactions, from organ damage to life-threatening conditions. It’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional before combining any supplements or medications.