There are supplements out there for so many different things, from simply filling any nutrient gaps in your diet to promoting sleep and even boosting your metabolism. However, while you may be tempted to grab every supplement on the market in order to improve your body and brain, it’s important to remember that certain supplements and medications can have dangerous consequences when combined.
To shed some light on a few supplements you should never take together, we checked in with Dr. Kevin Huffman, founder of Ambari Nutrition. He told us that vitamin D and calcium, vitamin C and iron, and tea supplements and iron are all combos that should be avoided for your health and safety. Read on to learn more.
1. Vitamin D and calcium
On their own, vitamin D and calcium supplements can be a great way to keep your body functioning at the best of its ability. These nutrients are both known for their benefits on your bone health, in particular. However, Dr. Huffman says you should avoid combining these supplements.
"High doses of both can result in excessive calcium being absorbed into the bloodstream, a condition known as hypercalcemia," he warns. "Hypercalcemia can lead to increased risk of heart and other cardiovascular issues as well as kidney stones."
If you do want to take both of these supplements, he offers a word of advice: "Spread the two supplements by a couple of hours to avoid excessive calcium absorption." Got it!
2. Vitamin C and iron
If you're not getting enough vitamin C into your diet, taking a supplement can help protect your body from the effects of free radicals. Likewise, an iron supplement is a great idea for anyone who may be experiencing an iron deficiency. But it's not a good idea to take them together.
"Vitamin C is exceptionally effective at increasing iron absorption in the body, which can lead to iron toxicity if the vitamin supplement is taken in high doses," Dr. Huffman tells us. "If you have to take both supplements, then make sure to take one of the supplements at least two hours after taking the other to avoid toxicity."
3. Tea/curcumin and iron
Finally, Dr. Huffman notes that green tea, matcha, and curcumin supplements can lead to adverse effects when taken alongside iron supplements. While the former are often touted as good supplements for people who are looking to lose weight, they could interfere with your body's iron absorption.
"These ingredients block the absorption of iron," Dr. Huffman notes. Ultimately, this could lead to ineffectiveness from your iron supplement, further putting you at risk of an iron deficiency. "Even drinking green tea and matcha beverages is not advisable when taking iron supplements and can lead to further iron deprivation in your blood," he says. Who knew?!
The bottom line
In many cases, taking multiple supplements will be just fine, and could even lead to greater health benefits overall. However, it's crucial to stay aware of any possible risks at hand. These potentially dangerous combos that Dr. Huffman has shared are just a few.
You should also speak to a doctor before adding any new supplement or medication to your regimen, as there are certain options out there that are dangerous even on their own.
