In many cases, dietary supplements can play a supportive role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, benefitting your heart and overall health. They help by providing essential nutrients that might be missing from your regular diet, thereby aiding your body in operating at its best. However, it’s vital to keep in mind that some of these supplements are not without their risks.
Some can be dangerous if taken inappropriately, and others might lead to negative interactions when used in conjunction with different substances. To gain insight into which supplements you should be cautious about mixing, we consulted Dr. Kevin Huffman, founder of Ambari Nutrition.
We also checked in with pain management doctor Sean Ormond. The two experts informed us that pairing Vitamin E with K, Vitamin D with Calcium, and Vitamin C with Iron can be problematic. Continue reading to understand the potential hazards of these combinations.
Doctors Share 3 Supplement Pairings That Could Be Dangerous For Your Heart And Overall Health
1. Risks Of Combining Vitamin E With Vitamin K
Both Vitamin E and Vitamin K contribute significantly to your overall health. Vitamin K strengthens bones and aids in blood clotting, thus minimizing bleeding. On the other hand, Vitamin E is vital for maintaining good vision, reproductive health, and brain function. Obtaining these nutrients from your diet can promote your well-being.
However, Dr. Ormand advises against taking high doses of these vitamins through supplements simultaneously. "Vitamin E and vitamin K are both fat-soluble vitamins that can interact with each other," he explains. "Taking high doses of both vitamins together can increase the risk of blood clots." As one study notes, "Given both nutrients' critical involvement in coagulation, in extreme cases, this interaction can result in abnormal blood clotting."
2. Potential Drawbacks Of Vitamin D With Calcium
Taking vitamin D and calcium supplements individually can be an excellent strategy to maintain your body's optimal performance. These nutrients are especially recognized for their positive impact on bone health. However, Dr. Huffman advises against using these supplements together.
"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," he stresses.
If you decide to use both of these supplements, he provides a piece of guidance: "Spread the two supplements by a couple of hours to avoid excessive calcium absorption."
3. Possible Downsides Of Vitamin C With Iron
If your diet lacks sufficient vitamin C, a supplement can aid in shielding your body from the damage caused by free radicals. Similarly, for those with an iron deficiency, an iron supplement can be highly beneficial. However, it is advisable not to consume them simultaneously.
"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. He continues: "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."
The Bottom Line
In the end, though supplements can aid in maintaining heart health, it’s crucial to remember that obtaining nutrients straight from your food is always the optimal choice. As cardiologist Dr. Bhaskar Semitha tells us: "I always encourage aiming for a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods first, as they provide the vitamins in safe, effective amounts alongside other heart-protective nutrients."
He also emphasizes the necessity of routine health examinations to confirm that nutrient levels remain ideal. Ultimately, maintaining heart health and preventing other illnesses hinges on consistent physical activity, a nutritious diet filled with whole foods, and various preventive strategies.
