
In fact, fiber has been proven to play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
High-Fiber Foods and Fiber SupplementsDietary fiber, the kind found in whole grains, vegetables and fruits, is an important part of a nutritious diet. The key is to communicate with the prescribing doctor about one’s usual diet and they will tweak anticoagulation therapy to fit one’s lifestyle factors and prevent blood clots. According to O’Connor, it’s okay for people on these medications to consume a moderate amount of leafy greens like spinach consistently (for example, a one-half cup serving two to three times a week). However, taking blood thinners doesn’t mean that seniors must forgo healthy food choices. But, for people taking blood thinners like warfarin, munching on too much green can be bad.ĭahmer warns that vitamin K promotes blood clotting, which may counteract the blood-thinning benefits of anticoagulant drugs. Leafy GreensSpinach, kale, cabbage and broccoli receive high praise in health food circles for their vitamin K content, minerals, fiber and low calorie count. Many family caregivers use home remedies like cranberry juice or cranberry extract to prevent and manage recurrent UTIs, but this juice contains chemicals that may interact with warfarin (Coumadin) and some statin medications. Cranberry JuiceUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and potentially serious problem for seniors. O’Connor says that a low-tyramine diet is typically recommended for people taking these medications. MAOIs (Nardil, Parnate) are a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat depression. This risk is increased for elders who have impaired kidney function.īananas also contain tyramine, an amino acid found in red wine, soy and certain cheeses that can negatively interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). According to the FDA, people taking ACE inhibitors (Lotensin, Capoten, Zestril) or ARBs (Cozaar) may develop hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) and dangerous heart palpitations if they over-indulge on potassium-rich foods. Designed to lower blood pressure, these medications also reduce potassium excretion via urination. However, eating too many potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges and green, leafy vegetables can be problematic if a person is taking ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). BananasA potassium powerhouse, bananas are typically a good choice for those seeking to reduce their risk of cancer, stroke and heart disease.
She offers a straightforward solution for enjoying the health benefits and flavor profile of grapefruit without the risk: swap it with another citrus fruit, such as oranges, lemons, limes or some combination of these. Kelly O’Connor, RD, LDN, CDE, outpatient oncology dietitian at the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health System’s Kaufman Cancer Center, warns that certain sodas like Squirt and Fresca can also contain grapefruit juice, so it’s important to carefully check beverage labels, too. Dahmer says that consuming grapefruit with any of these medications may increase the risk of side effects and adverse events. Grapefruit products are contraindicated for patients who are taking certain prescription drugs like statins (Lipitor, Mevacor, Zocor), immunosuppressants (cyclosporine), calcium-channel blockers (Adalat, Afeditab, Procardia, Plendil), psychiatric medications (BuSpar, Zoloft) and benzodiazepines (Valium, Triazolam, Halcion). However, even small amounts of grapefruit juice can interfere with important intestinal enzymes and change how some medications are metabolized by the body.
Grapefruit and Grapefruit ProductsVitamin C, fiber and potassium are just a few of the health perks of eating grapefruit. In brief: fexofenadine (allegra) and fruit juice.5 Foods That Can Trigger Food-Drug Interactions
By the way, doctor: Is it okay to drink grapefruit juice, as long as I don't take my statin at the same time? Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School. Portland, OR: Oregon Health & Science University.
Fruit juice, organic anion transporting polypeptides, and drug interactions in psychiatry.
Grapefruit juice and lisinopril update#
Food-drug interactions precipitated by fruit juices other than grapefruit juice: An update review. New York, NY: Elsevier Health Sciences.Ĭhen M, Zhou SY, Fabriaga E, Zhang PH, Zhou Q. Intestinal drug interactions mediated by OATPs: a systematic review of preclinical and clinical findings. Yu J, Zhou Z, Tay-sontheimer J, Levy RH, Ragueneau-majlessi I.