For many of us September feels like the start of a new year, even though we are still in 2019. As we reflect back over the last 2 1/2 years we have been writing our Wise Words Wednesdays blog, there are posts that generated great interest that are still quite applicable today. In our next few weeks we will highlight some of the top viewed posts and encourage you to use the search bar on the charltonhealthcare.com website to find answers to many of the common questions we receive from our patients.
As an example, I was recently asked about magnesium supplementation from a patient who is on an acid lowering medication. I knew I had written on the topic. We searched “magnesium” in the search bar on our website’s homepage and voila, here is the post that was displayed. It is still great information and I have added a little more…
#WiseWordsWednesday: Do medications affect nutrition?
See the original blog here.
Some medications can affect the way our nutrients are absorbed from the stomach. One class of medications known to have this effect are called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These medications lower stomach acid production and are commonly taken with anti-inflammatory medications to reduce stomach irritation. Many people use these medications to reduce reflux of acid which causes heartburn.
The issue with lowering stomach acid is that some nutrients require acid for absorption. In the presence of low acid, magnesium, vitamin B12, and iron are all poorly absorbed. This can have many effects such as low energy, restless legs, and leg cramps. Our pharmacists can help suggest the best types of supplements to restore these levels. Whenever possible, supplements that can be dissolved on or under the tongue are preferred over those that must be swallowed, as it allows for direct absorption into the blood stream instead of requiring absorption through the stomach.
Magnesium glycinate or bisglycinate is a form of magnesium that is well absorbed and has less adverse effects in regards to affecting bowel routine. It is often taken before bed and can promote better sleep quality as well as reduce restless leg syndrome and leg cramps. Most preparations contain 150-200mg of elemental magnesium per capsule. Dosing ranges from 1-3 nightly, starting at 1 nightly and increasing as needed as long as there is bowel tolerance.
Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.