Making Sure Your Medicines Help You, Not Hurt You
As we age, our bodies work harder to break down the medicines we take to provide the most health benefits. Medicines (prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication, and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs) are complex substances. But, if you understand what it takes for your body to use your medicines, you can help your body get the most benefit from the medicines with the least risk.
Drug Absorption and Digestion Process
Once you take a medicine or supplement your body must absorb, deliver, and get rid of the leftovers.
The first step is to absorb what your digestive system has broken down. Once in your liver, the broken-down compound travels to the part of your body that needs the medication. The final step in the process is getting rid of the leftovers from the medicine or supplement.
This last step is where most side effects happen, according to Andrew Rubman, M.D. He notes that many of these leftovers are eliminated by bile (which is made from cholesterol). If you are taking medicine to lower cholesterol, you might be at extra risk for side-effects because your body may not get rid of the leftovers as effectively.
What You Can Do
To be sure that you are giving your digestive system and your liver all that it needs to function at its best, Dr. Rubman suggests the following:
1.Know your B12 level. Your liver needs B12 to work properly. Talk with your doctor about having your B12 level checked and taking a supplement. (B12 can be harmful if too much is taken.) Dr. Rubman suggests that your B12 level should be 1250 mg/dl.
2.Eat lots of fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Dr. Rubman suggests that 50% or more of your diet should be made from foods high in fiber.
3.Boost your digestion. Since your digestion plays an important role in the break down of medications and supplements it is important that you do what you can so that it operates at full force. Chew your food completely. Drink very little liquids while eating. Eat a balanced diet.
Source: Dr. Andrew Rubman is the founder and medical director of the Southbury Clinic for Traditional Medicines in Connecticut. He also served as an advisor for the White House Commission for Complementary and Alternative Medical Policy.AARP Resources
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