Medicines That Heal but Steal: How Common Drugs Can Quietly Drain Your Nutrients
Medicines That Heal but Steal: How Common Drugs Can Quietly Drain Your Nutrients
Experts warn that long-term use of everyday medications may trigger hidden deficiencies with serious health consequences
Medicines are designed to treat illness and restore balance—but what many people don’t realize is that long-term use of certain common drugs can slowly deplete the body of essential nutrients. Over time, this silent drain can leave individuals with fatigue, poor immunity, weakened bones, and even nerve damage—symptoms often mistaken for unrelated health issues.
Dietitian and Nutritionist Dr. Garima Goyal explains that medications like aspirin, birth control pills, antacids, and even antibiotics interfere with the body’s ability to absorb or utilize vitamins and minerals. “People think side effects only come from the drug itself, but nutrient depletion is an often-overlooked consequence,” she notes.
Here’s a closer look at how some of the most commonly used medicines affect the body:
- Aspirin: Prolonged use can hinder the absorption of vitamin C and iron, weakening immunity and reducing energy levels.
- Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills): Studies show that estrogen and progesterone in OCs lower levels of folic acid, B vitamins (B2, B6, B12), vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. The World Health Organization recommends supplementation for women on long-term use.
- Metformin (for type 2 diabetes): Interferes with vitamin B12 absorption in the intestines. Over time, this raises the risk of nerve damage (neuropathy) and worsens fatigue.
- Antacids (PPIs and H2 blockers): By reducing stomach acid, they block the release of vitamin B12 from food. Long-term use may also lower calcium, potassium, and zinc, impacting bones, muscles, and overall health.
- Statins (for cholesterol control): These lower levels of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), essential for energy production in muscles. Deficiency may cause weakness, inflammation, or muscle pain—common complaints among statin users.
- Steroids: Affect nutrient balance in multiple ways—reducing calcium and vitamin D absorption, depleting magnesium and potassium, and interfering with B vitamins. This combination weakens bones, raises osteoporosis risk, and contributes to cramps, fatigue, and poor nerve function.
Experts stress that while these medicines are vital in managing conditions, patients and doctors must remain mindful of long-term nutrient depletion. Supplementation, diet adjustments, or periodic nutrient testing may help prevent hidden complications.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medication or supplement routine.
