Antibiotics and Nutrition

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The discovery of antibiotics has been a major factor with our increased life expectancy. You have probably had an occasion to be on antibiotic therapy. Over the last couple of decades, misuse of antibiotics has led to bacteria that have become resistant to many of the current antibiotics. It is important to take your antibiotics as prescribed, not just until you feel better. Getting the best result from your antibiotic helps you get rid of a bacterial infection.

There are a couple of nutrition related areas to be aware of regarding antibiotics. Some antibiotics will interact with certain minerals. These minerals include magnesium and aluminum, which are found in anti-acid medications. Other minerals that can interact with some antibiotics include Iron, Calcium and zinc. Check your supplements to see if these are included.

Some ready to drink Protein Shakes can be fortified with these minerals. Calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and aluminum will interact with some antibiotics and make them less effective. You will need to take these minerals several hours apart from the antibiotic.

Something else to be aware of is that antibiotics kill bacteria, both the good ones and the bad ones. Therefore, do not take an antibiotic at the same time you take something with Probiotics in it like yogurt, kefir or a probiotic supplement. Your antibiotic can kill some of the good bacteria and not have enough left to kill all the bad bacteria. Take the time to read the insert that comes with your antibiotic. If you need further help, consult with your medical team, including your pharmacist. Taking your antibiotic correctly will allow your body to have the best chance to get rid of a bacterial infection.

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Hmm, I always heard to take antibiotics with yogurt, so that the yogurt can combat the bacterial imbalance in your gut, and reduce the side effects from abx. Never realized that it could compromise the efficacy of the antibiotics. I will have to study that further.