Health Question and Ask
Tips on Getting Enough iron.
Harm from Herbs?
Q= I take herbal remedies now and then. Is there any danger in taking traditional medication at the same time?
A= There could be. You run the risk of potentially harmful interaction, says retired USDA botanist and herbal expert James A. Duke, Ph.D. Mixing herbal remedies and prescription or nonprescription medicines may strengthen or weaken the effect of the remedy or the drug. As a result, you may experience unpleasant side effects or prolong your recuration from an illness. To avoid problems, always inform your physician of any herbs you`re taking -even healing teas. Here is a guide to common herbs and possible interactions:
Herbs remedy: Echinacea
May react with: Medications that boost the immune system or fight infection, such as antibiotics, vaginal preparations or corticosteroids used to treat asthma.
Herbs remedy: Ginger
May react with: Digestive aids such as antacids
Herbs remedy: Ginkgo biloba
May react with: Antidepressants, especially Nardill and Parnate (ginkgo biloba may intensify their effect)
Herbs remedy: Ginseng
May react with: Stimulants such as No-Doz or Vivarin.
Herbs remedy: St. John`s wort
May react with: antidepressants such as Paxil, Prozac or Zoloft
Herbs remedy: Valerian
May react with: Antianxiety medications or sedatives, such as Ativan, Seconal or Valium.
Pump Up Your Iron
Q= Do i need to take an iron supplement each month when I get period?
A= Not unless your doctor has examined you and found your iron levels to be low. “The trick to having good iron stores is to pay attention to your iron intake all month long, not just during period,” says Jeanne Goldberg, P.D., R.D. Women who are menstruating regularly need 15 milligrams of iron per day, and the best way to get it is by eating the right foods.
Top sources are red meat, fish and poultry because they contain iron that is easy for the body to absorb. Good non meat sources are beans, tofu and iron-fortified cereal. Eat or drink a vitamin C-containing food, such as red pepper or orange juice, along with nonmeat iron sources to boost absorption.
