Like DivaKimberly, I am not a medical professional and what I’m posting below is my opinion based upon my experience. If you have questions, you should consult your doctor.
Not only do prescription medications have the potential of robbing you of nutrients, or preventing the full absorption of the nutrients you eat, but other lifestyle choices can have the same affects.
Smoking. People who smoke can lose Vitamin E. Vitamin E is important because it can help your body fight cancer. If you’re a smoker, you may wish to consider taking a Vitamin E supplement in addition to a multi-vitamin.
Alcohol. Alcohol consumption affects the body on many levels. Because alcohol can suppress hunger, your body will naturally take in fewer nutrients. Heavy alcohol consumption can cause malnutrition and have a devastating effect on your liver and other organs. If you find yourself eating less and drinking more, it’s a very good idea to talk with your doctor.
Exercise. If you partake in strenuous exercise, or if you’ve been sick with a stomach virus, you can deplete your body of needed electrolytes. It’s always a good idea to have a bottled or powdered form of a sports drink on hand for these occasions.
Vitamin C is extremely important — not only because of its direct effects — but also because it allows your body to absorb other vitamins as well. For instance, when I was having problems with my hair, my doctor advised that I take B vitamins — with Vitamin C to help my body use the B vitamins. In studies I have read, the pill form of the B vitamins is apparently used by the body as well, if not better, than the injection form. I was happy to learn that because I thoroughly detest shots! After taking the B vitamins, my hair (which had been falling out!) began to come in thick and strong again.
As DivaKimberly mentioned, some medications can affect your body’s absorption of certain nutrients. When I took medication for lowering cholesterol, I had symptoms that bothered me enough to go off the medication. They included weakened hair and nails as well as an inability to concentrate. I realize now that the likely culprit was the way my body was handling the nutrients I consumed. I have been taking medication for diabetes for several years now. I checked and found that my medication can rob the body of Vitamin B12 and I now take a supplement with more than the minimum requirement to hopefully counterbalance the effect of the medication.
If you’re taking any medication or your lifestyle choices impact your body, then a frank discussion with your medical practitioner may be in order.
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