However, taking certain supplements together can cause more issues than benefits.
Here are seven supplement combinations you should not take together or should be careful about combining.
To avoid this, Simpson recommends taking zinc and calcium supplements at least two hours apart.
Photo:Eating Well/Abbey Littlejohn
In particular, iron supplements with 25 milligrams of iron or more could be problematic for zinc levels.
I recommend taking zinc with food as it has a tendency to cause nausea, recommends Hernandez.
There are also risks of taking St. Johns wort with serotonin-boosting supplements.
Stick to one serotonin-supporting supplement at a time, she says.
Before starting any of these supplements, we suggest speaking with your health care provider for individualized guidance.
Turns out ginseng may have similar effects.
So, taking the two together could cause issues.
They may simply recommend that you start taking them a few hours apart.
Also, keep in mind that its more likely that youll encounter issues if youre taking high-dose supplements.
This is the best way to ensure your unique combination of supplements is safe to take.
The Bottom Line
Whenever possible, prioritize food over supplements.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Zinc.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Calcium.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Iron.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.St.
John’s Wort and Depression: In Depth.
2019;10(1):51-64. doi:10.1007/s13167-018-0158-2
