Interactions between certain foods and medications or treatments can cause unwanted side effects and even harm to your health. It’s essential to be aware of potential interactions to avoid any risks. If you are currently taking any medications, and experience any adverse reactions—such as dizziness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or digestive upset—please consult with an online doctor or online pharmacist to ensure you’re taking the proper dosage.  Here are six foods that can adversely interact with some medications or treatments:

1. Cranberries
While cranberries are healthy, they can interfere with blood thinners like Warfarin, leading to a higher risk of bleeding. Consult your healthcare provider before adding cranberries to your diet if you’re taking blood thinners.

2. Dairy products
Milk can interfere with some antibiotics, reducing their effectiveness. If you’re taking antibiotics, consult an online doctor or pharmacist about the best time to consume dairy products. Aged cheeses, in particular, may contain high levels of tyramine, which can interact negatively with some medications, including MAOIs. Consult an online doctor or pharmacist before consuming aged cheeses if you’re taking these medications.

3. Leafy green veggies
Leafy greens like spinach and kale contain vitamin K, which can interfere with blood thinners like Coumadin. Consult your healthcare provider before adding leafy greens to your diet if you’re taking blood thinners.

4. Pickled smoked, cured and fermented foods
These foods contain high levels of tyramine, which can interact negatively with some medications, including MAOIs. If you’re taking these medications, consult an online doctor or pharmacist before consuming pickled or fermented foods. The same goes for smoked or cured meats, which contain high levels of sodium, which can interact negatively with high blood pressure medications. Consult an online doctor or pharmacist before consuming smoked or cured meats if you’re taking high blood pressure medication.

5. Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking medications such as painkillers, antibiotics, or anti-anxiety medication can lead to adverse reactions. Consult an online doctor or pharmacist before consuming alcohol while taking medications.

6. Grapefruit
This fruit contains compounds that can interfere with the enzymes that break down some medications, such as statins and high blood pressure drugs. Consult an online doctor or pharmacist before consuming grapefruit if you’re taking these medications.

It’s essential to be mindful of food interactions while taking medications or undergoing treatments. Consult an online doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure about what foods to avoid or how to manage your diet while taking medications. Additionally, if you’re managing diabetes, meal kits and prepared meals can be a convenient option, but it’s crucial to monitor their ingredients and their interactions with insulin or other diabetes medications, such as Semaglutide, Ozempic, Glucofort, or Evolocumab.