Medication and Supplements: Managing Heart Health and Diabetes

Regarding medication and dietary supplement issues?

Hello Doctor, I am 180 cm tall, weigh 140 kg, and am 27 years old.
I was diagnosed with diabetes after experiencing acute pancreatitis.
In February of this year, one night during dinner, I suddenly felt dizzy and had a rapid heartbeat, which led me to visit the emergency room.
Subsequent follow-up ECGs were normal, and the 24-hour Holter monitor also showed normal results.
However, during an echocardiogram, the doctor noted some left ventricular hypertrophy but advised me not to worry too much since I am still young and losing some weight would significantly help.
The doctor recommended that I purchase a blood pressure monitor to check my readings daily.
Currently, my daily readings are around 120-130/80-90 with a heart rate of 75-105.
A few days ago, during a follow-up visit, my blood test results showed total cholesterol at 211, fasting blood glucose at 108, S-GPT at 55, HDL at 35, and LDL at 139.
My current medications include Amlodipine 30 mg, Metformin 500 mcg, Glimepiride 150 mg, and Lisinopril 2 mg, with the first three taken once in the morning and evening, and the last one taken once in the morning.
Lastly, I would like to ask the doctor about the medications and my situation.
After my emergency visit in February, I purchased zinc gluconate 50 mg, soy lecithin 400 mg (containing 35% phosphatidylcholine), and African plum extract 100 mg.
Can I take these three supplements together with my medications, and how should I take them for the best results? Thank you!

KenPan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/13

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, I am not clear about the effects of these three dietary supplements, so I apologize for not being able to tell you how to take them.
It should be fine to take them together, but if you're concerned, you can space them out by an hour.
However, I believe that exercising more and losing weight would be more beneficial than those three pills.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/05/13

More Info

Managing heart health and diabetes, especially in the context of medication and supplements, requires careful consideration and consultation with healthcare professionals. Given your medical history, including acute pancreatitis, diabetes, and recent concerns about heart health, it is crucial to approach the use of supplements alongside your prescribed medications with caution.

Understanding Your Current Medications
You are currently taking several medications:
1. 合必爽錠 (Amlodipine) - This is a calcium channel blocker used to manage high blood pressure and angina.

2. 美舒樂膠囊 (Methylcobalamin) - This is a form of vitamin B12, often used for nerve health and to treat deficiencies.

3. 信美寧膠囊 (Simvastatin) - This medication is used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

4. 力清之膜衣錠 (Lisinopril) - An ACE inhibitor that helps lower blood pressure and protect kidney function, particularly important for diabetic patients.

Your Supplements
You mentioned taking the following supplements:
1. 葡萄糖酸鋅 (Zinc Gluconate) 50mg - Zinc is essential for immune function and may play a role in glucose metabolism.

2. 大豆卵磷脂 (Soy Lecithin) 400mg - Lecithin is a source of phospholipids and may support heart health and liver function.

3. 非洲刺李 (African Plum Extract) 100mg - Often used for prostate health, but its effects on heart health and diabetes are less well-established.

Can You Take These Supplements with Your Medications?
Generally, the supplements you are considering do not have known significant interactions with the medications you are currently taking. However, here are some considerations:
1. Zinc: While zinc is generally safe, high doses can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, particularly antibiotics and some blood pressure medications. It is advisable to take zinc at least 1-2 hours apart from your other medications to minimize any potential interactions.

2. Soy Lecithin: This supplement is typically safe and may even support heart health by improving lipid profiles. However, it is essential to monitor your cholesterol levels regularly, as you are already on Simvastatin.

3. African Plum Extract: The safety and efficacy of this supplement are less well-studied, especially in combination with other medications. It is best to consult with your healthcare provider before adding this to your regimen.

Recommendations for Managing Heart Health and Diabetes
1. Diet and Exercise: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Given your diabetes, controlling carbohydrate intake is crucial. Regular physical activity can help manage weight, improve heart health, and regulate blood sugar levels.

2. Regular Monitoring: Continue to monitor your blood pressure and blood glucose levels as advised by your physician. Keeping track of these metrics will help you and your healthcare team make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

3. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting any new supplement, discuss it with your healthcare provider, especially given your complex medical history. They can provide personalized advice based on your health status and current medications.

4. Weight Management: Since you mentioned that losing weight could improve your heart condition, consider working with a nutritionist or a dietitian who can help you create a sustainable weight loss plan tailored to your needs.

5. Medication Adherence: Ensure that you take your medications as prescribed. If you have concerns about side effects or interactions, discuss these with your doctor rather than discontinuing any medication on your own.

In conclusion, while the supplements you are considering may not pose significant risks when taken with your current medications, it is essential to approach this with caution and under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Your overall health management should focus on a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, regular monitoring, and open communication with your healthcare team.

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