Most of us do not think twice before taking medication , and it often happens before or after meals. If we have a habit of taking medication at breakfast, along with fruit juice, for example, this can lead to a reaction to the medication.
Researchers have found that taking drugs with these fruit juices can change the way the drug works and reduce its effectiveness.
Juice from grapefruit
It is known to react with 40 different medications , and there is an increased risk of being affected by their side effects. It is advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit juice in the morning and when taking medication if you suffer from high cholesterol, hypertension or cardiac arrhythmia .
It has been found that medications designed to treat these conditions can interact with grapefruit juice.
Cranberry juice
If you are taking warfarin - an anticoagulant that is used to prevent heart attack , stroke and blood clots, it is advisable to avoid taking it with this fruit juice.
Researchers claim that cranberry juice contains compounds that may affect warfarin's metabolism or its ability to act on blood clotting.
Pineapple juice
In case we are taking blood thinners, we should avoid pineapple juice . It contains the compound bromelain, which can affect the absorption of drugs, especially if we take warfarin.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy or taking atenolol should also avoid consuming pineapple or grapefruit juice, as these otherwise healthy drinks may interact with medications .