Your food and your medication may not be getting along

Apr 14, 2026 | 6:01 AM


TO YOUR HEALTH – Consuming juice or cereal with your medication may reduce its effectiveness or even pose risks.

Prince George pharmacist Brianna Pallot notes that food-drug interactions are more common than many realize, and everyday kitchen items are often responsible.

“What’s on your plate can change how your body processes medication,” Pallot says.

Grapefruit juice is a well-known example, but Pallot explains that dairy products can be equally problematic. Calcium in milk and other dairy foods can prevent proper absorption of certain thyroid and bone medications.

Fortunately, eliminating your favourite foods is not always necessary. Proper timing can make a significant difference, and your pharmacist can provide guidance.

Pallot recommends that anyone starting a new prescription consult their pharmacist about possible food interactions. This brief discussion can determine whether a medication is effective.