Latest news with #KellyPlowe
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
7 Best High-Volume Foods for Weight Loss, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDChoosing lower-calorie foods lets you eat more without overshooting your calorie intake. Popcorn, strawberries and broccoli are just some of the high-volume foods you can enjoy. You may need to add other foods with healthy fats and protein to keep your diet if you could eat more food and still lose weight? That's the concept of a 'volumetrics' diet, which focuses on consuming higher quantities of very low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods. When you choose items with fewer calories, you're able to eat more without overshooting your daily intake goals. 'High-volume, low-calorie foods are a great choice for weight loss because we eat with our eyes first, and large portion sizes often signal satisfaction,' says Alexandria Hardy, RDN, LDN. 'These foods tend to be high in water content and fiber, which can increase satiety without adding excessive calories.' It's no wonder, then, that a volumetrics-based eating plan comes in at No. 3 on U.S. News and World Report's 2025 ranking of best weight-loss diets. If you're looking to fill up on foods you can enjoy in higher quantities and still reach your weight-loss goals, check out this list of seven dietitian-approved picks. There's long been a rumor that cucumbers are a 'negative calorie' food, meaning they contain less energy than it takes for your body to digest them. While scientific evidence doesn't necessarily support this idea, cucumbers are still an extremely low-cal food at just 15 calories per cup., Mandy Enright, M.S., RDN, recommends cucumbers as a snack you can crunch on throughout the day. 'Slice into sticks, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, and pair with hummus or Greek yogurt dip,' she suggests. 'You can even use cucumber slices instead of bread for bruschetta.' Want a sweet food that packs plenty of health benefits but not a lot of calories? Load up on strawberries. Besides containing a mere 49 calories per cup, they're packed with water, fiber and vitamin C, shares Hardy. They've even been associated with reduced inflammation, improved insulin resistance and lower cholesterol., , 'Strawberries are a delicious, low-calorie, high-volume food,' says Hardy. 'Try them sliced on a salad or grain bowl, chopped on overnight oats or rolled in 1 to 2 teaspoons of cinnamon sugar and frozen.' Slathered-in-butter movie-theater popcorn may not be the best option for low-calorie snacking, but an air-popped variety is an excellent choice. At just 31 calories per cup, it's a crowd-pleaser you can feel good about munching on movie night. 'Three cups of salted air-popped popcorn clocks in at under 100 calories and provides a satisfying, high-fiber, whole-grain crunch,' says Hardy. (Yep, popcorn is a whole grain!) Need a little something for flavor besides salt? 'Spritz with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs or nutritional yeast for a savory snack,' suggests Hardy. 'Whether sliced, whole or as a large portabello cap, mushrooms are low in calories and packed with B vitamins and phytonutrients like beta-glucan that can help reduce inflammation,' says Enright. White mushrooms, for example, are one of the lowest-calorie foods around, with just 15 calories per cup (raw). Fungi are also über versatile—there's no end to the meals you can make with them. 'Use portabellos as a bun or mini pizza base or dip raw mushrooms into hummus or bean dip for a fiber- and nutrient-rich snack,' suggests Enright. There's no need to throw back to the '80s and go on a grapefruit diet. (In fact, for your health, we strongly advise against it.) Still, Enright says there's a reason the citrus fruit is such a consistent fan favorite for weight loss. She points to a cup of grapefruit's minimal calorie count (69 calories), high water (92%) and filling fiber (2.5 grams). 'Pair half a grapefruit with a protein like cottage cheese or a hard-boiled egg, and top with chia or hemp seeds for a balanced breakfast or snack,' suggests Enright. Or make a tangy salad with grapefruit, beets and greens. Leafy greens aren't just garnish. They're a veritable superfood, adding color and nutrition to all sorts of dishes. 'Choose dark leafy greens like spinach, arugula, kale or bok choy for a variety of nutrients including vitamins A, C, K, folate and iron,' recommends Enright. A 1-cup serving of kale, for example, provides 68% of the Daily Value of vitamin K and 20% of the Daily Value of vitamin C—at just 7 calories to boot. 'You can pile your plate high for very few calories,' says Enright. 'Enjoy [leafy greens] raw as a salad base, dehydrated (like kale chips), or sautéed as a simple side.' Even if you dish up a whole forest of these mini trees, you won't overdo it on calories. Per cup (raw), broccoli has just 31 calories. Broccoli also packs fiber and contains plant compounds that have been linked to lower inflammation and reduced risk of certain cancers. There's no shortage of ways you can enjoy broccoli. 'You can steam, roast, air-fry, shred or rice it, then toss into stir-fries, slaws or quesadillas,' says Hardy. Try these 20 broccoli recipes you'll want to make forever. Putting more food on your plate doesn't have to mean putting on weight. Nutrient-dense foods that are lower in calories can allow you to enjoy larger portions, even as you slim down. Just keep in mind that you'll likely need to add other foods to keep your nutrition balanced. 'Many high-volume, low-cal foods are also low in protein,' Enright points out. 'To create more balanced and satisfying meals, pair them with lean proteins from plants (like beans or tofu) or animals (like chicken, eggs or low-fat dairy).' Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The #1 Fruit to Help Lower Inflammation, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDChronic inflammation can lead to discomfort, slowed recovery and chronic diseases. Cherries are the top inflammation-fighting fruit thanks to their polyphenol content. Cherries can improve joint pain, exercise recovery and fight chronic is the body's way of defending itself against an injury or harmful substance. But when inflammation lingers for a little too long (aka chronic inflammation), it can lead to prolonged discomfort, slow recovery and chronic inflammatory diseases. Medications are often used to manage inflammation, but lifestyle factors, like our diet and the foods we eat, also play a valuable role. Fruit, in particular, contains a wealth of nutrients that can help keep inflammation at bay. But one fruit stands out above the rest due to its rich array of anti-inflammatory compounds. With their distinctive long stems and vibrant red color, cherries have earned the top spot as the No. 1 fruit to tackle inflammation. To break down why cherries top the list, dietitians are sharing their insights on the inflammation-fighting benefits of this remarkable fruit. We're sharing the reasons why cherries, whether fresh, frozen, juiced or dried, are the best anti-inflammatory fruit. Cherries come in over a hundred varieties, but Montmorency tart cherries and Bing sweet cherries are some of the most widely grown. Both varieties are rich in polyphenols, a group of plant compounds known for their powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They are particularly high in a class of polyphenols called anthocyanins. Among the two, 'sweet cherries tend to be higher in anthocyanins, the deep red and purple pigments that give cherries their color,' says Lizzie Streit, M.S., RDN, LD, author of The Complete Guide to Anti-Inflammatory Foods. 'These compounds act as antioxidants, protecting cells in your body from damage that drives inflammation,' Streit explains. Streit highlights that cherries may help bolster the body's defenses against chronic inflammation, which has been linked to the development of chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that eating cherries regularly may help lower blood pressure, improve lipid levels and enhance blood vessel function. The anti-inflammatory benefits of cherries also extend to the joints. More specifically, Streit shares that eating cherries and drinking cherry juice may help prevent gout flare-ups. Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints, often starting in the big toe or lower limbs. Studies suggest that drinking tart cherry juice helps to reduce inflammation and lower uric acid levels in the body., Tart cherry juice has also been found to ease joint pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis. Unlike gout, researchers aren't sure what triggers the breakdown of joint tissue that occurs with osteoarthritis. But what they have found is that tart cherry juice helps to reduce inflammatory markers, like C-reactive protein, that are associated with osteoarthritis symptoms. Intense workouts often trigger inflammation as part of the body's natural repair process. While this response is normal, managing the inflammation that accompanies exercise is key to effective recovery and performance. Fortunately, 'researchers have found that the consumption of cherries decreases markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and exercise-induced muscle soreness,' says Angie Asche, M.S., RD, CSSD, a sports dietitian and founder of Eleat Sports Nutrition. However, to reap these benefits, timing matters. Studies emphasize that muscle function recovers more quickly if you drink cherry juice several days before exercising. Here are dietitian-approved ways to incorporate cherries into your diet to maximize their anti-inflammatory benefits. Cherries can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, but Streit shares that fresh cherries likely retain more heat-sensitive anthocyanins than their cooked counterparts. 'Enjoy fresh cherries on oatmeal, Greek yogurt or fruit salad,' shares Streit. 'They also taste delicious in savory preparations, such as salsas, salads and sauces.' If you're looking for a savory anti-inflammatory side, whip up our Cherry-Almond Farro Salad. For those who prefer sweet cherry dishes, give our Black Forest Cake-Inspired Overnight Oats a try. Cherry season usually begins in mid-May and lasts until early July. But what happens when the season ends? That's when stocking up on frozen cherries comes in handy. Picked and frozen at the peak of ripeness, frozen cherries retain most of their polyphenols, nutrients and flavor. Asche recommends tossing your frozen cherries into a smoothie with banana, protein powder, flaxseed, yogurt and your milk of choice. You can also try our highly rated Cherry Mocha Smoothie. Drinking cherry juice is a simple and convenient way to tap into its anti-inflammatory benefits. As you stroll down the juice aisle, look for options that say 100% cherry juice with no added sugar. But don't be swayed by the front of the bottle; always flip it over and read the ingredient list to ensure it's pure cherry juice with no other ingredients. If pure cherry juice isn't your vibe, try our Tart Cherry Nighttime Mocktail for more flavor and fizz. Chronic inflammation can impact everything from long-term health to exercise recovery. Luckily, there are natural ways to keep inflammation in check. One of the best ways to do so is to incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like cherries into your diet. Whether you enjoy them fresh, frozen or juiced, cherries are packed with potent polyphenols that can help lower inflammatory markers, alleviate joint pain and reduce muscle soreness. However, it's important to keep in mind that no single food can decrease inflammation alone. Instead, it's best to focus on balanced nutrition and lifestyle changes to achieve lasting benefits. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The 7 Best Snacks to Eat When You're Constipated, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDDiet is a crucial part of staying regular and your fiber intake is a key factor. Dietitians recommend fiber-filled snacks to help combat constipation. Popcorn, chickpeas, Greek yogurt and pear are some of dietitian's top picks for it means to be 'regular' varies from person to person. For some, going number two every day or even multiple times a day is 'normal.' Others might only have a bowel movement every other day. While everyone's regularity can vary, constipation is defined as not having a bowel movement more than three times per week. Constipation symptoms include having hard or dry stools and needing to strain to have a movement. If these symptoms sound familiar, know you're not alone. Constipation is common—as many as 16 out of every 100 U.S. adults report symptoms of constipation. Many factors can affect your regularity so it may take some sleuthing to get to the bottom of your constipation. What you eat is crucial, with fiber playing an important role. Choosing the right snacks can help you reach your fiber goals. Women should aim for at least 28 grams of fiber each day and mean should aim for 34 grams. Read on to find out why dietitians love snacks like roasted chickpeas, chia seed pudding, and popcorn for tackling constipation. An easy way to get a head start on hitting your fiber goals and combat constipation is to eat more legumes. That's why Julie Pace, RDN, recommends roasted chickpeas. 'They're packed with soluble fiber, which draws water into the gut to keep things moving along.' A handful of Cruncy Roasted Chickpeas (about ¼ cup) provides 5 grams of fiber or about 18% of the Daily Value of fiber. However, fiber isn't the only secret to chickpeas' ability to alleviate constipation. Chickpeas are also a source of prebiotics, which feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut. Research has found that maintaining a good balance of healthy bacteria in our microbiome supports digestion and may lessen constipation. While you can find roasted chickpeas in the store, they are also easy to make at home; try these Spice-Roasted Chickpeas or these Cinnamon-Sugar Roasted Chickpeas. Pace suggests drinking plenty of water when snacking on chickpeas to maximize the effect. One of the most popular natural remedies for addressing constipation is prunes (i.e., dried plums) and for good reason. 'Prunes are one of the easiest and most effective snacks for relieving constipation,' says Jessie Winstead, R.D., LD. 'They're a good source of fiber and contain sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that helps keep things moving through your digestive system.' Just one serving of prunes (about ¼ cup or 4 to 6 prunes) provides 4 grams of fiber or about 14% of your daily fiber needs for the day. Research has found that eating about a ½ cup of prunes a day significantly improved constipation symptoms including stool consistency and frequency. If snacking on prunes by themselves is unappealing, chop them up and add to a cup of yogurt, blend into a smoothie, or make these Sokolatakia (chocolate-dipped walnut stuffed prunes). When you hear the words 'whole grains'—foods like quinoa, oatmeal and brown rice likely come to mind. However, don't overlook popcorn. It's a conveniently snackable whole grain that could help ease constipation. That's because a one ounce serving (about 3 ½ cups popped) provides a whopping 4 grams of fiber. Beyond the fiber, popcorn is also rich in beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols which can support a healthier gut microbiome, an important factor for pooping regularly., Ditch buttery microwave popcorn and try your hand at making homemade popcorn which you can season to your liking. We recommend this Lime & Parmesan Popcorn or our Everything Bagel Microwave Popcorn. Hummus and veggies is a convenient and fiber-packed snack. But if you're looking to score even more fiber, swap your favorite hummus for black bean dip. Each serving of hummus has about 2 grams of fiber while the same serving of Easy Black Bean Dip has more than twice that at 5 grams. Pair your black bean dip with fresh cut veggies and you add even more fiber to one convenient snack. In addition to fiber, black beans are also a good source of magnesium, which is a mineral that could be helpful for constipation. If you're looking for a quick snack that's high in protein and can address constipation, reach for Greek yogurt. Although yogurt doesn't contain the fiber that we know is important for regularity, it does provide probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can help your gut microbiome flourish, which in turn, helps keep your digestive system in tip top shape. Research has shown that a thriving gut microbiome can decrease inflammation and may improve gut motility, both of which could help prevent constipation. To add to the constipation-relieving benefits of Greek yogurt, Marcie Vaske M.S, LN, CNS recommends choosing a plain or sugar-free variety and topping it with berries and ground flax. She says this combination of foods provides beneficial bacteria, water, and plenty of fiber; all of which can keep constipation at bay. You can also ditch the spoon and make a batch of this Raspberry-Lemon Greek Yogurt Bark. 'Chia seed pudding is the perfect concoction to get digestion moving. Chia seeds are rich in fiber which add bulk to stool and since they hold onto water, they regulate hydration to help with stool passage' says Sheri Gaw, RDN, CDCES. Make your chia pudding from a one ounce serving of dried chia seeds (about 2 tablespoons) and score 10 grams of fiber or nearly half of your daily fiber needs Not to mention, that fiber includes a combination of both soluble and insoluble fiber which is ideal for addressing constipation ASAP. Chia pudding is simple to whip up and the flavor variations are endless. Try our Mango, Passion Fruit & Coconut Chia Pudding or this Lemon-Blueberry Cheesecake Chia Pudding. Prunes aren't the only fruit that can tackle a sluggish digestive system. Pears are also a great choice. Alyssa Simpson RDN, CGN, CLT recommends 'warming up a chopped pear with a dash of cinnamon for a cozy, gut-friendly snack that's gentle but effective. Pears are rich in sorbitol, which helps pull water into the colon and soften stools'. In fact, just one medium pear provides 5.5 grams of fiber or about 20% of your daily fiber needs. If you have the time, you could batch prep these Baked Pears for the week and warm them up when you're ready to snack. If you are looking for a natural alternative to relieve constipation, adding the right snacks to your routine might be helpful. Look for snacks with plenty of fiber as well as other beneficial nutrients like prebiotics, magnesium, and sorbitol—all of which can help get your bowels moving again. Keeping your pantry stocked with dietitian-recommended snacks like roasted chickpeas, popcorn, chia seeds, and prunes means you'll be prepared for the next time you might be feeling backed up. Don't forget to drink plenty of fluids with your snack to maximize the potential benefits. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
7 Foods to Stock Up on at Costco If You Have High Blood Pressure, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDFoods found on the DASH diet provide fiber, potassium, omega-3s and more. Costco carries many dietitian-approved DASH diet-friendly foods including oats, nuts and berries. Other lifestyle factors like sleep, exercise and staying hydrated also help manage blood half of American adults have high blood pressure—a preventable and treatable risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The good news is, changes to your diet and lifestyle habits can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, and the DASH diet is a great place to start. Plus, you can shop for everything you need at your favorite neighborhood big box store—Costco! Unlike ultra-restrictive fad diets, the DASH diet encourages: Eating vegetables, fruits and whole grains Including fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, and vegetable oils Limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel and palm oils Limiting sugar-sweetened beverages and sweets In this article, we'll cover dietitian-recommended foods to stock up on at Costco for high blood pressure. Canned tuna is a convenient, affordable way to incorporate more protein into your meals and snacks. 'Tuna is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids,' says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD. Eating healthy omega-3 fats like DHA and EPA is linked to lower blood pressure. Plus, studies show that eating a variety of proteins from different sources—think meat, fish, beans and whole grains—can lower the risk of developing high blood pressure., 'Safe Catch Ahi Tuna is a convenient option available at Costco. It stands apart from other tuna brands because it guarantees a mercury level lower than the FDA action limit,' adds Manaker. Try our Lemon-Dill Tuna Salad between two pieces of whole-wheat bread as a sandwich or with tender Bibb lettuce. One serving has almost 30 grams of protein and less than 500 milligrams of sodium. 'Kirkland Signature unsalted mixed nuts are a great pantry staple to keep on hand for those looking to control or lower their blood pressure,' says Beverly Garden, RD, LDN. A 1-ounce serving contains no sodium, making it a great snack choice. About 70% of the sodium in our diet comes from packaged and processed foods, like many convenient snack foods. There's also 190 mg of potassium in a serving. That's only about 5% of your daily needs but it's still an added benefit, especially as a sodium-free snack. Research shows that consuming enough potassium, about 4,700 mg daily, is key to promoting healthy blood pressure. According to Garden, a potassium-rich diet can help manage blood pressure in two simple ways. First, it helps your body eliminate extra sodium through urine, which can reduce blood pressure. Second, potassium helps blood vessels relax, making it easier for blood to flow and lowering pressure in the blood vessels. 'Nuts are also a good source of fiber, and eating a high-fiber diet is associated with lower blood pressure,' says Garden. 'Costco is a great place to buy affordable, high-quality oils for cooking and salad dressings,' says Dana Taylor, M.P.A., RDN, LD. 'Look for extra-virgin olive oil, which supports healthy blood pressure, heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.' Studies show that olive oil's high oleic acid and antioxidant polyphenol content are beneficial for lowering blood pressure, and that's why it's often recommended as one of the best fat choices for hypertension. Looking for inspiration on how to use this heart-healthy oil? Check out our 13 Healthy Homemade Salad Dressings Made with Olive Oil or this Olive Oil-Braised Summer Squash. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a quick and healthy dinner. Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is a dietitian-approved Costco favorite for lowering blood pressure. 'With 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein per serving, quinoa makes a great addition to any salad, grain bowl or stir-fry,' says Ana Pruteanu, M.S., RD. Consuming a diet high in fiber, at least 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men daily, can help you manage high blood pressure. 'Gut microbes digest fiber, which creates short-chain fatty acids, health-promoting compounds with antihypertensive effects,' explains Pruteanu. There are many ways to boost your fiber intake with quinoa. The versatile gluten-free grain can be used in everything from grain bowls—try this Vegan Superfood Grain Bowl recipe—to healthy dessert recipes like our Almond Butter-Quinoa Blondies. Don't leave Costco without snagging the Kirkland Signature Three Berry Blend from the freezer aisle. 'Berries are packed with potassium and fiber, which play a key role in lowering blood pressure,' says Vanessa Imus, M.S., RDN. Forget about molding berries in the crisper drawer of your fridge. Frozen berries are incredibly versatile and have a longer shelf life than their fresh counterparts. 'You can toss them into Greek yogurt, blend them into a smoothie or even stir them into oatmeal for a heart-healthy, antioxidant-rich boost,' recommends Imus. Check out these 14 Recipes That Start with a Bag of Frozen Berries for inspiration. Registered dietitian Patricia Kolesa, M.S., RDN, recommends stocking up on Whole Grain Rolled Oats at Costco. 'Each serving contains 4 grams of fiber or 14% of the recommended daily value. Plus, they're sodium-free, making them an excellent choice for someone looking to reduce the overall amount of sodium in their diet.' Studies show that people who consumed whole-grain oats effectively reduced systolic blood pressure compared to people who consume refined grains. This was especially true in individuals with hypertension. Check out our Blueberry-Lemon Energy Balls, these High-Fiber Apple-Cranberry Baked Oats, and this Easy Savory Oatmeal recipe. Costco is a great place to buy heart-healthy salmon. Whether it's canned salmon or fresh, and both offer blood pressure-lowering benefits. 'Go for the Kirkland Signature Wild Alaskan pink salmon,' says Lisa Andrews, RD, LD. 'While these cans come in 6-ounce portions, they can be split to make two servings or shared with a friend.' Research shows that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish can help lower blood pressure by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function. 'Aim for at least two servings per week,' says Andrews. Check out our Salmon Salad-Stuffed Avocado recipe. Eating a healthy diet like the DASH diet is one way you can manage your blood pressure. Other lifestyle factors that help lower blood pressure include: Stay hydrated. 'Dehydration can cause the blood vessels to constrict, decreasing blood flow and raising blood pressure,' says Kolesa. The general rule of thumb is 64 ounces of water per day, but some people may need more depending on factors like activity level, health conditions, age and sex. Get moving. Aim for about 30 minutes daily or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly. Try this #1 Exercise You Should Be Doing for Better Blood Pressure. Prioritize sleep. Get at least seven hours of sleep per night for healthy blood pressure and disease prevention. Costco has a variety of heart-healthy ingredients to help lower your blood pressure. Aside from adding these dietitian favorites to your Costco cart, try following the DASH diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly and prioritizing sleep to help keep your blood pressure down. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
7 Medications That Don't Mix Well With Coffee, According to a Pharmacist
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDYour cup of coffee has health benefits, but it also interacts with some medications. Coffee may affect how a medication is absorbed, metabolized or removed from the body. An expert shares the seven drugs, like asthma and cold medications, that interact with the majority of people, coffee is part of their daily routine. It provides the energy boost you need to kick-start your day (hello, caffeine!), and boasts potential health benefits as well. The only drawback to your morning cup of joe is that it may not mix well with certain medications, especially if you take them earlier in the day. There are many different ways coffee may interact with some medications. 'Coffee can alter how certain medications are absorbed, metabolized or eliminated by the body,' says Jennifer Bourgeois, Pharm.D. 'It can speed up gastric emptying, causing the medication to move through your system before it's fully absorbed. It also competes with medications that rely on liver enzymes like CYP1A2, potentially increasing or decreasing drug levels in the bloodstream.' Don't worry, this doesn't mean you have to give up coffee completely, but you may need to adjust the timing of taking your medications and sipping on your coffee. Read on to find out which medications an expert warns may interact with your morning cup of joe. If your doctor has prescribed an antidepressant, you'll want to make sure you aren't drinking coffee too soon after taking one of these medications because it can make them not work as well as they're supposed to. For example, the caffeine in coffee can form a complex with the antidepressant drug escitalopram (Lexapro), making it harder for your body to absorb the medication. Since less of the drug is absorbed, it may be less effective. Other antidepressants like clomipramine and imipramine are broken down by the same enzyme (called CYP1A2) as caffeine. So if you're taking these medications with coffee, they may not be metabolized as quickly, which can lead to higher levels of the drug in your blood for a longer period. On the other hand, this interaction could increase the effects of caffeine, leaving you feeling jittery and restless. Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid (a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck) doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Without adequate hormone levels, you may start to experience excessive tiredness, joint and muscle pain, depression or weight gain. Bourgeois explains that the absorption of levothyroxine, used to treat hypothyroidism, can be significantly reduced by coffee. In fact, some studies found that it reduces your absorption of the medication by as much as 50%. 'This may lead to inconsistent thyroid levels and persistent symptoms like fatigue or brain fog,' says Bourgeois. 'That's why patients are advised to wait 30 to 60 minutes before drinking coffee after taking thyroid medications.' Medications used to treat osteoporosis, like risedronate and alendronate, shouldn't be taken with coffee. 'Whether it's caffeinated, decaf or even just milk or juice, these can all reduce absorption due to how the medication binds and dissolves. The safest practice is always to take this medication with plain water only,' says Bourgeois., Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is a nasal decongestant that can be purchased over the counter to help treat a stuffy nose from the common cold or allergies. Like caffeine, pseudoephedrine is also a stimulant. So when taken together with coffee, it may compound the side effects, making you feel more jittery and restless. Those with diabetes should be extra cautious when consuming caffeine on this medication—some studies found that combining the two can raise blood sugar and increase body temperature. People who take antipsychotic medications like phenothiazine, clozapine, haloperidol or olanzapine may need to adjust the timing of their morning coffee. Coffee can interfere with your body's ability to metabolize these medications. For example, clozapine competes with coffee to be broken down by liver enzymes. If the medication can't be metabolized, it becomes less efficient. A study found that the plasma concentration of clozapine was increased by 97% after taking it with 2 to 3 cups of coffee (about 400 milligrams of caffeine). If you have asthma, a condition that can make your airways inflamed and irritated, your health care provider may prescribe a bronchodilator like aminophylline or theophylline. These medications relax the muscles in your airways, making it easier to breathe. Common side effects of this medication include nausea, headache, restlessness and irritability. Consuming too much caffeine (from coffee, tea or energy drinks) can increase the side effects you may experience while taking this medication., Blood-thinning medications are often recommended for those who may be at risk for blood clots after surgery or have certain heart or blood conditions. Since these medications prevent blood from clotting, the most common side effect is the risk of bleeding. Taking these medications with coffee is risky since the caffeine in coffee can also slow blood clotting, which further increases your risk of bleeding or bruising. In addition, research has found that coffee can lower the pH in your stomach, which can increase the absorption time of other blood thinners like aspirin. Since it's absorbed faster, more is available to the body all at once, which can enhance the potential for bleeding. Many of us look forward to sipping on that first cup of coffee in the morning. While coffee is associated with plenty of health benefits, it's worth double-checking that it isn't interfering with any of your medications. Reviewing this list is a good place to start. If you're on one of these medications, you may need to adjust the timing of your coffee and medications. However, if you have specific questions about potential food or beverage interactions with your medications, be sure to check in with your health care provider. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
