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NUTRISI DAN
NUTRASETIKA
Suwaldi Martodihardjo, Prof.
Dr., MSc., Apt
Fakultas Farmasi UGM,
Yogyakarta
DAFTAR PUSTAKA
1. Lockwood, B., 2007, Nutraceuticals, 2nd Ed.,
Pharmaceutical Press, London.
2. Anonim, 2005, PDR Nutritional Supplements Guide.
3. Watson, R.R. and Preedy, V.R., 2004, Nutrition and
Heart Disease Causation and Prevention, CRC
Press, Boca raton.
4. Truswell, A.S., 2003, ABC of Nutrition, 4th Edition,
BMJ Publishing, London.
5. Zempleni, J. and Daniel, H., 2003, Molecular
Nutrition, CABI Publishing, Oxon.
6. Frost, G., Dornhorst, A., and Moses, R., 2003,
Nutritional Management of Diabetes Mellitus, John
Wiley & Sons, Chichester.
7. Talbott, S.M, 2003, A Guide to Understanding
Dietary Supplements, The Haworth Press, New
York.
8. Anonim, 2000, Integrative Medicine Professional
Access, Integrative Medicine Communications.
9. Wiki Contributors, 2007, Human Physiology,
diunduh dari
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Human_Physiology.
10.
Etc.
Deskripsi singkat kuliah Nutrisi dan
Nutrasetika
Secara keseluruhan mata kuliah Nutrisi dan
Nutrasetika berisi materi tentang:
 Arti penting nutrisi dan nutrasetika;
 Kebutuhan nutrisi manusia;
 Kebutuhan nutrisi spesifik;
 Kebutuhan nutrisi pada pasien dengan penyakit
tertentu;
 Penyakit mendeplesi nutrisi dan perlunya
nutrisi tambahan;
 Obat dapat mendeplesi nutrisi dan perlunya
nutrisi ditambahkan dalam terapi obat;
 Nutrisi-nutrisi yang berguna dalam terapi dan
dalam menjaga kesehatan. Nutrisi untuk
meningkatkan sistem imun, mencegah penyakit
kardiovaskuler, mencegah penuaan dini,
menurunkan kholesterol, memperbaiki fungsi
ginjal dan liver, memperbaiki mood dan
perilaku; mengurangi gejala asma, dan
pengatasan diabetes mellitus.
Arti penting Nutrisi dan
Nutrasetika
Nutrisi:
“Nutrients are chemical substances found in food
that are needed for life”
Enam kelas utama dan paling sedikit terdiri dari 45
jenis
 diperlukan oleh tubuh untuk pertumbuhan,
reproduksi, dan memelihara jaringan dan regulasi
tubuh
Enam kelas utama dan satu tambahan berupa
oksigen
 karbohidrat
 lemak
 protein
 vitamin
 mineral
 air
Nutrisi Utama
Nutrisi Esensial
Karbohidrat
Glukosa
Lemak
Asam lemak: asam linoleat
Protein
Asam amino: leusin, isoleusin, lisin,
metionin, treonin,
triptofan, valin,
fenilalanin, histidin
Vitamin
Vitamin larut lemak: vitamin A, D, E,
dan K
Vitamin larut air: tiamin, niasin,
riboflavin, biotin, folasin, vitamin B6,
vitamin B12, asam pantotenat, dan
vitamin C
Mineral
Mineral makro: Ca, P, Na, K, S, dan
Mg
Mineral mikro: Fe, Mn, Zn, Co, Mo, I,
Cr, V, Sn, Ni, Si, dan F
Air
Air
 Sumber energi: karbohidrat, lemak, dan protein
 Pertumbuhan dan menjaga normalnya jaringan:
protein, lemak, vitamin, mineral, dan air
 Mengatur proses-proses dalam tubuh: vitamin,
mineral, dan air.
KESEHATAN
 Kesehatan adalah keadaan sejahtera badan, jiwa,
dan sosial yang memungkinkan setiap orang hidup
produktif secara sosial dan ekonomi (UUKesehatan
no. 23 tahun 1992).
KECUKUPAN NUTRISI
 Nutrisi yang dibutuhkan oleh individu secara ratarata dalam sehari untuk mencapai derajat kesehatan
yang optimal.
 Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA):
Standar nutrisi yang dianjurkan untuk dimakan agar
dapat menjamin kesehatan sebaik-baiknya;
RDA  suatu kecukupan rata-rata nutrisi setiap hari
bagi hampir semua orang (97,5%) menurut golongan
umur, jenis kelamin, ukuran tubuh, dan aktivitas
untuk mencapai derajat kesehatan yang optimal.
RDA  Angka Kecukupan Gizi (AKG)
Hal-hal yang mempengaruhi kebutuhan nutrisi
individu:
1. Tahap Perkembangan
a. Sebelum dan setelah lahir  memerlukan
nutrisi esensial lebih tinggi dibanding masa
lainnya. Usia 6 bulan, bayi sehat bobot
badannya 2x bobot sewaktu lahir.
b. Pertumbuhan masa kanak-kanak (growth
spurt I, umur 1-9 tahun)  memerlukan
nutrisi protein, Ca, dan P.
c. Masa Remaja (growth spurt II, 10-19 tahun) 
memerlukan banyak nutrisi guna
pertambahan tinggi dan bobot; pertumbuhan
seksual terjadi pada masa ini.
d. Masa Dewasa (20-60 tahun)  masa kerja
fisik tinggi
Masa Dewasa madya (40-60 tahun) 
aktivitas mulai menurun dan BMR (basal
metabolism rate) relatif rendah. Nutrisi
diperlukan untuk pemeliharaan.
e. Masa Usia Lanjut (> 60 tahun)  penurunan
kegiatan fisik dan rentan terhadap penyakit.
Nutrisi digunakan untuk mengganti/
memperbaiki jaringan yang rusak. Di sini,
kebutuhan energi menurun tetapi protein
meningkat.
2. Fisiologi Tubuh
a. Kehamilan, nutrisi diperlukan untuk
pertumbuhan organ reproduksi ibu dan
pertumbuhan janin.
Jika wanita hamil pada bulan ke 4 s.d. ke 7
tidak bertambah bobot badannya,
kemungkinan akan melahirkan sebelum
waktunya atau melahirkan bayi dengan bobot
rendah (< 2,5 kg).
b. Menyusui, memerlukan lebih banyak nutrisi
untuk menghasilkan ASI
3. Keadaan sakit dan dalam penyembuhan
Penderita demam akan memerlukan lebih banyak
protein karena terjadinya perombakan protein
yang tinggi.
4. Aktivitas fisik, semakin tinggi aktivitas fisik maka
semakin tinggi pula keperluan nutrisinya.
5. Ukuran tubuh, individu yang besar memerlukan
energi lebih banyak daripada individu yang lebih
kecil.
Angka Kebutuhan Gizi/Nutrisi rata-rata yang dianjurkan (
Umur
0-6 bl
7-12b
1-3 th
4-6 th
7-9 th
PRIA
10-12
13-15
16-19
20-45
46-59
≥ 60
Wanita
10-12
13-15
16-19
20-45
46-59
≥ 60
Hamil
BB TB
Energi Protein Vit
(Kg) (Cm) (kkal) (g)
A
(µg
RE)
5,5 60
560
12
350
8,5 71
800
15
350
12
90
1250
23
350
18
110 1750
32
460
24
120 1900
37
460
Vit
Vit E Vit K Tiamin Ribo- Niasin
D
(µg) (µg) (mg)
.flavin (mg)
(RE)
(mg)
B12
(µg)
7,7
10
10
10
10
3
4
6
7
7
5
10
15
20
30
0,3
0,4
0,5
0,8
1,0
0,3
0,5
0,6
1,0
1,0
2,5
3,8
5,4
8
9
0,1
0,1
0,5
0,7
0,9
30
45
56
62
62
62
135
150
160
165
165
165
2000
2400
2500
2800
2500
2200
45
64
66
55
55
55
500
600
700
700
700
600
10
10
10
5
5
5
10
10
10
10
10
10
45
65
70
80
80
80
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,2
1,2
1,0
1,0
1,2
1,3
1,5
1,5
1,2
9
10
11
12
12
10
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
35
46
50
54
54
54
140
153
154
156
156
156
1900
2100
2000
2200
2100
1850
+285
54
62
51
48
48
48
+12
500
500
500
500
500
500
+200
10
10
10
5
5
5
10
8
8
8
8
8
8
10
45
55
60
65
65
65
65
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
+0,2
1,0
1,2
1,0
1,2
1,2
1,0
+0,2
8
10
10
9
9
8
+0,1
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
1,0
+0,3
Menyusui
0-6 bl
7-12 bl
+700
+500
+16
+12
+350 10
+300 10
12
10
65
65
+0,3
+0,3
.* Sumber: Widya Karya Pangan dan Gizi (1998)
PENENTUAN KEBUTUHAN
KECUKUPAN ENERGI
Perhitungan kecukupan nutrisi yang dianjurkan
berdasarkan rata-rata berat badan untuk masingmasing kelompok umur dan jenis kelamin.
Penyesuaian perbedaan berat badan ideal dalam AKG
dengan berat badan actual:
badan standar) X AKG
(Berat badan actual) / (berat
Contoh:
Seorang pia dengan usia 35 tahun mempunyai berat
badan 58 kg.
Hitung: Kebutuhan energy dan proteinnya.
Jawab: Dari Tabel diketahui BB pria usia 35 tahun
adalah 62 kg.
+0,4
+0,3
+0,3
+0,3
+0,3
+0,3
AKG  Energi 2800 kkal dan protein 55 g
Kebutuhan nutrisi pria tersebut:
Energi = (58/62) x 2800 kkal = 2619,35
 dibulatkan 2619 kkal
Protein = (58/62) x 55 g = 51,5 g
Vitamin A = (58/62) x 700 RE = 654,8 RE
Cara lain
1. Teori RBW (relative body weight)
RBW = {(BB (kg) / (TB (cm) - 100)} X 100%
Ketentuan:
Kurus jika RBW < 90%

kebutuhan energy perhari = BB x 40-60 kal
Normal
= 90 – 100%

= BB x 30 kal
Gemuk
> 110% atau < 120% 
= BB x 20 kal
Obesitas ringan = 120 – 130%

= BB x 10 – 15 kal
Obesitas sedang = 130 – 140%
Obesitas berat > 140%
2. Energi BMR (Basal Metabolism Rate)
Energi BMR adalah energy minimal untuk
menjalankan proses kerja atau proses faal dalam
tubuh pada kondisi berbaring istirahat di tempat
tidur.
Rumus untuk menghitung energy BMR (energy
basal selama 24 jam):
Untuk pria  BMR = (BB) / {0,1015 x A. 0,1333} ;
A = umur dalam tahun; BB =
berat badan dalam gram
Untuk wanita  BMR = (BB) / {0,1227 x A. 0,1333}
INDEKS MASSA TUBUH (IMT)  Body Mass Index
(BMI)
IMT  digunakan untuk mengetahui status
Nutrisi/Gizi orang dewasa
IMT (BMI) = (BB dlm kg) / {Tinggi Badan
(TB dalam m2)}
Kategori IMT
IMT (BMI) Kategori
<17,00
Kurus sekali
17,0 – 18,4
Kurus
18,5 – 25,0
Normal
25,1 – 27,0
Gemuk
>27,0
Gemuk sekali
NUTRACEUTICS
(NUTRACEUTICALS)
The term of nutraceutical was first used by Stephen
DeFelice in 1991.
Definition of Nutraceuticals:
Any substance that may be considered a food or a
part of a food and provides medical or health
benefits, including the prevention and treatment of
disease
According to Mueller and Nestle (1995),
“NUTRACEUTICALS” include:
 Conventional Foods (labeling regulated under
NLEA, Nutrition Labeling & Education Act, of
1990)
 Conventional foods
 Functional foods
 Phytochemicals
 Foods for Special Dietary Uses (FSDU) (labeling
regulated under NLEA, Nutrition Labeling &
Education Act, of 1990)
 Hypoallergenic foods
 Weight reduction foods
 Diabetics’ foods
 Reduced sodium foods
 Infant formulas
 Dietary Supplements (Labeling Regulated Under
DSHEA, Dietary Supplement Health and
Education Act of 1994)
 Essential nutrients
 Vitamins
 Minerals
 Amino acids
 Herbal preparations
 Glandular extracts
 Medical Foods (Exempt from most NLEA and
DSHEA Labeling Requirements)
 Fall under narrower scope than FSDU
 Primarily includes products for those with
inborn errors of metabolism
Supplements:
Supplements could be considered additives because
they become part of the diet even when they are not in
a food product. A food additive is any substance that
becomes part of a food product.
Broad purposes of food additives include:
1. maintaining or improving nutritional value such as
the addition of vitamins and minerals to a food
products (addition of calcium to juices and other
foods)
2. to maintain freshness in the food (addition of
antioxidants to foods processed with fat and of
preservatives help to prevent spoilage)
3. to help in the processing and preparation of foods
such as emulsifiers are added to peanut butter and
mayonnaise to keep the product smooth
4. to make food more appealing (addition of coloring
agents, synthetic flavors, and sweeteners)
Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplement Health and
Education Act (DSHEA), 1994
‘Any product (other than tobacco) intended to
supplement the diet that contains one or more of the
following ingredients: a vitamin, mineral, herb or other
botanical, an amino acid; a concentrate, metabolite,
constituent, extract or combination of any of these
ingredients’
‘A supplement must be in “dosage forms such as
capsules, tablets, liquids, powders, or soft gels and
may not be represented as a conventional food or as a
sole item of a meal or of the diet”
In addition, dietary supplements must be labeled as
supplements.
Dietary supplements are permitted to carry disease
claims for the following:
 Folic acid and decreased risk of neural defects
 Calcium and a lower risk of osteoporosis
 Psyllium seed husk and heart disease
 Soy protein and heart disease
 Omega-3 fatty acids and heart disease
 B vitamins (folic acid, B6, and B12) and heart
disease
The antioxidants, vitamin A, C, and E, are among the
most commonly known nutrients which, in general,
may be useful in the prevention of cancer and
cerebrovascular disease.
The combination of vitamin E, C, and beta-carotene
has been useful in reducing LDL oxidation and
subsequent atherosclerosis.
Jialal and Fuller (1995, Effect of Vitamin E, Vitamin C
and beta-carotene on LDL oxidation and
atherosclerosis, Can. J. Cardiol., 11, 97G-103G)
speculated that these substances work
synergistically to prevent oxidation of LDL in the
following manner:
1. Vitamin C scavenges aqueous radicals and
regenerates alpha-tocopherol from the
tocopheroxyl radical species;
2. Vitamin E, in the form of alpha-tocopherol
protects polyunsaturated fatty acids within the
LDL particle, reduces platelet adhesion and
inhibits smooth muscle cell proliferation and
protein kinase C activity; and
3. Beta-carotene provides reserve antioxidant
activity, especially in the arterial wall where
low partial pressures of oxygen are found.
Supplementation with vitamin C may be beneficial in
the management of asthma patients, and high
dietary intake of vitamin E may prevent Parkinson’s
disease
Functional Foods
Definition of functional foods established by the
University of Illinois Functional Foods for Health
Program is:
“refers to foods that, by virtue of physiologically
active components, provide benefits beyond
basic nutrition and may prevent disease or
promote health”
Foods for Special Dietary Uses (FSDU) and Medical
Foods
FSDU and medical foods are broadly defined as enteral
products designed to meet the specific dietary needs
of certain subsets of population.
Common Nutrients and Their
Associated Health Benefits
Nutrient
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin A
Vitamin D (calciferol)
Vitamin E (tocopherol)
Vitamin K
Health Benefit
Antioxidant, essential for
growth and development;
maintains healthy vision,
skin, and mucous
membranes; may aid in the
prevention and treatment of
certain cancers and in the
treatment of certain skin
disorders (note: the body
converts beta carotene into
vitamin A)
Essential for formation of
bones and teeth; helps the
body absorb and use calcium
Antioxidant; helps form
blood cells, muscles, and
lung and nerve tissue; boosts
the immune system
Essential for blood clotting
Water-Soluble Vitamins
Ascorbic acid (vitamin
Antioxidant; necessary for
C)
Thiamine (vitamin B1)
Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
healthy bones, teeth, and
skin; helps in wound healing;
may prevent common cold
and attenuate its symptoms
should a cold occur
Helps convert food into
energy; essential in
neurologic function
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6)
Helps in energy production
and other chemical
processes in the body; helps
maintain healthy eyes, skin,
and nerve function
Cyanocobalamin
(vitamin B12)
Helps convert food into
energy; helps maintain
proper brain function
Niacin (vitamin B3)
Helps produce essentials
proteins; helps convert
protein into energy
Folic acid
(pteroylglutamic acid,
folacin)
Panthothenic acid
Helps produce the genetic
material of cells; helps with
formation of red blood cells
and maintenance of central
nervous system; helps make
amino acids; involved in
metabolism of fat, protein,
and carbohydrates
Necessary to produce the
genetic materials of cells;
essential in first 3 months of
pregnancy for preventing
birth defects; helps in red
blood cell formation; protects
against heart disease
Aids in synthesis of
cholesterol, steroids, and
fatty acids; crucial for
intraneuronal synthesis of
acetylcholine
Minerals
Calcium
Iron
Magnesium
Essential for building bones
and teeth and maintaining
bone strength; important in
muscle function
Helps in energy production;
helps to carry oxygen in the
bloodstream and to transfer
oxygen to muscles
Phosphorus
Essential for healthy nerve
and muscle function and
bone formation; may help
prevent premenstrual
syndrome (PMS)
Essential for building strong
bones and teeth; helps in
formation of genetic material;
helps in energy production
and storage
Trace Elements
Chromium
Works with insulin to convert
carbohydrates and fat into
energy
Cobalt
Copper
Fluorine
Iodine
Manganese
Molybdenum
Nickel
Essential component of
vitamin B12, but ingested
cobalt is metabolized in vivo
to form the B12 coenzymes
Essential for making
hemoglobin and collagen;
essential for healthy
functioning of the heart;
helps in energy production;
helps in absorption of iron
from digestive tract
Presumably makes enamel
resistant to erosive action of
acids produced by bacteria in
the oral cavity
Selenium
Essential for proper
functioning of the thyroid
Silicone
Required for glucose
utilization, synthesis of the
mucopolysaccharides of
cartilage, biosynthesis of
steroids
Tin
Vanadium
May function as an enzyme
cofactor
Zinc
Involved in specific
metalloenzymes
Antioxidant; essential for
healthy functioning of the
heart muscle
Functions in the development
and maintenance of
connective tissue
May be involved in growth
and reproductive functions
May be involved in functions
related to growth and
reproduction
Essential for cell
reproduction, normal growth
and development in children,
wound healing, and
production of sperm and the
male hormone testosterone
Vitamin-like Compounds
Biotin (vitamin H)
Member of B-complex group
vitamins; required for various
metabolic functions
L-Carnitine
Choline
Oxidation of fatty acids,
promotion of certain organic
acid excretions, and
enhancement of the rate of
oxidative phosphorylation
Essential fatty acids
(vitamin F)
Inositol
Laetrile (amygdalin,
vitamin B17)
Pangamic acid (vitamin
B15)
Taurine
(aminoethanesulfonate)
Lipotropic agents; they have
been used to treat fatty liver
and disturbed fat metabolism
Involved in proper
development of various
membranes and the
synthesis of prostaglandins,
leukotrienes, and various
hydroxyl fatty acids
Necessary for amino acid
transport and movement of
potassium and sodium;
Lipotropic agent
No vitamin activity; no
nutritional or therapeutic
value; no approved medical
use
No nutritional or therapeutic
value
Aids in retinal photoreceptor
activity, bile acid
conjugation, white blood cell
antioxidant activity, CNS
neuromodulation, platelet
aggregation, cardiac
contractility, sperm motility,
growth, and insulin activity
Makanan yang banyak
mengandung vitamin dan mineral
Vitamin dan
mineral
Vitamin A (Retinol)
 Vitamin B1
(Thiamin)
Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin)
 Vitamin B3
(Niasin)
Vitamin B5
Makanan
dengan kandungan
vitamin dan
mineral
Apel, pir, pisang, bit, berry,
brokoli, kubis, wortel,
kacang mete, pepaya,
paprika/cabai, bayam, biji
bunga matahari, tomat,
dan selada air.
 Bubur gandum,
kacang tanah, kedelai,
roti gandum.
Almond, brokoli, keju, dan
susu.
 Jamur, ikan
berminyak, kacang
 Vitamin B6
(Piridoksin)
Vitamin B12
o Vitamin C (Asam
askorbat)
tanah, kedelai, dan roti
gandum utuh.
Brokoli
 Pisang, bit, hazelnut,
dan kedelai.
Keju, telur, dan ektrak
ragi.
o Apel, pir, pisang, bit,
berry, brokoli, kubis,
wortel, kelapa, bawang
putih, madu, sayur
hijau, mangga,
papaya, cabai, bayam,
tomat, dan selada air.
Vitamin dan
mineral
Makanan dengan
kandungan vitamin dan
mineral
Vitamin D
Keju, kuning telur, susu,
ikan berminyak, dan biji
bunga matahari.
 Vitamin E
 Berry, kubis, mangga,
kacang-kacangan,
minyak zaitun, pepeya,
Vitamin K
 Asam folat
Kalsium
 Besi (Ferum)
Mangan
 Magnesium
Potasium
 Fosfor
Selenium
 Silikon
Seng
cabai, biji wijen, biji
bunga matahari,
bayam, tomat, dan
selada air.
Bayam dan biji bunga
matahari.
 Apel, pir, buncis,
lentil, bit, brokoli,
kelapa, biji wijen,
bayam, dan selada air.
Kacang almond, apel, pir,
buncis, lentil, bit, berry,
kubis, wortel, kacang mete,
gandum, labu, biji wijen,
rumput laut/ tumbuhan
laut, kedelai/tahu, bayam,
biji bunga matahari, selada
air, dan yogurt.
 Buncis, lentil, bit,
berry, brokoli,
mangga, pepaya, labu,
biji wijen, rumput
laut/tumbuhan laut,
kedelai, biji bunga
matahari, dan selada
air.
Buncis, lentil, bit, dan
bayam.
 Tembaga
Yodium
 Apel, pir, buncis,
lentil, bit, berry, kubis,
cabai, labu, biji wijen,
rumput laut, kedelai,
dan bayam.
Apel, pir, buncis, lentil, bit,
berry, kedelai, bayam, dan
pisang.
 Apel, pir, bit, gandum,
kedelai,dan tahu.
Buncis, lentil, ikan
berminyak, biji wijen,
kedelai, dan walnut.
 Rumput laut dan
tumbuhan laut.
Kacang almond, berry,
brokoli, mangga, papaya,
labu, biji wijen, rumput
laut, biji bunga matahari,
kedelai/tahu, tomat, dan
selada air.
 Rumput laut dan
tumbuhan laut.
Pir, rumput laut,
tumbuhan laut, ikan laut
dan selada air.
Makanan Untuk
Kesehatan
Jika menderita penyakit atau mengalami
keluhan dan kondisi yang disebut di bawah
ini, dianjurkan untuk memakan lebih banyak
makanan seperti yang disebutkan pula.
Keluhan
Makanan
yang dianjurkan
Kecemasan dan depresi Pisang, brokoli, dan
gandum
 Kanker
(membantu
 Pisang, buncis, lentil,
melindungi dari
brokoli, kubis,
resiko kanker)
gandum, ikan
berminyak, minyak
zaitun, pepaya,
Kolesterol (mengurangi
mangga,
kolesterol)
paprika/cabai, bijibijian, kedelai/tahu,
bayam, ubi, tomat,
 Kekurangan sel
dan selada air.
darah merah
(masalah
Apel, pisang, buncis,
peredaran darah) lentil, bawang putih,
kacang-kacangan,
gandum, ikan berminyak,
Detoksifikasi
minyak zaitun,
(membentu mencegah kedelai/tahu, selada air,
timbunan racun)
dan yogurt.
 Masalah
pencernakan
 Bit, blackberry,
blackcurrant,
blueberry,
redcurrant, kubis,
wortel, bawang
 Kekurangan
energi
Penglihatan
 Menurunkan
resiko penyakit
jantung dan
membantu
menurunkan
tekanan darah
Penurunan sistem
kekebalan tubuh
 Ginjal, hati,
kandung kencing,
dan infeksi saluran
kencing
Masalah saat
menstruasi (PMS)
putih, madu, kacangkacangan, gandum,
pepaya, mangga,
bayam, ubi, tomat,
dan selada air.
Apel, pir, buncis, lentil,
brokoli, wortel, bayam,
ubi, dan selada air.
 Apel, pir, pisang,
buncis, lentil,
brokoli, kubis,
wortel, bawang
putih, madu,
gandum, minyak
zaitun, pepaya,
raspberry, bijibijian, kedelai/tahu,
bayam, ubi, tomat,
selada air, dan
yogurt.
 Apel, pir, pisang,
blackberry, brokoli,
madu, kacangkacangan, pepaya,
mangga,
paprika/cabai,
bayam, ubi,
singkong, dan selada
air.
Wortel, bayam, dan biji
bunga matahari.
 Pisang, brokoli,
wortel, bawang
putih, kacangkacangan, ikan
berminyak, minyak
zaitun,
paprika/cabai,
rumput laut,
tumbuhan laut,
biji-bijian,
kedelai/tahu,
bayam, ubi, tomat,
dan selada air.
Apel, pir, bit, brokoli,
kubis, wortel, bawang
putih, madu, ikan
berminyak, pepaya,
mangga, paprika/cabai,
rumput laut/tumbuhan
laut, biji-bijian, bayam,
ubi, tomat, dan selada air.
 Buncis, lentil, bit,
brokoli, kubis,
wortel, kacang
panjang, bawang
putih, madu, ubi,
tomat, selada air,
yogurt.
Pisang, buncis, lentil, bit,
wortel, kedelai/tahu,
singkong, kacangkacangan, gandum, dan
ikan berminyak.
Keluhan
Makanan yang
dianjurkan
 Sistem syaraf
 Pisang, brokoli, kubis,
kacang-kacangan,
gandum, rumput
laut/tumbuhan laut,
biji-bijian, bayam, ubi,
dan selada air.
Masalah pada
prostat
 Masalah
saluran nafas
atau batuk &
pilek
Biji labu dan tomat.
 Apel, brokoli, kubis,
wortel, bawang putih,
madu, dan minyak
Encok & rematik
 Kondisi pada
kulit
Masalah tidur
zaitun.
Apel, buncis, lentil, madu,
kacang-kacangan, ikan
berminyak, biji-bijian, dan
stroberi.
 Apel, pir, brokoli,
kubis, wortel, kacangkacangan, ikan
berminya, minyak
zaitun, pepaya,
mangga, stroberi, ubi,
dan selada air.
 Gigi, tulang, dan
jaringan ikat
yang kuat
(membantu
membuat gigi
dan tulang yang Pisang
kuat)
 Wortel, gandum, ikan
Masalah tiroid
berminyak, pepaya,
mangga, kedelai/tahu,
bayam, ubi, dan selada
air.
Kubis, gandum, pir, rumput
laut/tumbuhan laut, dan
selada air.
PISANG
Manfaat:
1. sumber energi
2. sumber serat yang baik
(memperlancar BAB)
3. ada efek penenang
4. meningkatkan daya tahan tubuh
Kandungan kalori pisang adalah setiap
100 g pisang mengandung kalori sekitar
79 kalori. Kandungan ini sebanding
dengan 46 buah apel atau 41 buah pir.
Pisang mempunyai kandungan serat
yang tinggisehingga pisang dapat
digunakan untuk memperlancar buang
air besar (BAB).
Pisang juga mengandung asam amino
tryptophan, yaitu asam amino yang
mempunyai efek penenang sehingga
pisang sangat baik dikonsumsi oleh orang
yang mengalami kesulitan tidur.
Tryptophan juga dapat memperbaiki
suasana hati dan mengurangi gejala
depresi, kecemasan, dan sindrom
pramenstruasi (PMS = premenstruation
syndrome).
Pisang mengandung pula mineral,
seperti kalium. Kalium ini dalam tubuh
dapat membantu pertumbuhan sel,
mengendalikan tekanan darah,
memperlancar fungsi sistem syaraf, dan
memperlancar pengaturan cairan tubuh
dan keseimbangan asam – alkali.
Kandungan antioksidan dari pisang
juga tinggi, khususnya beta-karoten.
Beta-karoten dalam tubuh akan berubah
menjadi vitamin A. Vitamin C juga
terkandung dalam pisang. Vitamin A dan
C dapat meningkatkan sistem kekebalan
tubuh dan melawan penyebab kanker
(radikal bebas).
Selain itu, pisang juga mengandung
vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 sering pula
disebut sebagai vitamin antistres.
Vitamin B6 ini dapat melindungi tubuh
dari penyakit jantung, mengatur syaraf,
dan membantu mengurangi masalah haid
dan menopause.
Pisang sebagai makanan yang lembut
Pisang sebagai makanan yang
bermanfaat dan mudah dicerna sehingga
pisang menjadi makanan pertama yang
ideal bagi bayi. Meskipun demikian,
seyogyanya tidak memberikan pisang
pada bayi di bawah usia 6 bulan karena
dapat terjadi kondisi tidak toleran
terhadap makanan.
Karena rasanya yang manis, pisang
dapat menjadi alternatif yang sehat
untuk menggantikan permen, kue, atau
biskuit, dan membuat hampir semua
makanan menjadi manis.
Memilih dan menyimpan pisang
Pilihlah pisang yang tidak lembek
dengan warna kuning dengan sedikit
bintik cokelat. Pisang dapat
dikombinasikan dengan hampir semua
buah. Pisang dapat menjadi camilan
yang bermanfaat baik selama bepergian
maupun sewaktu di rumah.
Pisang dapat dimasak menjadi
berbagai puding buah dan kue. Untuk
dimasak, semakin matang pisang,
semakin baik.
Simpanlah pisang ditempat yang sejuk
dan jauhkan dari sinar matahari, tetapi
jangan di masukkan dalam almari es.
MANGGA DAN
PEPAYA
Manfaat:
 Merupakan antioksidan kuat
 Meningkatkan fungsi kekebalan tubuh
 Merupakan antikanker
 Memperbaiki kondisi kulit dan kuku
 Memperlancar system pencernaan
 Meningkatkan energy
Mangga dan papaya banyak mengandung
beta-karoten; senyawa ini banyak pula dikandung
dalam semua jenis jeruk dan buah serta sayuran
berwarna oranye. Semakin intens warna suatu
buah, semakin tinggi kandungan beta-karotennya.
Mangga dan papaya mengandung banyak
vitamin C
Mangga mengandung pula vitamin E
Mangga dan papaya mengandung zat besi
dan seng
Banyaknya antioksidan dalam buah mangga
dan papaya maka kedua buah itu dapat
meningkatkan daya tahan tubuh sehingga
melindungi tubuh dari berbagai penyakit dari
infeksi sampai kanker
Mangga dan papaya mempunyai efek
detoksifikasi yang ditunjukkan secara nyata
dengan membaiknya tekstur kulit, berkurangnya
kerutan, dan meningkatkan kecerahan kulit serta
dapat memperkuat kuku
Mangga dan papaya dapat memberi energy
Mangga dan papaya membantu
memperlancar pencernaan. Pepaya mempunyai
enzim papain yang dapat mencerna protein
KEDELAI DAN MAKANAN
OLAHANNYA
MANFAAT:
 Menurunkan tekanan darah tinggi
 Menurunkan kadar kolesterol
 Mengurangi gejala PMS dan menopause
 Melindungi tubuh dari resiko kanker yang
berkaitan dengan hormone
 Sumber protein nabati
 Menurunkan resiko penyakit jantung
(kardiovaskuler)
 Mengatur kadar gula darah
 Mencegah sembelit
Kedelai merupakan jenis kacang yang paling bergizi
karena mengandung asam lemak esensial Omega-3
(dari lesitin), asam amino, isoflavon (phytoestrogen),
protein, mineral, dan vitamin. Kedelai dapat digunakan
dalam masakan atau makanan yang berupa susu,
tepung, tempe, tahu, dll.
FLAVONOIDS
At one time a mixture of flavonoids was shown to
decrease capillary permeability and fragility in human
beings and was named vitamin P, but later, 1950, when
it was found that they are not dietary essentials, the
name was dropped.
More recently there has been epidemiological evidence
from observations in population groups with a high
intake of fruits and vegetables that flavonoids may
have a role in protection against some forms of cancer.
Some are antioxidants and may help to prevent
atherosclerosis; others have weak estrogen activity
(phytoestrogens) and have been associated with lower
incidence of breast, uterus and prostate cancer.
Soya (soy)
A bean (Glycine max) is important as a source of both
oil and protein. The protein is of higher biological
value than many other vegetable proteins, and is of
great value for animal and human food. When raw it
contains a trypsin inhibitor, which is destroyed by
heat. Native of China, where it has been cultivated for
5000 years; grows 60–100 cm high with 2–3 beans per
pod.
Composition/100 g:
(edible portion 53%) water 67.5 g, 615 kJ (147 kcal),
protein 12.9 g, fat 6.8 g (of which 15% saturated, 25%
mono-unsaturated, 60% polyunsaturated),
carbohydrate 11.1 g, fibre 4.2g, ash 1.7g, Ca 197mg, Fe
3.5mg, Mg 65mg, P 194mg, K 620mg, Na 15mg, Zn 1mg,
Cu 0.1mg, Mn 0.5mg, Se 1.5μg, vitamin B1 0.44mg, B2
0.17mg, niacin 1.6mg, B6 0.06mg, folate 165μg,
pantothenate 0.1mg, C 29mg.
Soybean oil is 15% saturated, 24% mono-unsaturated,
61% polyunsaturated, contains 9.2mg vitamin E,
198mg vitamin K/100g.
Soya flour Dehulled, ground soya bean.
The unheated material is a rich source of amylase and
proteinase and is useful as a baking aid.
Composition/100 g:
Water 7.3 g, 1381kJ (330kcal), protein 47 g, fat 1.2 g (of
which 13% saturated, 25% mono-unsaturated, 63%
polyunsaturated), carbohydrate 38.4 g (20 g sugars),
fibre 17.5 g, ash 6.2 g, Ca 241mg, Fe 9.2mg, Mg 290mg,
P 674mg, K 2384mg, Na 20mg, Zn 2.5mg, Cu 4.1mg, Mn
3mg, Se 1.7μg, vitamin A 2μg RE (24μg carotenoids), E
0.2mg, K 4.1mg, B10.7mg, B2 0.25mg, niacin 2.6mg, B6
0.57mg, folate 305μg, pantothenate 2mg.
Soy sauce
A condiment prepared from fermented soya bean,
commonly used in China and Japan. Traditionally the
bean, often mixed with wheat, is fermented with
Aspergillus oryzae over a period of 1–3 years. The
modern process is carried out at a high temperature or
in an autoclave for a short time.
Tofu
Originally Japanese; soybean curd precipitated from
the aqueous extract of the soya bean.
Composition/100 g:
Water 85 g, 293 kJ (70 kcal), protein 8.2 g, fat 4.2 g (of
which 23% saturated, 31% mono-unsaturated, 46%
polyunsaturated), carbohydrate 1.7 g (0.6 g sugars),
fibre 0.9 g, ash 1 g, Ca 201mg, Fe 1.6mg, Mg 37mg, P
121mg, K 148mg, Na 12mg, Zn 0.8mg, Cu 0.2mg, Mn
0.6mg, Se 9.9μg, vitamin B1 0.06mg, B2 0.06mg, niacin
0.1mg, B6 0.07mg, folate 19μg, pantothenate 0.1mg.
An 80 g serving is a source of Cu, P, a good source of
Ca, Mn.
Foods that have been shown to have low glycaemic
indices (55 or less) compared to glucose (100):
Soya beans (18) Pearl barley (28) Bananas (53) Lentils
(29) All pastas (40-45) Apples (36)
Dried peas (31) Rolled oats (55) Apple juice (36)
Canned baked beans (40) Oat bran (50) Grapefruit (25)
Frozen peas (boiled) (48) All Bran (40) Oranges (43)
Other dried legumes, (around 30) Pumpernickel (rye)
bread (41) Orange juice (57) Plums (24)
Peaches (28) Milk (full cream or low fat) and yoghurt
(25-35)
The glycaemic index of glucose is 100, of fructose 20,
of sucrose (half way between) 60, of lactose 45.
High fat foods may also give a low glycaemic index,
because of delayed gastric emptying, but are not
recommended.
Lecithin - An Amazing Youth Element
Lecithin is the most abundant of the phospholipids. It
is a fatty food substance, which serves as a structural
material for every cell in the body. It is an essential
constituent of the human brain and nervous system. It
forms 30 per cent of the dry weight of the brain and 17
per cent of the nervous system.
Lecithin is also an important component of the
endocrine glands and the muscles of the heart and
kidneys. It makes up 73 per cent of the total liver fat.
Nervous, mental or glandular over-activity can
consume lecithin faster than its replacement. This may
render a person irritable and exhausted. It is, therefore,
of utmost importance to add lecithin to the diet, if the
body’s own supply decreases as in old age or working
under stress.
Rich Sources
Lecithin is derived from the Greek Word, likithos,
meaning egg yolk. Egg yolk is a rich source of lecithin,
and also a rich source of cholesterol. This combination
makes it possible for the lecithin to emulsify the
cholesterol. Vegetable oils, whole grain cereals,
soybeans, liver and milk are other rich sources of
lecithin. The cells of the body are also capable of
synthesizing it as needed, if several of the B vitamins
are present. Since these B vitamins are generally
removed when grains are refined, people who eat
exclusively white flour products are lacking them.
Benefits
The action of lecithin on the heart is the most
important of all its proved benefits. It achieved its
popularity initially in this area. Cholesterol is a fatty
substance that tends to collect in the walls of the
arteries and veins, thus narrowing them. This may
eventually lead to a fatal blood clot.
Scientific studies have shown that lecithin has the
ability to break up cholesterol into small particles
which can be easily handled by the system. With
sufficient intake of lecithin, cholesterol cannot build up
against the walls of the arteries and veins.
Like cholesterol, lecithin is continuously produced in
the liver, passes into the intestine with bile and is
absorbed in the blood. It helps in the transportation of
fats. It also helps the cells to remove fats and
cholesterol from the blood and to utilise them. It
increases the production of bile acids made from
cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount in the blood.
It will thus be seen that cholesterol can cause trouble
only if lecithin is lacking in the system.
All atherosclerosis or changes in the arterial walls are
characterized by an increased of the blood cholesterol
and a decrease in lecithin. It has been shown that
experimental heart disease, produced by feeding
cholesterol, could be prevented merely by giving a
small quantity of lecithin.
Atherosclerosis has been produced in various species
of animals by increasing the blood cholesterol or
decreasing the lecithin.
In normal health, when a diet high in fat is taken, there
is tremendous increase in the production of lecithin.
This helps in changing the fat in the blood from large
particles to smaller and smaller ones. In case of
atherosclerosis, however, the lecithin in the blood
remains very low regardless of the quantity of fat
entering the blood. The result is that, the fat particles
remain too large to be able to pass through the arterial
walls. A more serious situation can develop if there is
lack of lecithin in cells also.
Besides reducing the cholesterol level in the blood,
there is mounting scientific evidence to suggest
several other benefits from lecithin. It has been
suggested that its intake in sufficient amounts can
help rebuild those cells and organs which need it.
Lecithin helps to maintain their health once they are
repaired. It may mean that a deficiency of lecithin in
the diet may be one of the causes of ageing and that
its use may be beneficial in retarding the ageing
process.
Edward R. Hewith in his book, The Years Between 75
and 90 says, "with older people the fats remain high in
the blood for from five to seven hours and in some
cases as long as 20 hours, thus giving the fats more
time to become located in the tissues. If lecithin is
given to older people before a fatty meal, it has been
found that the fats in the blood return to normal in a
short time, in the same way they do in younger
people.”
In some cases, the cosmetic effect of lecithin does as
much for the mental outlook of persons as it does for
their physical well-being. It has been found to eliminate
the yellow or yellow- brown plaques on the skin or
around the eyes caused by fatty deposits. It is a
natural tranquillizer which is beneficial in nervous
exhaustion. It can produce great alertness in elderly
people.
Some studies have indicated that lecithin increases the
gamma globulin in the blood. This helps fight infection.
It provides an increased immunity against pneumonia.
It has also been found to lower blood pressure in some
people. In combination with vitamin E, it has proved
helpful in lowering the requirements of insulin in
diabetics. It has also proved valuable in the treatment
of certain skin ailments, including acne, eczema and
psoriasis.
Lecithin has been suggested as a sexual aid. It was
used in Germany 30 years ago as a restorative of
sexual powers, for glandular exhaustion and nervous
and mental disorders.
Seminal fluid is rich in lecithin. Because of its loss
from the body, its need for men is regarded especially
great. Its use is also considered valuable in minimizing
pre-menstrual and menopausal tension.
Dr. N.A. Ferri, an eminent physician remarks - "Lecithin
has a versatile function in life. It is an extremely
important factor in the digestion and oxidation of fats,
thus creating more muscle and glandular activity,
resulting in greater body exertion and less fat
accumulations. Lecithin is essential not only for tissue
integrity of the nervous and glandular system in all
living cells, but has been regarded as also the most
effective generator and regenerator of great physical,
mental and glandular activity. Shattered nerves,
depleted brain power, waning activity of vital glands,
find in lecithin, especially in the cellular structure of
the nervous system and endocrine glands a source of
dynamic energy."
The best way to increase lecithin is to eat the same
amount of fat as usual, but reduce animal fat except
that from fish. Oil may be used for cooking, seasoning
and salad dressing. All hydrogenated fats such as
margarines, cooking fats, hydrogenated peanut butter
and processed cheese should be avoided as also
foods prepared with them.
HERBAL PRODUCTS
Common Herbal and Phytochemical P
Compound
Digestive System Disorders
 Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)
 Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.,
Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.)
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.)
 Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.)
Plantago seed, Psyllium seed
(Plantago arenaria Waldst.,
Plantago arenaria Kit., Plantago
ovate)
 Senna (Cassia acutifolia Del.,
Cassia angustifolia Vahl., Senna
alexandrina Mill.)
Kidney, Urinary Tract, and Prostate
Disorders
Beaberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
L., Spreng (Ericacaeae)
 Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon
Ait.)
Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea L.,
Solidago serotina Ait., Solidago
Canadensis L.)
 Saw palmento (Serenoa repens
Reported Activity/U
 Oral: anti-inflammatory, spas
Topical: wound-healing, an@
Carminative, antiemetic, cho
treatment of dizziness
 Expectorant, secretolytic; tre
Prophylaxis and treatment of
 Leaf: carminative and choler
Oil: reduces symptoms of irr
Cathartic
 Cathartic
Antibacterial for UTI, diuretic
 Bacteriostatic for treatment o
Prophylaxis and treatment of
stones
 Antiandronergic, anti-inflamm
[Batr.])
Performance and endurance enhancers
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea L.
Moench., Echinacea angustifolia
DC, Echinacea pallida Nutt. Nutt.)
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus
senticosus Rupr. & Maxim. )
Ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A.Meyer,
Panax quinquefolius L.)
Nervous system Disorders
 Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium
L.)
 St. John’s wort (Hypericum
perforatum L.)
 Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.)
 Willow bark (Salix alba L., Salix
fragilis L., Salix daphnoides Villars,
Salix pentandra L.)
Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders
Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa
L. Nutt.)
Black currant seed oil (Ribes
nigrum L.)
Borage seed oil (Borago officinalis
L.)
Chaste tree berry (Vitex agnuscastus L.)
Evening primrose oil (Oenothera
benign prostatic hyperplasia
Oral: immunostimulant; treat
symptoms
Topical: treatment of hard-to
burns, psoriasis, herpes sim
Adaptogen (an agent facilitat
kinds of stress)
Adaptogen
 Treatment of headaches, fev
prophylactic to reduce frequ
of migraine headaches
 Anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory
 Spasmolytic, mild sedative, s
 Anti-inflammatory, analgesic
treatment of rheumatic and a
headache, and gout
Emmenagogue (an agent tha
treatment of premenstrual di
Dietary supplementation of li
atopic eczema
Dietary supplementation of li
atopic eczema
Treatment of menstrual disor
Dietary supplementation of li
atopic eczema
biennis L.)
Respiratory tract Disorders
 Ephedra
 Horehound
 Slippery elm
Cardiovascular system Disorders
 Garlic (Allium sativum L.)
 Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.)
 Grape seed (Vitis vinifera L.)
 Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigtata
[Poir] DC.)
 Pine bark (Pinus maritime Lam.),
pignogenol
Disorders of the skin, mucous
membranes, and gingival
Aloe vera gel (Aloe vera L. N.L.
Burm.)
Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis
L.)
Mellisa (Melissa officinalis L.),
lemon balm
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia
[Maiden & Betchej Cheel)
 Bronchodilator, vasoconstric
edema, appetite suppressant
ephedra-containing products
 Expectorant, antitussive, cho
ineffective as a nonprescript
expectorant)
 Mucilaginous demulcent, em
to sooth irritated mucous me
the digestive tract (FDA has
soothing demulcent for sore

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana
L., Hamamelis vernalis Sarg.)
DRUGS & THE EFFECT ON
NUTRITION
ANTACIDS
Antacids can cause nutritional
deficiencies because people misuse these
drugs. Antacids are frequently taken in
excess to curb problems produced by the
misuse of other dietary substances, such
as alcohol or coffee, or by excessive
eating.
Antacids bind to dietary phosphates in
the intestines and increase their excretion.
This upset the delicate ratio of calcium to
phosphorous that is necessary for normal
calcium absorption and deposition into
bone. Bone disorders might result.
This risk for bone disorders is further
increased in the elderly who cannot
absorb calcium well and who often
consume inadequate amounts of calciumrich foods in the diet.
Antacids neutralize excess acid in the GIT
and they might interfere with the
absorption of iron and the B vitamins –
folic acid and B12.
The functions of folic acid and vitamin
B12 are related. A deficiency of either
vitamin results in anemia, which is a
reduction in red blood cells, and a
reduced ability to build and repair
tissues.
Cimetidine (Tagamet), a drug that
inhibits the secretion of stomach acid and
is used in the treatment of ulcers, also
reduces vitamin B12 absorption.
The therapeutic effects of antacids
depend on when they are taken.
Aluminum hydroxide:
 to reduce gastric acidity, it should be
taken
2 hrs before or after a meal.
 to rid the body of excess phosphates, it
is
taken with a meal.
This case, the antacid binds to dietary
phosphorous and does not allow it to
be
absorbed.
The nutritional effects of antacids
Type of antacid
Nutritional
consequences
Aluminum
hydroxide
Aluminum toxicity
Phosphate depletion
Sodium
bicarbonate
Folic acid malabsorption
Sodium overload
Magnesium
hydroxide
Magnesium overload
Phosphate depletion
ANTIBIOTICS
Some essential nutrients are produced by
bacteria in the small and large intestines
and are absorbed through the intestinal
wall.
Antibiotics disturb this normal bacterial
growth and destroy the nutrientproducing bacteria. A deficiency of
vitamin K can result.
Tetracycline is an antibiotic that can
inactivate the intestinal bacteria that
manufacture vitamin K and reduces
vitamin C stores in the body. Absorption
of calcium and iron is reduced.
Neomycin reduces the absorption of
nutrients in several ways.
1.It changes the lining of the GIT so that
it is less efficient at absorbing nutrients
and binds bile and fat-soluble vitamins
and inhibits their absorption.
2.It increases the excretion of nitrogen,
sodium, potassium, and calcium.
3.It reduces the absorption of folic acid,
iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin K.
4.It reduces the absorption of the sugars,
sucrose, and lactose.
ANTICONVULSANTS
Anticonvulsant drugs are used to control
epileptic seizures and to prevent or treat
seizures that result from neurosurgical
procedures or head injuries.
Long-term anticonvulsant therapy with
phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, or
carbamazepine might cause rickets and
osteomalacia.
Anticonvulsants inhibit the manufacture
of vitamin D. A vitamin D deficiency will
cause bone degeneration, even with
adequate calcium intake.
It is recommended that patients who take
anticonvulsant drugs also take a vitamin
D supplement that contains 400 to 800 IU
of vitamin D.
The anticonvulsant drugs are associated
with anemia.
This anemia is caused by a deficiency of
folic acid and vitamin K and is
characterized by frequent hemorrhage.
However, if large doses of folic acid are
given to counteract low blood levels, a
possible underlying deficiency of vitamin
B12 might go unnoticed.
To avoid these deficiencies, a daily
supplement of vitamin K, folic acid, and
vitamin B12 might be necessary. Since
folic acid in high doses can interfere with
the action of some anticonvulsants
(phenytoin), supplement should be taken
with caution.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS
Antidepressant drugs and tranquilizers
might alter nutrient status because they
affect food intake or nutrient excretion.
The anti-anxiety drugs such as
meprobamate, lorazepam, oxazepam,
alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, and
diazepam can cause nausea, vomiting,
dry-mouth, loss of appetite, diarrhea,
reduced salivation, and stomach
disorders.
The tricyclic compounds such as amitriptyline:
1. Alter appetite and can cause weight gain or
loss.
2. Increase urinary excretion and might increase
losses of B vitamin and vitamin C.
Diazepam and diazepoxide might alter magnesium
status and increase urinary loss of calcium.
The side effects of MAOIs include:
. Constipation,
. Nausea,
. Diarrhea,
. Abdominal pain
These conditions might reduce nutrient intake and
excretion.
DRUGS FOR ARTHRITIS
TREATMENT
D-Penicillamine is used:
1. In the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
2. In the treatment of heavy metal poisoning and
Wilson’s disease (copper toxicity).
D-Penicillamine binds other minerals that are not
toxic and can contribute to mineral deficiencies.
One of the side effects of D-penicillamine is loss of
appetite (anorexia). The loss of appetite might be
caused by a drug-induced deficiency of zinc.
The symptoms of a zinc deficiency are diminished
taste sensitivity and a reduced appetite.
ASPIRIN AND NSAIDs
Aspirin is used in the control and alleviation of
pain, headache, and the symptoms of arthritis.
Excessive use of aspirin can cause several
nutritional side effects.
Aspirin-induced GI bleeding is associated with:
1. Increased losses of iron and iron deficiency
anemia.
2. Deficiencies of folic acid, potassium, and
vitamin C.
3. Reduced absorption of vitamin B12.
ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES
Oral contraceptives affect food intake and
nutritional status in several ways.
They have been associated with:
1. increasing appetite and encouraging weight
gain,
2. impairing glucose tolerance,
3. increasing blood levels of cholesterol and
triglycerides,
4. reducing absorption of folic acid, and
5. Promoting water retention (edema).
Oral contraceptives are associated with several
nutrient deficiencies.
Some women who take oral contraceptives
exhibit:
1. High blood levels of vitamin A and copper.
2. Low blood levels of vitamin E; Vitamin C;
vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12; folic acid; zinc; and
iron.
Vitamin B6 is of particular interest because of its
role in mood and behavior. When daily intake is
increased from 2 mg to 20 to 40 mg daily, the
depression associated with oral contraceptive
drugs might be alleviated.
DRUGS TO LOWER
CHOLESTEROL
Elevated blood cholesterol levels are associated
with an increased risk for heart disease.
Some drugs bind to cholesterol and bile acids in
the intestines and prevent their re-absorption and
thus reducing the circulating blood levels of
cholesterol. Some of these drugs are
cholestyramine, clofibrate, cholestipol, and
neomycin.
The drugs to lower cholesterol bind other fatsoluble substances and might cause vitamin K
deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, and related bone
disorders.
Other symptoms of fat-soluble vitamin
deficiencies include:
1. night blindness,
2. the destruction of red blood cells (anemia), and
3. Hemorrhage.
Cholestyramine
This drug can cause:
1. steatorrhea (fatty stools);
2. mal-absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A,
D, E, and K;
3. deficiencies of iron, carotene, calcium, vitamin
B12, and folic acid and might result in bone
disorders and anemia;
4. increased urinary excretion of calcium;
5. increased blood levels of triglycerides;
6. Reduced body stores of iron when taken over a
long period of time or at high doses.
Clofibrate
This drug:
1. binds cholesterol and bile acids so that reduces
their reabsorption;
2. increases excretion of the fat-soluble vitamins;
3. Changes the taste sensation, which might
reduce a person’s desire to eat.
Colestipol
This drug may cause deficiencies of the fat-soluble
vitamins A, D, E and folic acid.
Vitamin K supplementation is required only in the
presence of poor blood clotting and prolonged
bleeding times.
The effectiveness of cholestipol is increased when
it is combined with the B vitamin nicotinic acid
(niacin).
DRUGS FOR HYPERACTIVITY
TREATMENT
Dextroamphetamine and a similar compound
methylphenidate are used to control behavioral
problems in hyperactive children. These
stimulants calm, rather than excite, hyperactive
patients.
Growth retardation has been noted in hyperactive
children who are on long-term drug therapy. This
side effect might be a result of reduced food intake
associated with drug-induced suppression of
appetite.
DRUGS FOR HYPERTENSION THERAPY
The diuretic drugs used in treatment of
hypertension and CHF include the thiazides,
furosemide, and ethacrynic acid. These drugs
increase the urinary loss of potassium and other
minerals, as well as water.
If potassium deficiency were allowed to progress,
a person might experience:
1. bone fragility,
2. paralysis,
3. sterility,
4. muscle weakness,
5. nerve disorders,
6. irregular heart beat (arrhythmias), and
7. Kidney damage.
Some diuretics, such as spironolactone, are not
associated with a deficiency of mineral.
Other drugs that deplete the body of
potassium include:
. L-Dopa
. Senna
. Gentamicin
. Amphotericin B
. Bisacodyl
. Salicylates
. Phenolphthalein
. Corticosteroids
Magnesium
Magnesium is another mineral that can be
depleted with the use of thiazides.
Magnesium functions in:
1. energy production,
2. the manufacture of fat and
protein,
3. the removal of toxic compounds
such as urea and ammonia,
4. muscle relaxation,
5. nerve transmission,
6. the prevention of tooth decay,
7. the transportation of nutrients
into the cells, and
8. Bone formation and
maintenance.
A deficiency of magnesium affects:
1. the heart,
2. the nerves, and
3. The kidneys.
Low magnesium in the body may cause:
1. arrhythmias (irregular heart
beat),
2. heart failure,
3. atherosclerosis,
4. destruction of the heart muscle,
and
5. convulsions
Drugs that affect magnesium status
Alcohol
Amphotericin B
Capreomycin
Carbenicillin
Cisplatin
Cycloserine
Digitalis glycosides
Ethacrynic acid
Furosemide
Gentamicin
Lithium
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin
Tetracyclines
Thiazides
Tobramycin
Viomycin
Mercurial diuretics:
. chlormerodrin
. meralluride
. mercaptomerin
. mercurophylline
. mersalyl
The use of furosemide and ethacrynic acid may
cause the deficiency of:
1. Calcium,
2. Iodine, and
3. Zinc.
Prolong use of diuretics may place a person at risk
for deficiencies of the water-soluble vitamins, such
as vitamin C and the B vitamins.
The antihypertensive hydrazine interferes with
vitamin B6 metabolism and causes deficiency
symptoms that include:
1. behavioral disorders,
2. sleep irregularities, and
3. convulsions
STEROIDS
Steroids are a group of drugs that are used to
increase muscle mass in athletes, and include oral
contraceptives and estrogen.
Estrogen, this drug can cause:
1. abdominal cramping,
2. loss of appetite,
3. diarrhea, and
4. nausea
These side effects can reduce food and nutrient
intake or increase nutrient losses. Salt and fluid
retention and weight gain also are possible.
TUBERCULOSIS DRUGS
INH is used in the long-term treatment of TB.
This drug can cause:
1. dry mouth,
2. loss of appetite,
3. nausea,
4. stomach distress, and
5. vomiting
The potential nutritional side effects include a
vitamin B6 deficiency. INH binds to the vitamin
and the two are excreted in the urine.
INH taken with pyrazinamide and cycloserine
may cause anemia.
The daily supplementation 50 mg of vitamin B6
might protect against a deficiency.
WEIGHT CONTROL PILLS
Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used in weight
loss.
This drug is ineffective in permanent weight loss;
the weight gain exceeds weight loss.
More than 10,000 cases of toxic effects attributed
to PPA have been reported to FDA’s Poison
Control Center and 1000 of these cases were
emergency room visits.
The side effects of PPA include:
1. increased blood pressure,
2. restlessness,
3. irritability,
4. anxiety,
5. insomnia, and
6. headaches
The side effects related to anxiety and pain can
reduce a person’s desire for food and interfere
with nutrient intake and absorption.
LAXATIVES
Laxatives impair the absorption of nutrients from
intestines.
The laxatives, such as phenolphthalein, senna, and
bisacodyl, increase the activity of intestines and
alter the intestinal lining. As a result, several
nutrients are excreted rather than absorbed.
These nutrients:
1. calcium,
2. potassium,
3. vitamin D
Mineral oil binds:
1. the fat-soluble nutrients,
2. the essential fatty acids, and
3. the fat-soluble vitamin A, D, E, and K
As little as 4 teaspoons of mineral oil used daily
can produce deficiency symptoms of the fatsoluble vitamins.
Symptoms of vitamin A deficiency include:
1. poor vision at night (night blindness);
2. reduced resistance to infection;
3. skin problems such as dermatitis;
4. abnormal bone and tooth development
Inadequate intake of vitamin D can result in bone
problems such as osteomalacia.
A deficiency of vitamin K causes hemorrhage.
A vitamin E deficiency can cause skin, blood, and
nerve problems.
DRUGS FOR CANCER
TREATMENT
Some drugs used to treat cancer cause nausea,
vomiting, sore or dry mouth and throat, bloating,
fullness, and other symptoms that cause aversions
to food and eating.
The 5-fluorouracil alters taste sensations and
affects appetite. The results of these conditions are
loss of appetite, malnutrition, tissue wastage, and
weight loss.
Other drugs can damage the lining of GIT or
cause diarrhea  reduces nutrient absorption and
increases the excretion of nutrients.
Some drugs interfere with the use of nutrients in
cells.
Methotrexate is used for the treatment of cancer
and psoriasis. The therapeutic effect of
methotrexate is altering folic acid metabolism.
Methotrexate blocks the enzyme necessary for the
conversion of dietary folic acid to its biologically
active form and cells cannot divide or grow.
A drug-induced folic acid deficiency exerts a
greater effect on these diseased cells. Red blood
cells do not divide properly and megaloblastic
anemia is common in patients taking
methotrexate.
DRUG-NUTRIENT INTERACTIONS
Drug
Alcohol
Amitriptyline
Imipramine
Lithium
Carbonate
Amphotericin
B
Use
Toxic effect on
intestinal
lining, altered
secretion of
digestive
enzymes
. Reduced
absorption of
vitamin B1, folic
acid, and
Vitamin B2;
. Increased
excretion of
Antidepressant magnesium and
zinc;
. Reduced blood
levels of vitamin
B12.
Antifungal
Antihistamines
Barbiturates
Effect on
Nutritional
Status
Nasal
congestion
. Weight gain;
. Altered blood
glucose;
. Increased
blood levels of
Biguanides
Metformin
Phenformin
Anticonvulsant magnesium;
. Increased
excretion of
calcium.
Diabetes
. Increased
urinary
excretion of
potassium and
nitrogen;
. Reduced blood
levels of
magnesium and
potassium.
Increases
appetite.
. Increased need
for folic acid
and vitamin D;
. Reduced
absorption of
vitamin B1;
. Increased
excretion of
vitamin C.
Reduced
absorption of
vitamin B12.
Drug
Use
Effect on
Nutritional
Status
Chloramphenicol Antimicrobial Increased need
for vitamin B2,
Chlorpromazine Tranquilizer B6, and B12.
Colchicine
Colocynth
Corticosteroids
AntiIncreased
inflammatory appetite and
body weight.
Cathartic
Reduces
absorption of
carotene,
sodium,
potassium,
lactose, and
vitamin B12.
Reduces
transit time
and absorption
of nutrients.
Coumarin
. Reduced
Anticoagulant absorption of
calcium and
phosphorous;
. Increased
urinary
excretion of
vitamin C,
calcium,
potassium,
zinc, and
nitrogen;
. Reduced
blood levels of
zinc;
. Increased
blood levels of
glucose,
triglycerides,
and
cholesterol;
. Increased
need for
vitamin B6,
vitamin C, folic
acid, vitamin
D.
. Impaired
bone
formation;
. Reduced
wound healing.
Antagonist to
vitamin K.
Drug
Use
Effect on Nutritional
Cycloserine
Antitubercular
. Reduced protein sy
. Reduced absorption
calcium and magnes
. Reduced blood leve
and B12.
Dextroamphetamine Appetite
suppressant
Weight loss, reduced
Indomethacin
. Reduced blood leve
. Reduced absorption
Analgesic
amino acids;
. Anemia.
Insulin
Diabetes
Increases appetite
Glutethimide
Sedativehypnotic
Increased need for v
Griseofulvin
Antifungal
Alters taste sensitivit
Hydralazine
Hypotensive
Increased excretion o
Acne
Avoid supplementati
Jalap
Cathartic
Reduces transit time
nutrients.
K-Tab
Potassium
Reduces absorption
Isotretionin
(a synthetic
derivative of
vitamin A)
Drug
Use
Effect on
Nutritional
Status
Lithium
carbonate
Tranquilizer
Increases
appetite and
body weight.
Methylphenidate Appetite
suppressant
Para-aminosalicylic acid
Weight loss
and reduced
Antitubercular growth in
children.
Penicillins
Antimicrobial
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin
Primidone
Reduced
absorption of
Anticonvulsant vit. B12, iron,
folic acid, and
fat.
Podophyllin
Cathartic
Propranolol
Sodium nitroprusside
Cardiac
Hypotensive
Reduced
blood level of
potassium.
. Impaired vit
D
metabolism;
. Increased
excretion of
vit D;
. Reduced
Sulfasalazine
Ulcerative
colitis
Thiazides
blood levels
of folic acid,
vit B6, B12;
. Anemia.
Diuretic
Viomycin
Antimicrobial
Reduces
transit time
and
absorption of
nutrients.
Reduced
glucose
tolerance.
. Increased
urinaryexcretion of
vitamin B12;
. Reduced
blood level of
vitamin B12.
Reduces
absorption of
folic acid and
reduces
intestinal
transit time.
Increased
urinary
excretion of
potassium,
magnesium,
zinc, and vit
B2.
Reduced
blood levels
of potassium
and calcium;
alkalosis.
DRUG-NUTRIENT INTERACTIONS
AND DIETARY
RECOMMENDATIONS
Drug
Effects on
Nutritional
Status
Dietary
Recommendation
s
Antacids
. Bloating,
constipation,
& nausea.
. Reduces
phosphate
. Reduces vit
A
. Loss of
appetite
. Take between
meals;
. Increase intake
of vitamin A,
iron, and folic
acid.
. Diarrhea,
nausea,
fluid loss.
Cholestyramin . Reduces
e
absorption
of
glucose.
.
Hypokalemi
Colchicine
a (loss of
potassium)
. Take on empty
stomach with
water;
. Increase water
intake.
Bisacodyl
. Increase intake
of fat-soluble
vitamins,
carotene, iron,
Belching,
B12,
bloating,
and calcium.
constipation, . High fiber diet if
flatulence,
constipated.
diarrhea,
steatorrhea. . Take with water
and food;
. Avoid alcohol;
. Diarrhea,
. Increase fluid
nausea,
intake;
vomiting. . Supplement or
. Reduces
increase dietary
absorption
intake of high risk
or
nutrients.
increases
excretion of
sodium,
potassium,
fat, carotene,
B12, folic
acid,
calcium.
Drug
Effects on
Nutritional
Status
Dietary
Recommendations
Furosemide
.
Take single dose
Constipation, early in morning.
diarrhea,
nausea
or
vomiting.
. Increased
Excretion
potassium,
calcium,
Hydralazine
magnesium,
sodium
and water.
. Dry mouth,
loss of
appetite.
. Take with food;
. Maintain ideal
weight;
. Vit B6
supplementation;
. Sodium
restriction.
. Diarrhea,
Isoniazid
constipation,
nausea;
. Reduces B6;
. Loss of
appetite;
Methotrexate . Sodium
retention.
. Stomach
distress,
nausea,
. Take on empty
stomach.
. Avoid alcohol.
. Vit B6
supplementation.
. Increase water
intake.
vomiting;
. Avoid alcohol.
. Reduced B6;
. Dry mouth;
. Loss of
appetite.
. Diarrhea, GI
bleeding,
nausea, or
vomiting.
. Reduces
folic acid.
. Poor
absorption of
B12.
. Loss of
appetite,
sore mouth
and
throat.
. Altered
taste.
Drug
Effects on
Dietary
Mineral Oil
Penicillamine
Nutritional
Status
Recommendation
s
. Flatulence,
nausea,
vomiting.
. Reduces
absorption
of vitamins
A, D, E,
and K.
. Loss of
appetite and
weight loss.
.
Hypokalemia
. Take 2 hrs
before a
meal.
. Increase fatsoluble
vitamin
intake.
. Take with
water.
. Take on empty
stomach
.
Supplementation
of B6
and trace
mineral.
. Diarrhea,
nausea,
Phenolphthalei
vomiting.
n
. Reduces
cooper,
zinc, and
iron.
. Altered
taste
Phenylbutazon
and loss of
e
appetite.
. Take on empty
stomach.
. Chew well.
Steroids
Steroids
(Anabolic)
. Reduced
absorption
of vit D,
calcium,
and other
minerals. . Take with food.
.
. Avoid alcohol.
Hypokalemia
Constipation,
diarrhea,
heartburn,
fluid
retention,
and weight
gain.
. Bloating,
indigestion,
nausea.
. Fluid and
sodium
retention.
. Reduced
absorption
. Take with food
or
low-sodium
snack.
. Sodiumrestricted diet.
. Increase
potassium.
of vit D.
.
Osteomalacia
.
Nausea,
vomiting,
fluid
retention,
edema, and
weight gain.
FOOD AFFECTS THE ACTION OF
DRUGS
Food could:
1. increase a drug’s effect,
2. decrease a drug’s effect,
3. prevent s drug usefulness,
4. increase the absorption or excretion of drug,
5. decrease the absorption or excretion of drug,
6. interfere with the drug’s metabolic effects
Vitamin A in doses of 50,000 IU in combination
with tetracycline can cause intracranial pressure
(severe headache).
Patient who is taking a MAOI such as
isocarboxazid, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine
should avoid all aged or fermented foods.
These foods include:
. pickled herring
. fermented sausages (salami and pepperoni)
. sharp or aged cheese
. yogurt
. sour cream
. beef and chicken liver
. canned figs
. bananas
. avocados
. soy sauce
. meat tenderizers
. yeast
. beer
. Chianti wine
. sherry
. other wines.
The drug reacts with these foods and might
produce high blood pressure, headaches, and
brain hemorrhage.
Excessive consumption of vitamin K-rich foods,
such as liver and dark green leafy vegetables, can
interfere with anticoagulant therapy.
THE EFFECTS OF FOOD ON
ABSORPTION AND ACTION OF
DRUGS
Food
Drug
Action
Coffee/tea
Neuroleptic
agents
Theophylline
Reduces drug
absorption
Increases drug
side effects
Citrus
Quinidine
Fiber
(bran,
Digoxin
Increases blood
levels of drug
pectin)
Food/meals Chlorothiazide
Reduces drug
absorption
Propranolol
Nitrofurantoin
Cimetidine
Increases drug
absorption.
Increases drug
absorption
Aspirin
High-fat
foods
Tetracycline
Increase drug
effectiveness
Griseofulvin
Delays drug
absorption
Highprotein
food
Levodopa,
methyldopa
Licorice
Antihypertensive
drugs
Reduces drug
absorption
Milk
Tetracycline
Meal with
milk
Reduces drug
absorption
Methotrexate
Increases drug
absorption
Reduces drug
absorption
Salty foods
Lithium
Vegetables
(dark
green)
Warfarin
Induces
hypokalemia
and sodium
retention
Reduces drug
absorption
Reduces drug
absorption
 drug
effectiveness
 drug
effectiveness
DIETARY SOURCES OF
VITAMINS AND MINERALS
Nutrient
Dietary Source
Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Dark green and orange
vegetables and fruits (i.e.,
carrots, apricots, spinach),
liver.
Vitamin E
Fortified milk, fish oils
Vitamin K
Vegetable oils, cereals, dark
green leafy vegetable
Vitamin B1
Dark green leafy vegetables
Vitamin B2
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Pork, beef, organ meat,
cereals, nuts, legumes
Milk, cheese, yogurt,
mushrooms, broccoli, avocados
Folic acid
Organ meats, peanut, meat,
poultry, fish, legumes, milk
Vitamin B12
Meat, organ meats, poultry,
fish, soy-beans, dried beans
Biotin
Panthothenic
acid
Vitamin C
Dark green vegetable, dried
beans, orange juice,
cantaloupe, green peas, sweet
potatoes
Meat, poultry, fish, clams,
oysters, milk, cheese,
fermented soybean products
Calcium
Chromium
Liver, organ meats, molasses,
milk
Copper
Meat, fish, chicken, cheese,
cereals, avocados, green peas,
dried beans, nuts, dates
Iron
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Milk, yogurt, cheese, dark
green leafy vegetables
Whole grain breads, Cereals
and meats
Whole grain breads, Cereals,
shell-fish, nuts, organ meats,
dried beans & peas, dark
green vegetables
Meat, liver, dried fruits,
legumes, dark green vegetable,
prune juice, oysters,
strawberries, watermelon,
broccoli
Magnesium
Nuts, legumes, cereals,
soybeans, seafood, dark green
leafy vegetables
Manganese
Liver, lettuce, spinach, cereals,
dried beans &peas, nuts
Potassium
Selenium
Meat, milk, fruits, potatoes,
bananas, orange juices, dried
fruits
Zinc
Meats, poultry, seafood
Oysters, milk, meat, cereals
and breads
SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH
VITAMIN AND MINERAL
DEFICIENCIES
Nutrient
Deficiency Symptom
Vitamin A
Skin disorders, poor night
vision, reduced resistance to
infection, poor bone and tooth
development
Vitamin D
Rickets or osteomalacia
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Anemia, reproductive system
damage
Vitamin B1
Hemorrhage
Fatigue, anorexia, weight loss,
Vitamin B2
GI problems, weakness,
nausea, numbness & tingling
in the hands and feet, memory
loss, reduced attention span,
irritability, confusion.
Vitamin B6
Cracks at the corners of the
mouth, inflammation of the
mouth, reddening of the eyes,
burning and itching of the
eyes, dermatitis, depression.
Folic acid
Dermatitis, diarrhea,
irritability, headache,
insomnia, memory loss.
Niacin
Vitamin B12
Vitamin C
Weakness, mental confusion,
irritability, nervousness,
insomnia, poor coordination,
anemia, dermatitis.
Anemia, irritability, weakness,
weight loss, apathy, headache,
forgetfulness, GI problems,
diarrhea.
Anemia, anorexia, GI
problems, fatigue, dizziness,
numbness and tingling,
moodiness.
Anemia, joint tenderness &
swelling, poor wound healing,
weakness, bleeding gums,
bruising.
Nutrient
Deficiency Symptom
Calcium
Osteoporosis.
Chromium
Glucose insensitivity
resembling diabetes.
Copper
Iron
Magnesium
Low white blood cell count,
poor collagen formation, bone
deterioration, anemia.
Anemia, lethargy, poor
concentration, paleness,
headaches.
Lethargy, weakness,
confusion, personality
Manganese
Potassium
changes, muscle tremors,
anorexia, nausea, lack of
coordination, GI problems,
heart disease and arrhythmia.
Selenium
No established deficiency
symptoms in humans.
Zinc
Impaired growth, bone
weakness, sterility, muscle
weakness, reduced heart rate.
Structural damage to the
heart.
Changes in hair and nails,
sterility, skin disorders,
lethargy, anemia, poor wound
healing, loss of taste and smell.
Vitamin B6 and Temperament
Drugs might affect mood and personality because
of their effect on how vitamin B6 is used in the
body.
Vitamin B6 is an essential component in the body’s
production of several neurotransmitters and
hormones. These substances regulate behavior
and numerous body processes.
For example, serotonin is a principal
neurotransmitter found in the brain. It is
produced from the amino acid tryptophan in the
presence of vitamin B6.
Serotonin regulates biological and psychological
functions including sleep, emotions, and mood.
Low levels of serotonin are associated with
depression, insomnia, and seizures. Drugs that
raise the level of serotonin can affect behavior.
The brain depends on what is eaten to regulate the
production of serotonin. The level of serotonin is
regulated by the amount of tryptophan and
vitamin B6 in the diet; chronically low intake of
either or both can result in reduced production of
serotonin and might cause mood disorders.
Drugs such as steroid hormones, oral
contraceptives, and INH interfere with vitamin B6
metabolism and suppress the synthesis of
serotonin. The mood swings and depression that
often accompany these drugs are reduced or
eliminated when vitamin B6 supplements are
taken.
On the other hand, vitamin B6 can inhibit the
effectiveness of other drug such as L-Dopa since
vitamin B6 increases the decarboxylation of LDopa in the blood.
Vitamin B6 supplementation is recommended
when the following drugs are used:
 Prednisone
 Methylprednisolone
 Oral contraceptives
 Estrogen