Chronic alcoholic patients are frequently deficient in one or more vitamins. The deficiencies commonly involve folate, vitamin B6, thiamine, and vitamin A. Although inadequate dietary intake is a major cause of the vitamin deficiency, other possible mechanisms may also be involved.
It has also been demonstrated that folic acid increases GSH levels, improving the antioxidant status and revealing a hepatoprotective effect during binge drinking.
Reports show that those who have alcoholic liver disease are prone to folate, B12, B6, and B1 deficiency. But, mixing B complex with vitamin E could prove efficient in preventing damage caused by alcoholic liver disease. Plus, it can calm the alcohol-induced oxidative stress, published the National Library of Medicine.
However, if you take supplements, it is important not to exceed recommended doses of these vitamins as high supplemental doses may lead to liver damage. Alcohol combined with high doses of these vitamins may theoretically lead to or worsen liver damage.
Some people may use orange juice or carbonated beverages as mixers for their liquor drinks. These nonalcoholic beverages are also known to aggravate acid reflux. Switching to a low-acid fruit juice like apple or carrot juice or mixing a drink with water may help reduce your GERD symptoms.
Filling up on food will help you pace your drinking and ensure that the alcohol doesn't go straight to your head.
- Bananas are full of potassium and water.
- Yogurt can ease digestion and provide protein.
- Try salmon and asparagus as a pre-drinking dinner.
- Top your toast will some healthy fats and protein.
We know that alcohol inhibits the absorption of B-vitamins (vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin B12), Bailey says, which your body needs to support your metabolism and provide energy. Fortified cereal and Greek yogurt are also easy sources of B12. You can find folate in dark leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and beans.
No interactions were found between Alcohol (contained in alcoholic beverages) and Vitamin D3. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
The tannins and caffeine can interfere with the absorption of many vitamins and minerals, especially iron. Caffeine also increases urination, which can decrease the concentration of water-soluble vitamins (B-complex and C). So, wait an hour after your morning brew to take supplements.
Here are six vitamin combinations you definitely shouldn't take together.
- Magnesium and calcium/multivitamin.
- Vitamins D, E and K.
- Fish Oil & Gingko Biloba.
- Copper and zinc.
- Iron and Green tea.
- Vitamin C and B12.
Neil Levin, a clinical nutritionist at NOW Foods, agrees that morning is best for multivitamins and any B vitamins. “Multivitamins tend to do best when taken earlier in the day, as the B vitamins in them might stimulate metabolism and brain function too much for a relaxing evening or before bed,†Levin says.
Findings of a small open study that enrolled 13 healthy males suggest that taking vitamin C before drinking may increase the rate at which alcohol is cleared from the blood.
No interactions were found between Vitamin B Complex 100 and Vitamin C. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Nutritional deficiencies include iron, folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 deficiency will also make the tongue sore and beefy-red in color. Glossitis, by causing swelling of the tongue, may also cause the tongue to appear smooth.
A lack of vitamin B12 can cause neurological problems, which affect your nervous system, such as:
- vision problems.
- memory loss.
- pins and needles (paraesthesia)
- loss of physical co-ordination (ataxia), which can affect your whole body and cause difficulty speaking or walking.
Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while you are being treated with Vitamin B12.
Once you begin treating your vitamin B12 deficiency, it can take up to six to 12 months to fully recover. It is also common to not experience any improvement during the first few months of treatment.
Vitamin B12 deficiency resulting from inadequate dietary intake is the easiest to treat. The condition can be reversed by taking oral vitamin B12 supplements and adding foods containing B12.
