If you rely on antacids for acidity, you might want to pause and think. While these medicines provide quick relief, using them for long periods can quietly affect your health in ways you may not expect. AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat recently shared an important warning for people who take antacids regularly, explaining how prolonged use could lead to nutrient deficiencies.
In one of her health education videos on Instagram, Dr. Sehrawat explains that taking antacids consistently for more than two to two and a half months can reduce the absorption of vital nutrients in the body. Even if you are careful with your diet or take supplements, long-term antacid use can interfere with calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12 absorption.
Long-term Use Of Acidity Not Recommended
Regular long-term use of antacids may lower the body’s ability to absorb important nutrients. Deficiencies in calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12 can cause various health issues, so it’s essential for people taking antacids regularly to monitor their levels.
Dr. Sehrawat recommends checking calcium, iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and magnesium levels if you are on prolonged antacid therapy.
Precautions And Advice For Antacid Users
If tests show a deficiency, consult your doctor and take supplements as prescribed. Keep an eye out for new symptoms that could indicate nutrient deficiencies and address them promptly.
Dr. Sehrawat also advises people taking iron tablets to avoid consuming them within one hour of taking antacids. For optimal absorption, antacids should be taken before meals, while iron supplements should be taken an hour after meals.
Taking antacids for acidity may seem harmless, but it can silently affect your nutrient balance over time. Being aware of these risks and following simple precautions can help you manage acidity without compromising overall health.
