After taking ibuprofen, never consume these 5 types of food
Oct 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
There is no such claim that you must never consume five specific foods after taking ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a fever-reducing, pain-relieving, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug available commonly in forms such as capsules and tablets. Foods typically advised to avoid after taking ibuprofen include alcohol, milk, coffee, strong tea, and ice cream. If you have special concerns, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use to obtain professional advice.
Generally speaking, there is no truth to the claim that one must never consume five specific foods after taking ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for fever reduction and pain relief, commonly available in capsules, tablets, and other forms. However, certain foods should typically be avoided after taking ibuprofen, including alcohol, milk, coffee, strong tea, and ice cream. The detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Alcohol
Alcohol is primarily metabolized in the liver. Most of it is converted into acetaldehyde by alcohol dehydrogenase, then further broken down into acetic acid by aldehyde dehydrogenase, and finally excreted from the body as carbon dioxide and water. Ibuprofen is also metabolized in the liver. When both substances are present, they compete for metabolic enzymes in the liver, which slows down the metabolism of ibuprofen and increases its blood concentration.
2. Milk
Milk contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which may bind with ibuprofen to form insoluble complexes. These complexes can interfere with the absorption of ibuprofen, reducing its effectiveness. For ibuprofen to work properly, it needs to be absorbed in its free form through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. Binding with components in milk reduces the amount of active drug available for absorption.
3. Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and also promotes gastric acid secretion. Ibuprofen itself may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and indigestion. Drinking coffee after taking ibuprofen further increases gastric acid production,加重 the burden on the digestive system, and may lead to symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux.
4. Strong Tea
Tea contains tannic acid, and strong tea has higher concentrations. Tannic acid can chemically react with ibuprofen to form an insoluble precipitate. This precipitate not only impairs the absorption of ibuprofen, reducing its therapeutic effect, but may also irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
5. Ice Cream
Ice cream may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing spasms or stomach cramps. After taking ibuprofen, the digestive system may become more sensitive, so consuming cold or raw foods should be avoided to prevent worsening of adverse reactions.
It's important to note that these interactions may vary depending on individual differences. If you have special concerns or requirements, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use to obtain professional advice.
