HealthBeware of combining strawberries with certain medications: Surprising health risks revealed

Beware of combining strawberries with certain medications: Surprising health risks revealed

Some medications cannot be combined with strawberries.
Some medications cannot be combined with strawberries.
Images source: © Pixabay
Mateusz Domański

16 June 2024 14:39

It is strawberry season. Many people enjoy them without any limitations. Theoretically, there's nothing wrong with that: strawberries are full of valuable nutrients and are not high in calories. However, it's worth remembering that strawberries should not be combined with certain medications.

Strawberries are among the juiciest and sweetest fruits. They are also an excellent vitamin C, manganese, folic acid, and potassium source. It's also worth noting that strawberries are rich in antioxidants and plant compounds. These can positively impact heart health and reduce inflammation.

Most of these fruits are composed of water. In 100 grams of raw strawberries, you will find 32 kcal, 4.9 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fibre, and just 0.3 grams of fat. Some people, though, should be cautious about consuming strawberries.

If you are allergic to histamine, avoid strawberries altogether. Consuming this fruit can cause hives, vomiting, diarrhea, skin itching, or inflammation. Those allergic to salicylates should also avoid strawberries. Consumption may cause a dry cough and breathlessness.

Taking these medications? Don't eat strawberries

These fruits are a source of potassium, which, when combined with these medications, can do more harm than good. Beta-blockers raise the level of potassium in the body.

At the same time, it's noted that excessive potassium can result in hyperkalemia. This condition is dangerous to health, with the first symptoms being muscle pain and dizziness.

Experts also report that strawberries should not be combined with anticoagulants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This is because these fruits can interact with these medications, intensifying their side effects.

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