Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.


Navigating the world of dietary supplements can be tricky, especially when you're trying to boost your health without unintended side effects. This is especially important for our GrayVine community, where staying informed about health and wellness is a priority.

Recently, a pharmacist's viral video on social media highlighted common supplement mistakes that could lead to serious risks. Let’s break down her advice.




Ariana Medizade, a pharmacist known on social media as @thewellnesspharm, has sparked a conversation with her video that garnered over 7,000 likes. She warns against taking certain supplements in isolation, emphasizing the potential dangers and the importance of combining them correctly.

1. Vitamin D3 Without K2: A Calcification Culprit​

Vitamin D3 is a popular supplement, especially for those of us over 60 who may not synthesize it as efficiently from sunlight. However, Medizade cautions against taking it without its partner, vitamin K2.

The reason? Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption, but without K2, that calcium may deposit in arteries rather than bones, leading to calcification and long-term health issues.

Clover International Medicine supports this, noting that K2 directs calcium to bones and teeth, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

2. St. John's Wort: A Medication Menace​

St. John's Wort is often sought for its potential mood-boosting effects, but Medizade warns it's a “CYP3A4 inducer,” meaning it can accelerate the metabolism of other medications, rendering them less effective.

This is particularly concerning for those on oral contraceptives, as it may compromise their effectiveness and lead to breakthrough bleeding or ovulation. ScienceDirect echoes this, advising women on birth control to be wary of St. John's Wort.

3. Zinc and Magnesium: The Absorption Battle​

Lastly, Medizade advises against taking zinc and magnesium together because they compete for absorption. This competition can lead to wasted money and reduced benefits from both minerals.

Health.com confirms that while it's generally safe to take these minerals together in reasonable doses, high doses may impair absorption. They recommend consulting a healthcare provider before combining supplements.




Given these insights, how can we ensure we're supplementing safely and effectively? Here are some tips:

• Pair Wisely: If you're taking vitamin D3, consider a supplement that also contains K2, or ensure your diet is rich in K2 (found in foods like fermented dairy and natto).
• Check Interactions: Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding supplements like St. John's Wort to your regimen, especially if you're on other medications.
• Time It Right: If you're taking both zinc and magnesium, consider staggering their intake to avoid absorption issues. Look for products with an optimized dose ratio, as Medizade suggests, such as 1 to 10 or 1 to 15.

Supplements can be a valuable addition to our health routine, but they're not without risks. It's crucial to understand how they interact with each other and with medications. As we age, our bodies change, and what worked for us in the past may not be suitable now. By staying informed and consulting with healthcare professionals, we can make smart choices that support our well-being.
Have you experienced issues with supplements? Do you have any tips for managing your supplement intake? Share your stories and advice in the comments below.