People taking widely prescribed medications for high blood pressure or heart failure have been cautioned about a potential risk lurking in their fruit bowl. While fruits are a cornerstone of a healthy diet, a medical expert has highlighted that they can have damaging interactions with specific drugs.
The ACE Inhibitor Alert
Dr Chris House, appearing on ITV's This Morning programme, warned that everyday fruits, including bananas, can interfere with a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. These medications, such as captopril, enalapril, and fosinopril, are commonly used to treat hypertension and heart failure by relaxing blood vessels.
Dr House explained that the issue centres on potassium. "Bananas (as well as oranges and certain salt substitutes) are high in potassium. Mixed with these drugs, these foods can cause high potassium levels," he stated. This condition, known as hyperkalaemia, can lead to serious complications including irregular heartbeat and palpitations.
Understanding the Potassium Danger
Potassium is a crucial mineral for nerve and muscle function, particularly for maintaining a healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure. However, when levels become too high due to a combination of medication and diet, the consequences can be severe.
According to Kidney Research UK, symptoms of excessive potassium can include:
- Muscle weakness
- A slow heartbeat
- In extreme cases, the heart stopping
Dr House's advice is clear: "Avoid eating large amounts of foods high in potassium if you're on ACE inhibitors." He also urged patients to inform their GP if they are taking potassium supplements or diuretics alongside their blood pressure medication.
Other Common Food and Drug Interactions
The warning extends beyond bananas. Dr House noted that a range of other common consumables can disrupt various medications.
For instance, calcium in milk, yoghurt, and cheese can interfere with the absorption of some antibiotics, like ciprofloxacin. He advised not taking these medications at the same time as consuming calcium-rich foods or supplements.
Other key interactions highlighted include:
- Grapefruit with statins for high cholesterol.
- Black liquorice with certain heart medicines like digoxin.
- Leafy greens with anticoagulants (blood thinners).
- Coffee with asthma bronchodilators.
"You should always ask your doctor about precautions you should take while being prescribed any new medication," Dr Chris emphasised. "Avoiding certain foods, altering your lifestyle habits, or taking other precautions might be necessary to avoid undesirable side effects."
