By Justin Ceravolo, PharmD
Each March, National Nutrition Month spotlights the vital connection between healthy eating and overall wellness. While many people turn to their doctors or nutritionists for dietary guidance, your local pharmacist can be an equally valuable resource in your nutrition journey. These healthcare professionals offer unique insights into how medications, supplements, and nutrition work together to support your health.
Pharmacists undergo extensive training in biochemistry and understand how nutrients interact with medications, making them ideally positioned to offer personalized nutrition advice. For instance, they can explain why certain medications should be taken with food, while others work better on an empty stomach. They’re also knowledgeable about potential interactions between supplements and prescription medications – information that could be crucial for your health.
Beyond medication management, pharmacists can help identify nutritional gaps that might affect your health. Many medications can impact nutrient absorption or increase your body’s demand for specific vitamins and minerals. Your pharmacist can recommend appropriate dietary adjustments or supplements to counteract these effects. For example, some blood pressure medications may deplete potassium levels, requiring increased consumption of potassium-rich foods or supplementation under professional guidance.
Pharmacists are particularly valuable for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or gastrointestinal disorders. They can provide tailored advice about dietary choices that complement your medication regimen and support your overall treatment plan. For diabetic patients, pharmacists often offer guidance about meal timing in relation to insulin or other diabetes medications, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Your pharmacist can also be an excellent resource for decoding nutrition labels and evaluating dietary supplements. With countless products on the market making various health claims, having a knowledgeable professional help you navigate these choices is invaluable. They can explain which supplements might benefit your specific health situation and which ones to avoid based on your current medications and health status.
During National Nutrition Month, many pharmacies offer expanded nutrition services, such as medication nutrition reviews or educational workshops about healthy eating. These services provide excellent opportunities to discuss your nutrition concerns with your pharmacist and develop strategies for improving your dietary habits.
The accessibility of pharmacists makes them particularly valuable nutrition partners. Unlike other healthcare providers who require appointments, pharmacists are often available for quick consultations during pharmacy hours. This convenience allows you to address nutrition questions or concerns as they arise.
Remember that your pharmacist is part of your healthcare team and can collaborate with your other healthcare providers to ensure your nutrition plan aligns with your overall health goals. This National Nutrition Month, consider scheduling a consultation with your pharmacist to discuss how you can optimize your nutrition while safely managing your medications.
Justin Ceravolo, PharmD – Owner & Pharmacist
Justin Ceravolo, also known as J.T., earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Florida A&M University’s College of Pharmacy in 2012. That same year, Justin began working in Florida’s Panhandle before becoming a new member of the Cypress Wellness Pharmacy family in October of 2012. Cypress Wellness Pharmacy believes that each patient, whether he or she is a human or pet, should be given their own special attention and service. In 2024 Justin became the owner of Cypress Wellness Pharmacy and is committed to advancing the pharmacy’s phenomenal reputation for personalized service with a focus on education and well-being for all patients and customers. Whether you need your medication in another compounded form or you simply need advice, Justin and his team will ensure fast and efficient service that goes above and beyond your average pharmacy.
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9451 Cypress Lake Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33919