14 Nutrients That May Be Depleted by These Widely Used Medications

11. Selenium: The Thyroid Connection

Selenium is a trace mineral vital for thyroid hormone production and for creating powerful antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase. Long-term use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux can reduce stomach acid so much that it impairs selenium absorption. An ingenious and potent source of selenium is Brazil nuts – just one or two a day can often meet your daily needs! This simple addition can help support thyroid function when PPI use is necessary.

12. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The Anti-Inflammatory Allies

While daily aspirin or frequent NSAID use aims to reduce inflammation and pain (often by blocking COX enzymes), these drugs don’t address all inflammatory pathways and can have side effects. Omega-3s (from fatty fish, flax, or algae oil) offer a different, ingenious route to quelling inflammation by producing resolving and protecting. They can work synergistically with, or sometimes allow for lower doses of, NSAIDs, offering a more holistic approach to managing chronic inflammation.