Nutrient Depletions from Birth Control, SSRI’s & Other Common Medications
This is something I only learned recently, and honestly, it blew my mind a little!
Did you know that some of the medications people take every day, like birth control or antidepressants, can actually change the way our bodies absorb and use certain nutrients? It’s not always a big deal, but over time (especially if your diet, stress, or gut health aren’t in the best place), these little shifts can start to add up.
In this post, I want to break down how birth control pills, SSRIs and SNRIs (common antidepressants), and a few other medications can quietly affect your nutrient levels, and more importantly, what you can do to keep your body supported and in balance.
How Birth Control Pills Affect Nutrients
Oral contraceptives are among the most widely used medications worldwide. While they’re effective and generally safe, several studies have found that they can lower certain vitamin and mineral levels in the body.
Nutrients affected by oral contraceptives:
Folic acid (Vitamin B9): Needed for healthy blood and DNA synthesis, and crucial for preventing birth defects if pregnancy occurs. Some studies show lower folate levels in women taking the pill.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Supports energy production and cellular repair. Deficiency appears more common with long-term use.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Plays a role in mood regulation, metabolism, and blood sugar balance. Low levels may contribute to fatigue or low mood.
Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and red blood cell production. Some users may experience reduced absorption, though symptoms are uncommon.
Vitamin C: Important for immune health, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant defense. Some studies show slightly lower levels in those on oral contraceptives.
Magnesium, Selenium, and Zinc: Key minerals for hormonal balance, metabolism, and skin health. Birth control pills may reduce these, particularly if dietary intake is inadequate.
Antidepressants (SSRIs & SNRIs) and Nutrient Interactions
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. While they can be life-changing for mental health, they may also influence nutrient balance and certain physiological processes.
Here’s what research says:
Hyponatremia (Low Sodium): SSRIs and SNRIs can cause low sodium levels, especially in older adults, through a mechanism called SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion). Medications like duloxetine and escitalopram are associated with higher risk, while paroxetine and bupropion carry a lower risk.
Bone Health and Micronutrients: Long-term SSRI use is linked to reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fracture risk. Research shows us that this risk is amplified in people with low intake of calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and zinc. Nutritional education and regular monitoring can help mitigate bone loss.
Anemia: High-affinity SSRIs and SNRIs may slightly increase the risk of anemia, sometimes related to abnormal bleeding or altered nutrient absorption. Monitoring is particularly important in women of reproductive age.
Drug–Nutrient Interactions: SSRIs can interact with certain nutrients and other medications, affecting metabolism and absorption. Malnutrition or poor dietary intake can also reduce SSRI efficacy, which is particularly relevant in those with eating disorders.
Other Common Medications That May Affect Nutrient Levels
Several everyday medications can have similar nutrient-depleting effects. Here are a few examples:
Proton pump inhibitors, often used for heartburn or reflux, may affect vitamin B12 and magnesium levels.
Metformin, a common diabetes medication, has been linked to lower vitamin B12 and thiamine (B1) levels.
Diuretics, sometimes called “water pills,” can reduce magnesium, zinc, and sometimes potassium in the body.
Methotrexate, an immunosuppressant, may impact folic acid (B9) levels.
Ways to Support Nutrient Balance
While medications are often necessary and helpful, there are some ways to stay mindful of your nutrient status:
Focus on a balanced diet: Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and quality proteins can help ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
Stay informed about your medications: Learning which nutrients might be affected by the medications you take can help you have more informed conversations with your healthcare provider.
Consider talking with a professional: If you’ve been on a medication long-term, it can be useful to discuss nutrient monitoring, testing, or supplementation with a licensed healthcare provider.
Be mindful of supplementation: Taking vitamins or minerals without guidance can sometimes be harmful. A healthcare professional can help determine if supplementation is appropriate for you.
The Bottom Line
Medications like birth control, SSRIs, and others can subtly alter your body’s nutrient balance over time. Understanding these interactions helps you stay proactive, through diet, targeted supplementation, and regular testing, to maintain your energy, mood, and overall wellbeing.
This post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with a licensed healthcare provider about your medications, nutrient intake, or supplements.
References:
Palmery M, Saraceno A, Vaiarelli A, Carlomagno G. Oral contraceptives and changes in nutritional requirements. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2013 Jul;17(13):1804–1813.
Wilson SM, Bivins BN, Russell KA, Bailey LB. Oral contraceptive use: impact on folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 status. Nutr Rev. 2011 Oct;69(10):572–583. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00419.x.
Kindilien S, Goldberg EM, Roberts MH, Gonzales-Pacheco D. Nutrition status, bone mass density, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Prev Med. 2018 Aug;113:62–67. doi:10.1016/j.ypmed.2018.05.008.
Mo H, Channa Y, Ferrara TM, et al. Hyponatremia associated with the use of common antidepressants in the All of Us Research Program. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2025 Feb;117(2):534–543. doi:10.1002/cpt.3484.