Birth Control/Nutrients

Hormonal birth control—especially oral contraceptives—has been shown to deplete several key nutrients in the body over time. These include B vitamins (particularly B2, B6, B12, and folate), magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients play important roles in mood regulation, energy production, immune function, and antioxidant protection. Long-term use of birth control can increase the body’s need for these vitamins and minerals, which may contribute to symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, headaches, or low immunity.

While I highly reccomend anyone on birth control take a supplement (see below for reccomendations) there are some supplements you should not take, s keep these in mind as you search this site. These include:

St. John’s Wort

• Why: It can reduce the effectiveness of birth control by speeding up the liver’s metabolism of hormones. This is one of the most well-documented interactions.

1. Activated Charcoal/Binders or High-Dose Fiber Supplements

   • Why: These can interfere with absorption of medications, including birth control pills, if taken too close together.

2. Vitamin C (in very high doses)

   • Why: Large doses may slightly increase estrogen levels, though the clinical relevance is unclear. Moderate intake is safe, but megadoses should be discussed with a provider.

3. Dong Quai, Chaste Tree (Vitex), and Other Hormone-Modulating Herbs

   • Why: These herbs can influence estrogen and progesterone levels, potentially disrupting the hormonal balance birth control aims to maintain.

4. Licorice Root (in supplement form)

   • Why: It can impact hormone metabolism and blood pressure, and might interfere with hormonal birth control’s regulation.