Handbook of Food-Drug Interactions

Review by Norman M. Goldfarb Handbook of Food-Drug Interactions is an interdisciplinary guide to the prevention and correction of negative food-drug interactions. The book provides explanations and gives spe-cific recommendations based on the frequency and severity of reactions. Substantial research has been conducted since this classic volume was originally published, but the book remains in print because of its lasting value.Some foods and nutritional supplements can change the phys-iological effects of some drugs. Similarly, some drugs can change the nutritional properties of some foods. Over three-quarters of U.S. adults take one or more nutritional supplments, so these cross-effects cannot be ignored in clinical research. The list of foods and nutritional supplements that change the physiological effects of some drugs seems to be endless, and includes the following:•Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinolates that can inhibit liver enzymes, thereby slowing the metabolism of certain drugs.•Anthocyanins, courmarins, flavanoids, lignans, tannins and other chemicals are ubiquitous in plants. Normal consumption may be harmless but, when concentrated in nutritional supplements, may inhibit liver enzymes and other physiological functions.•Nutritional supplements containing garlic can contain a wide variety of chemicals in various forms, some of which can affect drug metabolism.•Reducing sodium intake can blunt the efficacy of calci-um channel blockers.•The yeast extract, Marmite, can cause hypertension, while other yeast extracts appear not to do so.•Oregano can interfere with fertility drugs.•Licorice extract can increase sodium retention and potassium depletion.•Papaya can increase the effect of warfarin and other anti-coagulants.The book includes 17 chapters from 21 contributors.