« Return to Articles

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are both the most effective and the most hazardous form of contraception. Most are an oral dose of a combination of estrogen and progestin (synthetic progesterone) in amounts higher than the body’s natural levels. This prevents pituitary hormones that stimulate ovulation, and thus prevents pregnancy.

Although taking oral contraceptives regularly is 99% effective in birth control if taken properly, there are many possible side effects. Weight gain, breast tenderness, mood swings, tension, depression, circulatory and vascular symptoms and gastrointestinal upset are not uncommon. Blood clots, liver and gallbladder problems and cancer are also possible.

Along with the possible side effects, oral contraceptives deplete many nutrients. Most of the B vitamins, particularly B6, B12 and folic acid are needed in higher amounts when birth control pills are taken. Magnesium, which is required for building strong bones and teeth, is also required in higher amounts.

 

NUTRIENT

FUNCTION

SOURCE

Magnesium

Metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, vital for the health of the muscular, cardiovascular and nervous systems

Pumpkin seeds, nuts, brewer’s yeast, soy, dried apricots, seafood, molasses, green leafy vegetables

Zinc

Wound healing, carbohydrate digestion, growth, immunity

Seafood, soybeans, pumpkin/sunflower seeds

Vitamin B6

Digestion, fat and protein utilisation, maintains sodium/potassium balance

Green leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, tuna, beans, salmon, brown rice, bananas, avocados, eggs, bee pollen, whole grains, blackstrap molasses, prunes

Vitamin B12

Replication of genes, synthesis of myelin (for the nervous system), maturation of red blood cells

Organ meats, fish, eggs, poultry, yogurt, milk

Folic Acid

Appetite control, body growth and reproduction, hydrochloric acid production, RBC formation

Green leafy vegetables, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, tuna, salmon, dates, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, oatmeal

Vitamin C

Collagen production, healing, antioxidant, infection resistance

Citrus fruits, green peppers, broccoli, papaya, strawberries, rose hips, melon, tomatoes

Because Birth Control Pills are metabolized by the liver before being eliminated, a “liver friendly” diet is suggested. Alcohol, drugs, pesticides and preservatives in food should be avoided as well as reducing refined and sugary foods.

A nutrient dense diet is the best prevention. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables to prevent many mineral deficits and maintain weight. Essential fatty acids are essential to add to the daily diet because our bodies cannot produce them. Fish oil is a great source of these essential fatty acids, it also regulates many cellular activities, keeps blood platelets from sticking together, slows cholesterol production, reduces inflammation and increases the effectiveness of insulin.