Can I take Adcal and Zinc bisglycinate together?

Why this happens

Calcium and zinc are both minerals that use the same 'pathway' to get from your gut into your bloodstream. When taken at the same time, the large amount of calcium in Adcal competes with the zinc and effectively blocks it from being absorbed.

To ensure you absorb both minerals properly, you should separate the doses. Take your zinc supplement at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your Adcal.

Antibiotic treatment (Tetracyclines or Quinolones)

These supplements can stop certain antibiotics from working. You must space them at least 2 to 3 hours apart from your antibiotic dose.

Kidney stones or severe kidney disease

Do not take this medicine if you have a history of recurring kidney stones or severe kidney failure without specialist supervision, as it can worsen these conditions.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Cola)

Caffeine can slightly reduce the amount of calcium your body absorbs. It is best to limit excessive caffeine intake when taking calcium supplements.

Dairy products (Milk, Cheese, Yoghurt)

While Adcal contains calcium, taking it with very large amounts of other dairy products can occasionally lead to 'milk-alkali syndrome'. For Zinc, dairy can interfere with absorption; try to take your zinc supplement at least 2 hours apart from high-calcium meals or dairy.

High-fibre foods and Phytates (Whole grains, pulses, nuts)

Foods high in phytic acid (found in whole-grain cereals, bran, and beans) can bind to both calcium and zinc in the gut, preventing them from being absorbed properly. Try to take these supplements at a different time of day from very high-fibre meals.

Oxalic acid (Spinach, Rhubarb, Beetroot)

Oxalic acid found in spinach and rhubarb can reduce calcium absorption. If these are a large part of your meal, wait 2 hours before taking your Adcal.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.