Different forms of birth control have been used for thousands of years, however within the past half century the options available have grown immensely, as well as the moral beliefs surrounding the topic. According to the Canadian Contraception Survey of 2015, the most widely used methods are condoms (54%), birth control pills (46%), and the withdrawal method (11%). Other popular methods include tracking ovulation, and IUDs (Intrauterine devices). When the pill was officially made legal in 1969, women had a means of control over their own bodies for the first time. While there is no denying the benefit of having access to it, as with proper use it is 99% effective for the prevention of pregnancy, there is little education surrounding the downsides of taking synthetic hormones.
Beyond preventing pregnancy, the pill is being prescribed for a vast array of reasons including PMS symptoms, acne, or simply “balancing hormones”. Young girls who are not even sexually active are being prescribed these pills before their bodies have had the chance to find their natural rhythm.
The long list of (common) side effects include nausea, headaches, fatigue, depression and other mood disorders, weight gain, decreased libido, as well as elevated triglyceride levels and decreased glucose tolerance. Often women take birth control and without ever really questioning it and assume the negative symptoms they are experiencing are normal. While there is no doubt it is an incredible medicine, that had a huge impact on women and feminism, it is not the cure-all for women’s troubles that we are told it is. The purpose of this is not to convince you to stop taking the pill, but rather provide important information so you are able to make informed, educated decisions for your own body.
Nutrient Deficiencies and the Pill
What is little known is that the side effects that occur are due to the depletion of important vitamins and minerals. These include Folic acid, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, vitamin C and E, as well as B2, B6, B12, and perhaps even more. It is not fully understood why this occurs; however, it is likely due to imbalanced gut bacteria caused by the medication (another little-known fact), resulting in a lowered ability to absorb and synthesize these nutrients. With understanding how these nutrients work, the side effects women have will begin to make more sense.
Vitamin C
One of the most important antioxidants in our bodies, vitamin C is also essential for immune function, and preventing heavy metal toxicity. The estrogen found in the pill changes the rate of metabolism of vitamin C, leading to increased loss in the urine.
Vitamin E
Also, a powerful antioxidant, Vitamin E is a group of vitamins (the tocopherols), that have the special ability to be recycled and reused in the body. It is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it can get into the cell membranes and protect them from damage. Low levels are associated with blood clotting, another concern for women on the pill.
Selenium
Selenium is one of the most important minerals for thyroid function. It is considered a trace mineral, meaning a high intake is not required. However, 1 in 6 women have a thyroid imbalance. So, with that on top of taking the pill, consuming an adequate amount is crucial. Good sources of selenium are nuts and seeds.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate biochemical reactions in the body. These include protein synthesis, energy production, muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. The pill can seriously reduce magnesium levels in the body, leading to imbalances in calcium and magnesium ratios, once again increasing the risk of blood clots.
Zinc
Zinc is another mineral that has been known to be depleted by the pill since the 1960s. It is involved in immune function, helping the body to fight infection and speed wound healing. It is also important for brain health and proper growth and development.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Riboflavin is an essential B vitamin, meaning it is not stored in the body and you must consume it, it is found in yeast, organ meats, and leafy greens to name a few. It is necessary for energy production, and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Deficiency is common and is worsened using the pill. Supplementing B2 can be incredibly effective in managing headaches and migraines, which are common side effects.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
B6 is needed for protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism (turning food into energy), and is necessary for the production of Serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter in the brain. Low levels of this vitamin are associated with mood swings, depression and anxiety.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
B12 is crucial for proper nerve and brain function, cellular metabolism, and forming new red blood cells. A deficiency of this vitamin can result in fatigue, anxiety, dizziness, nerve problems, and a form of anemia called megoblastic anemia.
You can avoid the ill effects of hormonal birth control by paying close attention to your diet to ensure you are getting an adequate amount of these nutrients. This can be difficult however, so supplementing may be a good option.
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Written by Hayley Dickenson, RHN
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