Nutrients Depleted by EContra One-Step

• Zinc

  Studies suggest that oral contraceptives (OCs) may contribute to zinc deficiency. Research has shown a significant decrease in serum zinc levels, the zinc circulating in the blood, in women taking OCs. This decrease is thought to be due to potential changes in how the body absorbs, excretes, or utilizes zinc within tissues. Due to its vital role in many bodily functions, ensuring sufficient zinc intake through supplementation should be considered for women on birth control pills.

  Replace with Zinc Bisglycinate (12.5 mg)

• Vitamin B1

  Studies suggest a potential for mild thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency with long-term use of Oral Contraceptives (OCs). One finding showed that red blood cell activity of an enzyme dependent on thiamine (transketolase) decreased during OC treatment. This decrease indicates that the cells might not have enough thiamine to function optimally, suggesting a mild thiamine deficiency induced by the contraceptives. Supplementation with thiamine (vitamin B1) should be considered for women using OCs.

  Replace with Vitamin B1 Thiamine (10 mg)

• Folic Acid

  Women using oral contraceptives (OCs) for extended periods may experience a decrease in their folate levels. Studies suggest that OC use might lower blood folate levels by up to 40%. This depletion can be a concern because folate plays a crucial role in red blood cell production. One research finding highlights a case where a patient developed anemia and nerve problems (polyneuropathy) after stopping vitamin B12 therapy, suggesting that folate deficiency might have been the main underlying issue. Supplementation of folate should be considered during oral contraceptive use.

  Replace with Folate (0.2mg as L-5-Methylfolate) (0.34 DFE)

Suppressed Nutrients

• Tyrosine

  Women using oral contraceptives (OCs) may experience mood changes, including depression. Research suggests a potential link between these emotional shifts and a decrease in brain levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (noradrenaline). This decrease could be related to reduced availability of its precursor molecule, tyrosine, in the brain. Studies have shown a significant decline in tyrosine levels in women on OCs. One study found that the area under the curve (AUC) in plasma for tyrosine in OC users were 43% of control levels. Tyrosine supplementation could potentially help regulate mood and improve emotional well-being while taking OCs.

  Replace with L-Tyrosine (200 mg)

• Vitamin E

  When using oral contraceptives (OCs), the body might experience increased oxidative stress due to hormonal changes. Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, could potentially help counteract this stress and promote cellular health. Research shows that combining vitamin E with vitamin C supplementation might be even more beneficial. Studies like one where Group C received both vitamins showed a significant increase in the activity of enzymes (GPx and GR) crucial for antioxidant defense, along with a reduction in markers of oxidative damage (plasma MDA levels). This suggests that a combined approach with vitamins E and C might offer enhanced protection against cellular stress for women using OCs.

  Replace with Natural Vitamin E d-alpha-tocopherol + mixed tocopherols (33 mg)

• Vitamin B2

  Women using Oral Contraceptives (OCs) may benefit from including vitamin B2 (riboflavin) in their regimen. Vitamin B2 plays a critical role in activating other B vitamins, like folic acid and B6, which are essential for various bodily functions. Studies have shown that women on OCs have lower levels of active vitamin B2, as measured by the activity of an enzyme dependent on it (glutathione reductase). These reduced levels might be linked to migraines, a frequent side effect of OCs that can sometimes lead women to discontinue the medication. By ensuring adequate B2 intake, women on OCs may potentially experience reduced migraine frequency and benefit from the proper activation of other B vitamins.

  Replace with Vitamin B2 Riboflavin (10 mg)