Health alert over festive staples: Brussel sprouts and cranberries can interact with medicines, experts warn

Slipping on a patch of ice, falling while putting up Christmas decorations or Christmas lights causing a fire are just some of the dangers associated with Christmas.

But health bosses have gone one step further by warning against cranberry sauce and Brussels sprouts over the festive period.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) have released their 'five top tips' for people taking medicines or using medical devices over Christmas.

Dr. Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer, said: “For many people, the festive period is a time to come together, create cherished memories and share traditions.

'But despite all the hustle and bustle at this time of year, it's important not to let safety fall off your To Do list, especially when it comes to the use of medical products.'

For example, those taking warfarin, which is used to treat blood clots, should stay away from cranberry products or drinking cranberry juice, as this can increase the chance of bruising or bleeding.

The MHRA warned that certain foods or drinks may interact with certain medicines, changing their effects or increasing the risk of side effects.

For example, those taking warfarin, which is used to treat blood clots, should stay away from cranberry products or drinking cranberry juice, as this can increase the chance of bruising or bleeding.

Meanwhile, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and green Christmas vegetables are high in vitamin K, a chemical the body uses to promote blood clotting – counteracting the effects of warfarin and potentially making it less effective.

Drinking alcohol can affect the effectiveness of medications such as antibiotics, they said – but you should also keep an eye out for non-alcoholic drinks.

“Before you sip that mocktail with grapefruit juice, check first whether it is possible!”, the MHRA writes online.

'For example, do not drink grapefruit juice if you are taking simvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol.

'It increases the level of the drug in your blood and increases the chance of side effects. Some medicines used to treat cancer may also interact with grapefruit juice.”

They also told people to be wary of 'dodgy diet products', including weight loss pills or fake pens, which can be fake and potentially harmful.

Certain types of medications can impair your ability to drive, she added, saying you shouldn't get behind the wheel if you feel drowsy or dizzy, can't concentrate or make decisions, or if you have blurred or double vision.

The final two 'tips' include checking the dosage of painkillers and reporting any side effects of medications to the MHRA.