Clinical Nutritionist Practice Test 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Nutrients can significantly influence drug absorption by changing stomach acidity and altering enzyme activity. The pH of the stomach affects the solubility of certain medications, with some drugs requiring an acidic environment to dissolve properly and be absorbed effectively. For example, a decrease in stomach acidity may hinder the absorption of drugs that need a low pH to be bioavailable.

Additionally, the presence of various nutrients can affect enzyme activity within the digestive system. Certain nutrients may enhance or inhibit the functionality of enzymes that are responsible for breaking down medications into their active forms. This interaction alters how well a drug is absorbed and metabolized in the body, leading to variations in therapeutic effects and side effects.

In contrast, while increases in urine output, enhancements in bile production, and dilution of medications can all have an impact on drug pharmacokinetics, they do not directly influence the initial absorption of a drug from the gastrointestinal tract in the same notable manner as stomach acidity and enzyme activity do.