Based on NIH | Is it safe to eat tofu right before taking naproxen, or could soy or calcium-set tofu interfere with its absorption or increase stomach side effects?

Eating tofu right before taking naproxen is generally considered safe, and typical soy foods (including calcium-set tofu) do not meaningfully reduce naproxen’s overall absorption. ^[1] Evidence shows that food can slightly change how fast naproxen reaches peak levels, but the total amount your body absorbs stays essentially the same, so pain control is not expected to be compromised. ^[1] For controlled‑release naproxen tablets, studies in healthy adults found no substantial change in absorption when taken with food compared to fasting. ^[2] Overall, the rate and extent of naproxen absorption are not substantially altered by eating, even though the peak level can be modestly lower or delayed. ^{[1] [2]}

Soy and drug absorption

There is no high‑quality human evidence that eating soy foods (like tofu) directly interferes with naproxen absorption. ^[1] Some laboratory and animal data suggest soy components can modulate drug transporters or metabolizing enzymes, but clinical relevance is uncertain and has not been shown for naproxen. ^[3] Because these findings are not confirmed in human trials for naproxen, routine soy intake does not need to be avoided around naproxen dosing. ^[3]

Calcium‑set tofu specifics

Calcium‑set tofu contains added calcium and can be a significant calcium source, which varies by brand and processing method. ^[4] Tofu made with calcium salts can contribute notable calcium, while tofu made with other salts may provide little calcium. ^[5] There is no evidence that dietary calcium from tofu impairs naproxen absorption in a clinically meaningful way. ^[1] Unlike some antibiotics that bind calcium in the gut, naproxen is not known to chelate dietary calcium to reduce bioavailability. ^[1]

Food timing and stomach comfort

Naproxen (an NSAID) can irritate the stomach and increase the risk of stomach bleeding, especially at higher doses, in older adults, or when combined with alcohol or blood thinners. ^[6] Many over‑the‑counter labels advise taking naproxen with food or milk if stomach upset occurs, because food can soften the impact on the stomach lining. ^[7] Eating a normal meal or snack (including tofu) close to your dose may slow the rate of absorption slightly but does not reduce the total amount absorbed, and it may help with stomach comfort. ^{[1] [7]}

Practical guidance

• You can take naproxen with tofu or other foods if you tend to get stomach upset; the overall absorption of naproxen remains essentially unchanged. ^{[1] [7]}
• If you need faster onset for pain relief, taking naproxen on an empty stomach may reach peak levels sooner, but this can increase stomach irritation; consider your sensitivity. ^{[1] [7]}
• Limit alcohol and avoid combining naproxen with other NSAIDs to reduce bleeding risk. ^[6]
• If you have a history of ulcers, bleeding, or you use anticoagulants or steroids, discuss gastroprotection (for example, a proton pump inhibitor) with your clinician. ^[6]

Bottom line

Based on human pharmacokinetic studies, eating tofu whether regular or calcium‑set does not meaningfully interfere with naproxen absorption, and taking naproxen with food can be reasonable to reduce stomach discomfort. ^{[1] [7]} While laboratory data suggest soy may influence certain drug pathways, this has not been shown to affect naproxen in a clinically relevant way. ^[3] If you are at higher risk for stomach bleeding or have frequent stomach symptoms, be mindful of overall NSAID safety measures regardless of soy intake. ^[6]