A dozen years ago, Rye Beach Pharmacy hired pharmacist Ron May to manage its natural products department.

By Robin Jovanovich

 

A dozen years ago, Rye Beach Pharmacy hired pharmacist Ron May to manage its natural products department. A sales rep whom both May and Rye Beach owner Bob GiaQuinto knew put them together. It was a great move for all concerned. Today, the revamped department does two-and-a half times the volume that it did before May arrived.

 

Having studied nutrition, worked at the largest nutritional pharmacy in the country, and owned a Manhattan pharmacy for over 25 years, May knows his stuff.

 

“I look at people as nutrition-deficient,” he said in an interview in between consultations at the busy pharmacy on Forest Avenue. “Some people can’t absorb one drug or another. Drugs reduce nutrients. All doctors need a semester on biometrics.”

 

May, who started his own nutritional advisory practice in 1996, not only recommends nutritional programs for those who want to achieve better health, he also designs wellness programs for patients with complex medical problems.

 

“I help clients anticipating surgery to improve outcomes. I work with clients currently on drug regimens to prevent nutrient depletion, minimize the side effects and possibly shorten the course of drug therapy,” he said.

 

He also works with triathletes to improve endurance.

 

“A lot of people are looking for homeopathic remedies. I work with lots of clients who have autoimmune issues.” He also helps people with no health issues simply add the right vitamins to their diet.

 

When not on the floor of the pharmacy, May does consultations and lectures locally. Many have heard him talk at The Osborn, Rye Recreation, and Community Synagogue. He charges $110 per hour to evaluate a patient, finding out about their diet, any symptoms or complaints, and then recommending a course of action.

 

Rye Beach Pharmacy has 10,000 customers, and May is happy to report that 2,000 to 3,000 of them depend on him for guidance.

 

He’s familiar with about 20,000 products. “We may only stock 57 of them at Rye Beach Pharmacy, but we can help anyone achieve better health.”