Sunday, 21 July 2019

Best Time to Take Vitamins and Supplements

While people often take vitamins and supplements at a time that is convenient to them, it may not be when and how the nutrients work best with your body. So here is a quick checklist.

Anytime
  • Fish oils: best taken with a meal to aid absorption.
  • Vitamin K: best taken with vitamin D, calcium and vitamin C.
  • Vitamin C: best taken in split doses throughout the day. Start in the morning and take the remainder later in the day.

Morning
  • B vitamins: take them with breakfast for a boost and to start the day well.
  • Co-enzyme Q10: ideally taken with breakfast or lunch and avoid taking before you go to bed.
  • Iron: best taken in the morning after breakfast. Avoid taking with tea or coffee.

Midday
  • Iodine: cannot be stored in the body, so a regular intake is needed. Best taken at midday.

Afternoon
  • Zinc: take in the afternoon with food as it can cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.
  • Vitamin D: best taken with a meal. Some studies show a negative effect on sleep, so take earlier in the afternoon.

Evening / Night
  • Calcium: many suggest taking calcium in the evening because it is best used at night.
  • Magnesium: Studies have shown that magnesium is a relaxant so take in the evening before you go to bed.
Source: Healthspan.