The Best Time To Take Your Vitamins Every Day
Many people take one or more vitamins to augment the nutrition they glean from their diet. But does the time of day you take your supplements matter? Is there a particular time that's best for your body?
In fact, when you take your vitamins matters a lot. And things can actually get quite complex depending on which vitamins and minerals you're taking. That being said, experts agree that the absolute best time takes them is when you will remember to. If you routinely remember them in the morning, then take them when you first wake up. If nighttime is best, then take them when you brush your teeth or get ready for bed.
But if you're a night owl, consider that you may not be getting the best nutritional bang for your buck by taking them before you head off to sleep. Jeffrey Blumberg, professor of nutrition science and policy at Tufts University, told The Washington Post, "Digestion slows down during sleep, so taking your nutrient supplement late at night would not be associated with efficient absorption."
Pay attention to when you take what
And absorption is the name of the game when it comes to vitamins. It's not enough to just put them in your mouth — you also want your body to efficiently process the nutrients contained in your supplements.
Some vitamins are best absorbed when taken with food. These include fat-soluble supplements like vitamins A, D, E, and K, according to Medical News Today. You don't need much fat to process these nutrients, though — just a little of the healthy variety, according to WebMD.
Iron is best processed when taken on an empty stomach. It if causes nausea, however, take it following a meal that is low in calcium, which can interfere with iron absorption.
Mineral supplements like magnesium, zinc, and calcium aren't well-absorbed when taken together. They fight with one another for the body's resources, which eliminates their overall efficacy. Take them individually, preferably following a meal to avoid stomach upset.
B vitamins, which include niacin, folic acid, thiamin, and riboflavin, in addition to B6 and B12, provide a boost of energy after consumption. Because of this, you'll want to make this supplement part of your morning routine to avoid interfering with your sleep.
Some vitamins can interact with prescription medications, so before you add any to your dietary routine, speak with your doctor to ensure you establish the best plan for your overall health.