By Rachel Wickenden |
The best time to take your vitamins? It all comes down to what kind of vitamin you’re consuming! Some vitamins play nice with food, while others are ready to party solo. Either way, adding vitamins to your daily routine is a super easy way to keep your body fueled and feeling fabulous — alongside a balanced diet, of course.
For the fat-soluble vitamins (we’re looking at you, vitamins A, D, E, and K), it’s best to take them with your biggest meal of the day — usually lunch or dinner. These vitamins ride the digestion wave alongside healthy fats, soaking up all the goodness as your body breaks down your meal.
Meanwhile, water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B-complex vitamins are more low-maintenance. You can take them anytime, but many people swear by starting their day with them for an extra energy boost. It’s like giving your morning a little electric spark!
Vitamins are categorised based on their solubility:
This vitamin is best taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. Consuming it first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before breakfast, or two hours after a meal is ideal. Pairing vitamin C with a glass of water helps it dissolve and boosts absorption, making it easier for your body to soak up all the benefits!
These vitamins play a vital role in energy production and cognitive function. Taking them in the morning with a meal can help boost energy levels throughout the day and prevent potential nausea that might occur if taken on an empty stomach.
To ensure optimal absorption, these health vitamins should be taken with meals containing dietary fats. Consuming them during lunch or dinner, which typically include higher fat content, facilitates better uptake. For instance, pairing these vitamins with foods like avocados, nuts, or olive oil can enhance their absorption.
Multivitamins contain a combination of both water and fat-soluble vitamins. To maximise absorption we’d recommend taking multivitamins with a meal that includes healthy fats ensures that fat-soluble vitamins are adequately absorbed while minimising potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Consistency is also key to improve the effectiveness of this wellness supplement. Make taking your multivitamin a daily habit by pairing it with breakfast or lunch — it’s an easy way to stay consistent and make sure you never miss a dose!
Iron supplements are best absorbed on an empty stomach. However, to reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects, they can be taken with a small amount of food. Avoid consuming iron supplements with calcium-rich foods or beverages like milk, as calcium can inhibit iron absorption.
Taking magnesium supplements in the evening can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Consuming them with food may reduce the likelihood of digestive discomfort.
For pregnant individuals, consistency is key. Taking prenatal vitamins at the same time each day, preferably with a meal, can enhance absorption and reduce nausea. If morning sickness is an issue, consider taking them in the evening.
To maximise the efficiency of probiotics, it's recommended to take them on an empty stomach, either first thing in the morning or before bedtime, to ensure that the beneficial bacteria reach the gut without interference from digestive processes.
Understanding the best time to take vitamins and supplements is crucial for maximising their benefits. Factors such as vitamin solubility, individual health needs, and potential interactions play significant roles in determining optimal timing. By aligning Diso’s wellness bundle with a balanced diet, individuals can support their overall health and wellbeing effectively.
As always, consulting a healthcare professional can help you navigate the best approach for your unique needs and goals. If you have any further questions about Diso’s vitamins, take a look at our wellness hub to get a better idea of how our supplements work or get in touch with us.
