How to Take Vitamins - Including Tips on the Best Time to Take a Vitamin Supplement

Introduction to Taking Vitamins

Many people take vitamins every day but do not realize there are certain precautions that must be followed in order to take them properly. Taking vitamins improperly can cause them to absorb incorrectly, risk of over dose, and many other complications. In order for vitamins to work effectively, certain guidelines should be followed.

Taking Multivitamins

Multivitamins are used to promote over all health. Multivitamins should be taken once daily. These vitamins should be taken at the same time every day to receive the most benefits. Here are some tips on how to choose a multivitamin.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is often used to maintain healthy eye sight and for healthy skin. Vitamin A should be taken at the same time every day to receive its full benefits. Proper dosage should be followed because vitamin A overdose can cause liver damage.

B Vitamins

B Vitamins are often included as a multivitamin. B vitamins should be taken at the same time every day. Taking these vitamins can sometimes cause nausea; therefore it is best to take it with a light, non greasy meal. However, vitamin B12 and folic acid should be taken on an empty stomach and not with iron supplements. B vitamins should not be taken at the same time as other multivitamins.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is needed in the body to maintain cartilage, skin, teeth, blood vessels, and bones. Vitamin C can be taken with or without food, 1 or 2 times a day. A full glass of water should be taken with vitamin C. This vitamin should be taken at the same time everyday.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is used in the body for proper bone health. Vitamin D can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take this vitamin at the same time everyday. It is best to take vitamin D before bed time so it does not interact with other medications.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is needed in the body to protect cells from damage. This vitamin should be taken regularly every day. It is best to take vitamin E either two hours before or two hours after any other medications or supplements. It should be taken at the same time everyday.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is needed in the body to allow the blood to clot properly. Vitamin K should not be used with blood thinners. This vitamin should be taken at least two hours before or after any other medications and supplements.

Calcium

Calcium is used in the body to keep muscles, bones, nerves, and cells functioning properly. Calcium dosages should be divided into 2 times a day. Calcium supplements should be taken with a glass of water at the same time everyday. Calcium supplements should not be taken at the same time as iron supplements.

Iron

Iron is needed in the body to maintain proper blood levels. Iron supplements are best taken on an empty stomach. It should be taken at least 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. It should be taken with a full glass of water. Iron should not be taken with vitamin B12 or folic acid.

Taking vitamins properly is essential to receiving their full benefits.

References:

“Drugs and Medicines A-Z” webmd.com