SCHEDULING YOUR VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS INTAKE

  

Supplements are the additional doses taken to complete the recommended nutritional constituency. They are of various kinds such as proteins, BCAAs, amino energy, and multivitamins. Multis, in particular, are a combination of various vitamins, and minerals. In this blog, you will learn about the right time to take vitamins and supplements.

WHEN TO TAKE VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Vitamins and supplements affect best when taken at on the right time, hence the following points:

Water-soluble vitamins: Multivitamins are of two kinds, water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored or produced in the human body. They are extracted from animal and plant supplements.

The most important water-soluble vitamins include vitamin C and vitamin B. Vitamin C is availed through citric fruits and foods like lemon, oranges, etc. Vitamin C is safe to take at any time of the day. Since, the human body does not store vitamin C, so people should take it on a daily basis, preferably in small doses throughout the day.

Vitamin B is the next important water-soluble vitamin. It involves a lot of sub B vitamins, which help to boost energy and reduce stress. There are eight different types of B vitamins, in total and is generally safe to take several B vitamins at the same time. In fact, there are various companies that offer vitamin complexes, which contain a blend of B vitamins. Since all of them increase your energy levels, hence it is best to take them after waking up. There are certain researches that indicate that vitamin B-6 may interfere with sleep. In order to avoid this harmful effect, it is best to take vitamin B-6 earlier in the day.

Fat-soluble vitamins

The next category of vitamins and supplements is the fat-soluble vitamins, advisable to take in small doses. The most important fat-soluble vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. Fat-soluble vitamins easily dissolve in oil. Hence, it is best to take them alongside meals to enhance absorption.

Prenatal vitamins

Prenatal vitamins and supplements, as the name implies, are for pregnant women. The most important one here is folic acid as it helps in the formation of the fetus. Along with folic acid, iron and calcium are also crucial.

Talking about the right time, consuming prenatal vitamins on an empty stomach may cause indigestion and nausea, to some people. It can increase the feelings of nausea. Hence, experts recommend taking prenatal vitamins and supplements after a meal. Also, pregnant ladies should take precautions to not take all the supplements together. It is absolutely necessary to consult the doctors.

Other supplements: In addition to the above, there are certainly other supplements essential for the human body. There are minerals, proteins, and BCAAs. The most common minerals include:

• iron
• calcium
• magnesium
• zinc

It is important to note that people should always exercise caution before taking a mineral supplement. Minerals offer various benefits, particularly for those with a nutrient deficiency. They help to combat deficiencies, manage body metabolism, boost energy, and strengthens one’s immune system. However, consuming too much of a mineral, may have harmful effects. In some cases, taking mineral supplements without food might even result in side effects, such as an upset stomach.

CAUTIONS

When taking multivitamins and supplements, note the following points of caution:

Overdose of certain vitamins will lead to side effects;

Certain interactions between your vitamins and prescription drugs you take can also be harmful. For instance, vitamin K supplements should not be combined with the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin);

Pregnant ladies should not double up on their prenatal vitamins, like iron or vitamin A as they are harmful to the baby when taken in excess.