When Should I Take My Supplements?

23 Aug 2008

One of the most common themes for questions asked through the Just Vitamins Nutrition Advice line is related to getting the maximum benefit from a supplement, and more specifically “when in the day should I take my supplement?”

TOP TIPS
Unless specifically stated otherwise on your supplement, here are some general points of guidance for supplement-taking.

•	Supplements should be taken with water
•	Supplements should be taken with food (except for amino acids, when you should leave a 2 hour break).
•	Take mineral supplements after your evening meal as the body’s bio-absorption efficiency is best at night
•	Find a routine that suits you. Maybe with your breakfast at home or your mid morning break at work. You may want to leave some supplements at work and at home, so you don’t forget at weekends.
•	For maximum absorption spread the dosage throughout the day. Don’t break tablets up, but if you have to take four capsules of one supplement, then you could take two earlier in the day, then two later on.
•	If you miss taking your supplement, or miss a whole day, then don’t try to ‘catch up’ by taking a bunch in one go. Just stick to your daily routine and continue on as usual. You will undoubtedly do more harm than good by taking too many at once.

TO BE AVOIDED

•	Never take herbs with prescribed or ‘over the counter’ drugs, speak to your doctor first or the technical advice line of the company who is supplying the supplements
•	Follow the recommended intake advice on the label
•	Prescribed medication and supplements, especially herbs should not be taken together
•	Some citrus fruits (particularly grapefruit) can affect the way that your body uses certain nutrients. Avoid taking supplements with fruit (including fruit juice drinks).
•	If you have any doubts about the supplement you are taking, stop and seek technical advice from your GP or another reputable source

FREE NUTRITION ADVICE
Call the Just Vitamins FREE Nutrition Advice line on 024 7669 5115 if you would like further advice. Our advisors are available Monday - Thursday, 9am - 4pm

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY SUPPLEMENTS?