Multivitamins are a popular and convenient way to support your overall wellbeing, designed to fill in nutritional gaps in your diet. From multivitamins with added probiotics for a healthy gut to A-Zinc tablets formulated for the over-50s, there are so many different types to choose from to achieve your individual health goals - but when is the best time to take them?
In this blog, we explore when you should be taking your multivitamin, whether you should take them on an empty stomach, and explore if they are safe to take during pregnancy and if you are breastfeeding.
Does the time of day affect how multivitamins work?
In short, the time of day you take your multivitamins will not affect how they work. The best time of day to take your multivitamin is when you remember to take it routinely. Taking your multivitamins at the same time each day can help build a healthy routine.
For example, you could choose to take your multivitamin in the morning, making it part of your breakfast routine. Alternatively, you might prefer to take it later in the day after you’ve finished work, taking it after you’ve eaten your evening meal. While there is no one ‘best’ time for everyone, consistency is key. Simply choose a time of the day that fits your daily schedule.
Can you take multivitamins at night?
Generally speaking, taking multivitamins in the evening will not interfere with your sleep if taken correctly, so there’s no reason why you couldn’t take yours at night.
In fact, choosing to take your multivitamins at night might suit you better than if you were to take them earlier in the day. For many people, the mornings can be busy and chaotic, whether you’re getting the kids ready for school or you’re trying to get out the door to head to work. Remembering to take your multivitamin at this time can be a challenge, so why not make it part of your evening routine instead?
Can you take multivitamins on an empty stomach?
The truth is, in order for your multivitamins to be as effective as possible, it’s important that you’re taking them correctly - and whether you take them on an empty stomach or not definitely matters.
Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K, are best taken after you’ve eaten a meal, whereas water-soluble vitamins C and vitamin B12 should be taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water. So, what should you do when taking multivitamins?
Even though multivitamins contain both fat and water-soluble vitamins, it is usually recommended that you take these supplements after you have eaten food. Ideally, you should eat a substantial meal that includes a small amount of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, yoghurts, or a meal cooked with oil. This fat source will ensure maximum absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins in your multivitamin. You can also drink a water-based beverage to wash it down.
Can you take a multivitamin with antibiotics?
If you start a course of antibiotics, it’s important to understand that any other supplements you’re taking may not work well alongside them. It is possible for the multivitamins you take to have an impact on the way your body absorbs your antibiotics, which can impact their efficacy. This will depend on which supplement you take, and which antibiotic you’ve been prescribed.
In this case, you may need to stop taking your multivitamin once you start your medication, or at least adjust the times you take them. You should speak to your doctor if you’re unsure whether you should keep taking your multivitamin alongside your antibiotics.
Can you take a multivitamin while pregnant?
While it is safe to take multivitamins while pregnant, it’s not absolutely necessary. During pregnancy, you’ll get most of the vitamins and minerals you need from eating a healthy, balanced diet. You should also take folic acid and vitamin D supplements.
It’s recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day from as soon as you start trying for a baby, up until you are 12 weeks pregnant. It is important to take folic acid as it can prevent birth defects, including spina bifida - a condition whereby the spine and spinal cord do not properly form.
You should also consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement containing 10 micrograms to help keep bones and muscles healthy. Although most people are able to absorb enough vitamin D from sunlight early April to the end of September, this is not possible between October and March - plus, it can be difficult to get the amount of vitamin D you need from foods, even if they are rich in vitamin D.
It’s important to note that you should avoid taking multivitamins and supplements that contain vitamin A, otherwise known as retinol, as too much of it can cause harm to your baby and their development. You should also avoid liver and other products, such as fish liver oil, as these are also high in vitamin A.
If you have any questions regarding the vitamins you should be taking while pregnant, you should speak to your midwife.
Can you take a multivitamin while breastfeeding?
It is generally considered safe to take a multivitamin while breastfeeding, but like in pregnancy, it is not always necessary. It’s important to stick to a healthy, balanced diet to ensure you’re getting all of the essential nutrients you need.
That being said, it’s a good idea to continue to take a daily vitamin D supplement. If your baby is exclusively breastfed, you should also give them a vitamin D supplement. You should speak to your health visitor for more advice about taking vitamin D while breastfeeding.
By choosing the right time to take your multivitamins, you can help enhance absorption to ensure you're getting the maximum benefit to support your daily health and wellbeing.
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.