Taking vitamins and minerals is an important part of maintaining good health. But it's not enough to just take them - it's also important to know the best way to take them for optimal absorption.
Fat-soluble Vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K are best absorbed when taken with a meal or snack that contains at least one teaspoon of fat (about 5 grams of fat). This is because fat helps the body absorb these vitamins more effectively.Additionally, some nutrients in multivitamins are acidic in nature, such as vitamin C. Taking a multivitamin complex with food can help you avoid stomach discomfort caused by these types of vitamins.
Water-soluble Vitamins
Creating a habit of taking a multivitamin with a specific meal is important for water-soluble vitamins that are not stored in the body. Many multivitamins also contain minerals, so it's important to be aware of any iron content and avoid taking it with certain foods and beverages.It's also important to look for an NSF International seal or the verified USP mark that indicates that the multivitamin was tested for quality and safety.
Individual Minerals and Antioxidant Vitamin Formulas
When taking individual minerals or antioxidant vitamin formulas, such as one that contains beta-carotene and lycopene, it's important to not take them at the same time as a multivitamin supplement. Fat-soluble vitamins should be taken with a snack that contains healthy fats and additional vitamin E for increased absorption. Supplements usually contain calcium and fat-soluble vitamin D, so they should also be taken with food.The Best Way to Take Vitamins and MineralsThe body absorbs some of its vitamins better with food, so it's best to take them with a meal or snack. To get the recommended daily amount of vitamins and minerals, it's best to get them from whole foods. When it comes to supplements, it's important to choose the right dosage, as well as how and with what to take the vitamin. Taking a multivitamin with food increases stomach acid which improves digestion of the supplement.
Learn more about how to take vitamin D, the best way to take it, and the best time of day to take it. In conclusion, taking vitamins and minerals is an important part of maintaining good health. To ensure proper absorption, it's important to drink fluids and eat a snack or meal before taking the multivitamin. Additionally, fat-soluble vitamins should be taken with a meal or snack that contains at least one teaspoon of fat (about 5 grams of fat).
Water-soluble vitamins should be taken with a specific meal every day, while individual minerals or antioxidant vitamin formulas should not be taken at the same time as a multivitamin supplement. Finally, supplements usually contain calcium and fat-soluble vitamin D, so they should also be taken with food.
