How Should I Take Supplements?

By: Sarah Knowles BA, MA - Updated: 21 Dec 2010 | *Discuss

 

Supplements need to be taken properly for a variety of reasons. Failure to do so will, at best, result in them being flushed through your body without being properly absorbed. At worst, if you take them with other supplements without checking with a medical professional first, you run the risk of doing your body – and your overall health - actual harm.

Guidelines to Follow

Follow these guidelines to make sure you are getting optimum results from taking supplements:

With or Without Meals?

Most supplements work best when taken with food, as when your body is stimulated by the presence of food it's in the best shape to absorb them. However, this is not the case with all supplements, so make sure you read the label carefully. Ones that are fat-soluble work best when eaten with a meal that includes fat; water-soluble ones pass through the system the quickest so it's advised to take them several times a day. As some interfere with the absorption of others, again, read the label carefully and consult with a medical professional about when is the optimum time to take them.

Calcium and Magnesium: 30 minutes before bedtime

Multiformula Vitamins: Best taken with small amounts of food

Time-release: With primary meal of the day

Iron: With food

Vitamins A, D, E: with food containing oil or fat

Vitamin B-Complex: In morning or with food containing whole grains

How Do I Know I'm Buying The Right Ones?

Brands of dietary supplements all fluctuate, and it's up to you to choose the one that's right for you and your needs. If necessary, you can contact the manufacturer directly and direct your questions to them. The Office of Dietary Supplements recommends asking the following:

All in all, supplements can have good effect – or at least no adverse effects – if taken properly, not in conjunction with other supplements that can interfere with them, and when they are stored correctly. Good luck!

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