Bhakti Paun Sharma
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Bhakti Paun Sharma | Updated : October 21, 2015 4:14 PM IST
Should I take all my supplements at once in the morning after breakfast or at night? Or is it better to take them around meal times? Are supplements like iron and calcium less effective if taken together?
Query answered by Dr Ratan Kumar Vaish, senior consultant, department of medicine, Rockland Group of Hospitals.
There is no restricted time for taking supplements. However, it is important that you stick to a specific time for taking them daily. This way, the body gets attuned for absorbing them and shows better results. Taking supplements at the same time every day also reduces the risk of side effects. This is applicable for all medication and not just supplements. Here s why Indians need to take calcium and Vitamin D supplements daily.
Supplements should not be taken immediately after or before meals. It is a common practice, to take all your medication post breakfast so as to not miss the dosage. However, a gap of at least 2-3 hours must be maintained post meals and taking supplements. If you plan to have them before meals or breakfast, do so an hour before meals. This increases the absorption of all types of supplements in the body. You can replace your vitamin supplements with these foods anytime.
The fact that calcium tends to interfere with the absorption of iron supplements if taken together is a myth. Since people take iron supplements along with calcium after meals or just before meals, it is the food that interferes with the absorption of iron, thereby reducing its effect. Also, iron supplements are best taken in the morning. Other supplements like vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D and others can be taken anytime of the day, except immediately before or after meals.
In conclusion, Dr Vaish suggests that it is important to eat a balanced diet and stay physically active. Supplements may be prescribed to improve the levels of certain mineral or vitamins in the body, but there is nothing better than keeping the nutrients at optimum level through fresh and healthy food. Here is the checklist for a balanced diet.
Image Source: Shutterstock
Calcium and vitamin deficiency can lead to osteoporosis. To know more about this condition, visit our Osteoporosis page section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. For Osteoporosis related queries, visit our forum.
