When to Take Vitamins & With What Food?

You can increase the absorption rate of your vitamins by taking them with certain foods and at certain times. Be sure to start taking your vitamins soon after you buy them and keep an eye on the expiration date. Vitamins lose their potency over time.

Time Frame

You can take your vitamins anytime during the day, but there are certain times when it is best to take them. Caffeine can interfere with your body's ability to absorb nutrients. If you have coffee every morning, don't take your vitamins right after drinking coffee. Instead, take your vitamins at lunch or even at dinner time. If you are taking specific vitamins like B-vitamins for energy during the day, wait at least 1 hour after drinking your coffee before taking them.

Vitamins to Take in the Morning or Mid-Afternoon

If you need your vitamins to get through the day, take them at breakfast as long as you are not consuming caffeine. Vitamins A, K, E, D and B-vitamins are best to take during the day. If you need even more energy for daily life, take iron during the day as well. Spirulina is a super food that contains several vitamins and amino acids. It is a blue-green sea vegetable that can be condensed into pill or powder form and can be taken during the day.

Vitamins to Take at Night

If you are taking vitamins for better sleep, take them right before bed. Vitamins that would fit into this category are melatonin and potassium. Other vitamins that you are taking for strong bones or immune system can be taken at night if they are not needed for energy. Vitamin C and calcium fit into this category, but these vitamins can also be taken during the day.

Fruits and Vegetables

Vitamins work best when they are taken with whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. Taking vitamins with food increases their absorption rate. You will also get a good dose of vitamins directly from these foods.

Milk, Yogurt and Bananas

Take bedtime vitamins with milk, yogurt or a banana. All of these foods contain properties such as potassium and other nutrients that prepare your body for rest. Taking your nighttime vitamins with a glass of milk, which will also help you sleep better.