Should I take vitamin supplements with food?

Is it important to take vitamin supplements with food? The answer is yes and no. Food helps with the absorption of the vitamins; however, the vitamin supplements may still work, if only to a lesser extent.

It is suggested that vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are fat soluble vitamins, have some sort of fat, animal or vegetable in your stomach to be absorbed properly. The absorption of vitamins B and C don't seem to be affected as much by the amount of food in the stomach, but taking vitamin B without food can cause an stomach upset so it is still recommended to have at least a light meal. On a side note, vitamin B requires an acidic stomach to properly absorb so taking antacids or other acid inhibitors may decrease their absorption.

Certain types of food to eat before taking your supplements may not be as good as others. For instance, milk and spicy foods can make the stomach upset. Taking vitamin supplements with a heavy greasy meal or one high in fiber may actually decrease the benefits that are received since the meal hinders the absorption of the vitamins.

The timing of the day to take vitamins usually is of little importance. It is best to space out the vitamins throughout the day as much as possible in order to get the maximum benefit.

Also, make sure to also read the directions on the label to see if there are any other instructions so that you get the best from your supplements.