The Best Time of Day to Take Your Supplements

Do you ever wonder when the best time of day to take your supplements is? Do you ever wonder if they interact with each other.  The article below will help guide you to dose your supplements at the most optimal times of the day.

Probiotics

Probiotics are most effective when taken at bedtime. This is because gastrointestinal motility decreases at night and therefore the probiotics can hang around in the intestines for a longer period of time which is where their site of action is. If you are taking an antibiotic, make sure you space your probiotic 2 hours away.

Antioxidants

It is best to take antioxidants such as turmeric, resveratrol, glutathione, etc… at bedtime. The reason in the literature is still not very clear but they seem to be more effective when taken at night. If twice a day dosing is called for – take then in the morning and at bedtime.

Fiber

Fibre supplements should be taken at least 2 hours away from any other supplement or medication. This is because the fibre can bind to certain supplements and medications and inhibit their absorption.

Adrenal Stimulants

Adrenal stimulants are best to take before 2 pm. This is because they can increase cortisol and your natural cortisol levels decrease after 2 pm. If taken beyond this time – these supplements can keep you up at night.

Vitamins

Vitamins supplements such as a B-complex should be taken in the morning. Certain B vitamins make you more alert and can keep you up at night if taken later on in the day.

Minerals

Minerals such as magnesium should be taken at bedtime. Certain minerals produce a calming effect and can help with sleep. Please note that they do not cause drowsiness and some people need to take minerals twice a day so morning and night is a good time to take them if you do have to take them twice a day

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive Enzymes are best taken right before a meal. They help to break down and assimilate food more effectively. Iron Supplements – Iron supplements are more highly absorbed when taken with something acidifying (i.e.: Vitamin C supplements or a small amount of freshly squeezed orange juice).

Essential Fats

Essential fats should be taken in between meals on an empty stomach. An emulsified form is best which can help facilitate absorption.

Free Form Amino Acids

Amino acids should be taken in between meals on an empty stomach.

Protein Shakes

Protein shakes can be taken as a meal or with a meal.  They can also be a great snack in between your larger meals.  Try adding some fats like olive oil or avocado oil to your shakes to increase satiety and improve blood sugar stability.

As always, you should check with your doctor or healthcare provider regarding timing of your supplements, under special circumstances this information might change.

Author: Sachin Patel

Sachin founded The Living Proof Institute as part of his own personal transformation. When he couldn’t find answers through conventional medicine he began to explore functional and lifestyle medicine and it dramatically changed his life.

Sachin has delivered hundreds of community workshops and his videos have been viewed by hundreds of thousands of people and his online posts have reached millions all over the world. He is an advocate for changing the healthcare paradigm and has devoted his life for the betterment of humanity.

Sachin leads by example and motivates others to take ownership over their own health. He is a passionate visionary that serves as both a teacher and a guide to help people create their best life and bring out their inner healer.