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When is the best time of day to take your vitamins?

By Shereen Jegtvig, About.com

Updated February 12, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Vitamins can be taken any time of day.

Vitamins can be taken any time of day.

Photo by Naama y.m.
Question: When is the best time of day to take your vitamins?
Answer: The best time of day to take vitamins is probably when it is most convenient for you. Set up a routine time so that you remember to take your vitamins every day. Read the labels of your vitamins. Many vitamins need to be taken in divided doses. If that is the case, spread your vitamin doses throughout the day.

Most vitamins can be taken with food so before or after a meal is fine. Again, make sure you read the label on the vitamin bottle. It should tell you if the supplement needs to be taken on an empty stomach.

Here are some other vitamin and mineral supplement tips:

  • Calcium carbonate should be taken right after a meal
  • Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach
  • B complex vitamins can be taken with food if the B complex vitamins make you feel queasy
  • Don't take vitamins with alcohol

More about Vitamins:
Optimum Time to Take Vitamins
Vitamins With Food or on Empty Stomach?

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