Is it Harmful to Take Vitamins at Night?

Many people take vitamin supplements, either because a physician has recommended them or because their diets are insufficient to meet their body's nutritional needs. There is not a "best" time to take vitamins, because each vitamin works differently. But here are some general guidelines to help you determine what works for you.

Energy

• Certain vitamins give people an energy boost and help to sustain energy throughout the day. This is particularly true of the Vitamin B group, and so it's recommended to take these vitamins in the morning.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

• Vitamins A, D, E, and K, fish oils, and Coenzyme Q10 work best when taken with fatty foods, as fat helps the body to absorb these vitamins. Therefore, it may benefit you to take these vitamins with lunch, as this meal often has the highest fat content.

Avoiding Caffeine

• Caffeine often hinders absorption of vitamins. Avoid taking vitamins with tea, coffee, or caffeinated sodas. Wait at least an hour after finishing one of these drinks for best results.

Co-workers

• Certain vitamins must be taken together. For example, calcium will not be absorbed by the body without adequate amounts of Vitamin D. Thus, it's best to take these vitamins at the same time to increase absorption.

Minerals and Amino Acids

• Mineral supplements (such as iron, calcium, and magnesium) and amino acid supplements (like tryptophan and lysine) prefer acid-rich stomach environments. It is best to take these supplements without food, or shortly before meals. Additionally, they are absorbed better when taken individually.