Certain vitamins need to be taken with food to prevent an upset stomach, while others do not really matter as much. If you take certain medications, you may need to take your vitamins separately to avoid possible interactions. It may even be beneficial for you to take certain vitamins at night if they make you feel nauseous. Ask your doctor for specific instructions when it comes to taking vitamins with other medications or if they seem to be especially bothersome or you develop sensitivity. Do not take any vitamin supplements without physician approval.
Vitamins After Meals
Certain vitamin supplements, such as calcium, vitamin B-6, vitamin C and vitamin A, should be taken after a meal. These vitamins are best when absorbed along with dietary fat, which is why they need to be taken either during or after meals. These particular vitamins need to be taken within 2 hours after eating, according to MedlinePlus. Taking vitamins 2 hours after meals can also help prevent certain vitamins, such as vitamin C, from breaking down other nutrients such as vitamin B-12, iron and nitrates.
Vitamins Before Meals
Some supplements can be taken without food, such as vitamin B-complex and iron. These vitamins do not require dietary fat for absorption and may work best when taken on an empty stomach. Certain supplements, such as iron, can interact with some substances and drinks such as milk and antacids; this makes it extremely important to take these supplements on an empty stomach. If you get hungry after taking them, you can eat after 30 minutes from the time you took them, according to Drugs.com.
Other Precautions
While some vitamin supplements can be taken 30 minutes prior to eating and others are best when taken with or after a meal, it's important you do not take other medications within at least 2 hours. Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can prevent your body from absorbing certain vitamins, such as iron. The possibility of other interactions is less likely to occur after 2 hours of taking a medication or other supplement.
Considerations
If your vitamins upset your stomach, it may be better to take them with a small snack or right before bed. Sometimes vitamin supplements can make you feel nauseous; ask your doctor if you're taking the correct dose. Always follow all doctor or product label instructions before taking any supplements.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin A (Retinol); Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid); March 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B-6 (Pryidoxine); Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- Drugs.com: Calcium Supplements; Aug. 2011
- Drugs.com: Iron Deficiency Anemia; Aug. 2011
- Drugs.com: Vitamin B-Complex/Vitamin C/ Biotin/Vitamin E/Folic Acid/Zinc; Aug. 2011
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