Supplements are becoming increasingly popular, with almost four out of five Americans
consuming them daily. They hope they will help with various ailments, from brittle bones to
insomnia to stress.
Now, leading experts have revealed the best time of day to take pills to maximize their helpful
benefits.
The best time of day for vitamin C is following breakfast, said Dr. Vishakha Shivdasani and
nutritionist Suman Agarwal. This is because vitamin C is stimulating if taken too late in the day
and could make it more difficult to sleep at night.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for general health, found in tomatoes, citrus fruits, and
potatoes. However, some experts have questioned whether it is needed in supplement form.
The body requires vitamin C to form cartilage, collagen, blood vessels, and muscle. It
additionally helps to support immune health and protect cells against illness.
Omega-3s, like in fish oil, should be taken after lunch. Taking the supplement along with food
could enhance absorption and reduce unpleasant side effects like burping, upset stomach, and
heartburn.
Omega-3 fatty acids are ‘healthy fats’ that may help support heart health. They could also help
lower triglyceride levels. Too many triglycerides, a type of fat located in the blood, heightens the
risk of stroke and heart disease.
On the other hand, iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach because food reduces its
absorption. Experts advise taking it either two hours after or one hour before a meal.
People commonly take iron to prevent and treat anemia caused by low iron levels.
Agarwal and Shivdasani said it is best to take a B-complex vitamin in the first half of the day. A
B-complex vitamin is a product made up of eight vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and
B12.
The vitamin is thought to assist with things like appetite, energy, and hormone production.
Because of their role in energy production and nutrient metabolism, it is recommended that they
be consumed in the morning to get the most benefit.
Magnesium has recently been touted as the secret to solid muscles and restful sleep. For better
relaxation and sleep, it is best to take it 15 minutes before bedtime.

To get the most benefit from calcium, it is best taken along with food, particularly foods high in
vitamin D, like oranges, milk, mushrooms, and sardines.
This is because foods help calcium to be absorbed effectively.