From the Research
The best time to take a multivitamin is generally in the morning with breakfast, as this allows for better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and reduces potential stomach irritation. Taking your multivitamin with food is recommended because many vitamins are fat-soluble (including vitamins A, D, E, and K), which means they're better absorbed when consumed with dietary fats 1.
Key Considerations
- Consistency is more important than the specific time—establishing a regular routine helps ensure you don't forget your daily dose.
- Some multivitamins contain B vitamins which can be energizing, making morning an ideal time, while others may contain minerals like magnesium that have calming effects and might be better taken in the evening.
- If your multivitamin contains iron, avoid taking it with calcium-rich foods or coffee, as these can interfere with iron absorption 2.
- Always follow the specific directions on your multivitamin's packaging, as formulations vary.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) concludes that the evidence is insufficient to determine the balance of benefits and harms of supplementation with multivitamins for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or cancer 1. However, they recommend against the use of beta carotene or vitamin E supplements for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or cancer.
Special Considerations
For specific populations, such as the elderly, micronutrient supplementation may be beneficial, and a daily special micronutrient supplementation has been suggested by a special committee nominated by the Ministry of Health 3. However, the optimal timing for taking a multivitamin in these populations may vary, and individual considerations should be taken into account.
Final Recommendation
In general, taking a multivitamin in the morning with breakfast is a reasonable approach, but it's essential to consider individual factors, such as the specific formulation of the multivitamin and potential interactions with other medications or foods. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on taking multivitamins and other supplements 4, 5.