DEAR DR. GOTT: It is definitely better for some vitamins and minerals to be taken with food at mealtimes, but other food supplements must be taken on an empty stomach. You can also take smaller amounts of some vitamins and minerals between meals, with water, and get a bigger punch from them. For me, it’s better to take mineral capsules, tablets or powders with lunch or supper than it is for breakfast, when my stomach enzymes aren’t strong enough to digest them well. The minerals give me a stomachache. Also, never take a multi-B vitamin before bedtime or you won’t get to sleep. See, it all depends!
DEAR READER: You certainly appear to have done your homework. I could not find confirmation for some of your claims, such as multi-B at bedtime causing insomnia; however, each of us responds differently to medication, even over-the-counters. Remember that vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients, but the body typically only requires small amounts of them. Readers should speak with their physicians before beginning a regimen, because a well-balanced, nutritious diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables will likely be all that is required to maintain good health.
Furthermore, read labels to determine whether a medication or supplement should be taken with food or without, or in the morning or at bedtime.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Vitamins and Minerals.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order made payable to Newsletter, and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
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