Routines are beneficial in so many ways. They keep us on schedule and on task. They make healthy habits a lot easier, which is why so many people turn to a supplement routine to help enhance their wellness.
But starting a supplement routine is easier said than done. The shelves of your supermarket, big box retailer, or health food store are likely packed with products, all promising different things. It’s intimidating, especially if you’re new to supplements in general. These tips will make the process a little smoother.
Talk to your healthcare professional.
First things first! If you’re planning to start a supplement routine, ask your doctor or integrative physician for insight as to what to take and when. They’ll be able to help you narrow down the list so you’re only taking what your body really needs, and suggest the best times of day or product combinations for you. Because certain supplements can interfere with prescriptions, your practitioner can help you decide which supplements are OK to take alongside any existing medication. You can also give them regular updates about your progress in case you need to tweak the routine or try something new.
Read the fine print.
A pretty package is fun, but you need to read the Supplement Facts label and suggested usage to make sure a product is the right fit. The product claims, key ingredients, and dosage should be clearly called out on the label, as should any relevant info about when to take a supplement. This will help you visualize when and how to take the product during your day: in the morning, after meals, or before bed. If it doesn’t feel like a good fit on the shelf, it probably won’t work during your day-to-day-life.
Think about your day-to-day life.
Why do you want to take a supplement? What do you want it to do? If you eat lots of fruit and vegetables already, you probably don’t need so much vitamin C, for example. If you live somewhere cold and dark in the winter, you may want to take a vitamin D supplement. If you’re dealing with low energy and sluggishness, iron may be helpful, and if you have gut issues, a probiotic may be beneficial.
Pay attention to your body.
Do you notice side effects like nausea or upset stomach after taking a certain vitamin, mineral, or supplement? This could be a sign that you need to take that supplement with food or lots of water.
It’s normal to ask, “Can I take vitamins on an empty stomach?” Here’s what to know: Fat-soluble vitamins should be taken with food, while water-soluble vitamins like B-vitamins and vitamin C are best taken on an empty stomach. It’s probably best to take a multivitamin with a meal, whether that’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We recommend taking your liquid iron on an empty stomach or post-meal and make sure you’re not taking it with calcium, as calcium can disrupt absorption.