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When Is the Best Time to Take Vitamins, Minerals and Other Supplements?

The AHA! Team — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:24:47 +0000

Joe Boland via Dr. Axe – When is the best time to take vitamins: morning or night? The timing of supplements can influence their absorption and effectiveness. Taking vitamins and supplements is a great way to support overall health, but timing matters when it comes to maximizing their benefits. Utilizing supplements at the right time can enhance their absorption and effectiveness, which begs the question: When is the best time to take vitamins and other supplements? While some vitamins and minerals work best when taken with food, others are better absorbed on an empty stomach. In addition, certain combinations can enhance or inhibit absorption, making it crucial to plan your intake accordingly. Understanding when to take supplements can help optimize their benefits. This guide, supported by scientific research, will help you determine the best time to take vitamins for maximum impact. When is the best time to take vitamins: morning or night? The timing of supplements can influence their absorption and effectiveness. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and B vitamins, can provide an energy boost, making them ideal for the morning. Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K, are best taken with meals for improved absorption, particularly meals with healthy fats, such as coconut oil, eggs, avocado, etc. On the other hand, some minerals, like magnesium, have a calming effect and may be better suited for nighttime use. While many people take their vitamins in the morning out of habit, the best time depends on the type of vitamin and how your body absorbs it. However, whenever you find is best for you, whether out of routine or for how you’ve found your body best responds, is the best time to take vitamins and other supplements. In fact, studies have relayed that taking vitamins consistently at the same time each day helps with adherence and absorption. Best time to take water-soluble vitamins Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and B-complex vitamins (including B12, B6 and folate), dissolve in water and are best taken on an empty stomach for maximum absorption. They dissolve in water and are not stored in the body, requiring regular intake. Vitamin C Vitamin C is best taken in the morning or midday on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. It’s a good idea to use your vitamin C early in the day to support immune function and reduce fatigue. Sunlight and other factors can lead to oxidation of vitamin C, which could lower its effectiveness. That’s why it’s recommended to take it early and store it in a cool, dark place. Ingesting probiotics with vitamin C can also lead to better absorption. B vitamins Research has shown that B vitamins help convert food into energy, making them most effective when taken in the morning. Since they play a role in energy production, they are best taken early to avoid sleep disturbances. You can take B vitamins with food, but it’s not necessary. It’s a good idea to take them with water or your morning beverage of choice. Taking B vitamins together, such as in a B-complex supplement, is ideal, as they work better together. Using them in combination with probiotics can also enhance their absorption. B-complex vitamins include: Vitamin B1/thiamine Vitamin B2/riboflavin Vitamin B3/niacin Vitamin B5/pantothenic acid Vitamin B6/pyridoxine Vitamin B7/biotin Vitamin B9/folate (folic acid) Vitamin B12/cobalamin The best time to take vitamins that are water-soluble is typically considered early and on an empty stomach, but you can take them any time of day that works for you. They also can be taken with or without food, along with water or your drink of choice. Best time to take fat-soluble vitamins Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) are stored in the body’s fat tissues and liver. These vitamins require dietary fat for optimal absorption, making them most effective when taken with a meal containing healthy fats. To maximize benefits, take fat-soluble vitamins with breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here’s more on when is the best time to take vitamins that are fat-soluble: Vitamin D Studies have indicated that taking vitamin D with a meal containing fat increases its bioavailability. For example, a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that vitamin D absorption improved significantly when taken with a fat-containing meal. Doubling up by pairing vitamin D and vitamin K is a good idea, as vitamin K helps your body absorb more vitamin D. The best time to take vitamins D and K together is typically thought to be in the morning or afternoon, when the sun is out, since sunlight is the main way humans obtain vitamin D. Vitamin A Vitamin A is best taken with meals that contain healthy fats like olive oil, avocado or nuts to optimize absorption. It can be taken any time of time, and it’s a good idea to take it with the same meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner) every day if possible. Vitamin E Research has shown consuming vitamin E with healthy fats can boost its absorption greatly, so the best time to take vitamins like E is mealtime, whether that’s morning, noon or night. Vitamin K As mentioned, the best time to take vitamins that are fat-soluble are mealtimes, but vitamin K is a bit unique compared to other fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin K stands out due to its three distinct forms: phylloquinone (vitamin K1), menaquinones (vitamin K2) and menadione (vitamin K3). K1 and K2 are found in foods (K1 in leafy greens, K2 in some animal foods) and often included in supplements, while K3 is rarely found in either. Both K1 and K2 can be taken at any time of day, but K2 supplements are best absorbed when paired with a meal or snack containing fat. For optimal results, try to take vitamin K separately from vitamins A and E, as they may interfere with each other’s absorption. On the other hand, combining vitamin K with vitamin D can be beneficial, as they work together to maintain healthy calcium levels and support strong bones. Best time to take multivitamins Multivitamins contain a mix of water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, making their timing slightly tricky. The best approach is to take them with a meal containing some fat to aid in fat-soluble vitamin absorption while ensuring water-soluble vitamins are utilized effectively. Multivitamins contain a combination of vitamins and minerals, some of which require fat for absorption while others do not. Because they often include B vitamins, which can boost energy, it is generally best to take multivitamins in the morning with food. Iron or magnesium However, if a multivitamin contains iron or magnesium, taking it later in the day may be preferable to avoid potential stomach discomfort. Research does suggest that taking multivitamins in the morning with breakfast improves compliance and absorption. Whether you opt for morning or night, consistency is key, so try to take your multivitamin at the same time each day if you can. Best time to take prenatal vitamins Prenatal vitamins are crucial for maternal and fetal health, often containing iron, folic acid and DHA, which are crucial for fetal development. Research has found that taking prenatal vitamins with food can reduce nausea, a common concern for pregnant individuals. Because iron absorption is optimized on an empty stomach but can also cause discomfort, taking prenatal vitamins with a light meal, such as breakfast, is recommended. Pregnant women can be prone to having sensitive stomachs during the morning, though, so some may prefer to take prenatal vitamins with dinner before bed. Here is a bit more on some prenatal vitamins to consume and the best time to take vitamins for pregnancy: Folic acid: Best taken in the morning on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. Iron: Should be taken separately from calcium-containing foods or supplements, as calcium inhibits iron absorption. DHA (omega-3s): Best absorbed with a meal containing healthy fats. It’s best to take prenatal vitamins at the same time every day for consistency’s sake. Best time to take minerals and other supplements When is the best time to take vitamins, minerals and other supplements not specified above? Here are some recommendations: Iron is absorbed best on an empty stomach but can cause stomach irritation. It’s best taken in the morning on an empty stomach with vitamin C for enhanced absorption, but it should not be taken with calcium or caffeine, which can make it harder to absorb. Ideally consume iron one to two hours before or after a meal. Known for its muscle-relaxing and sleep-promoting effects, magnesium may be best taken at night. You can also take magnesium in the morning with food or split into two doses divided between morning and night. More specifically, magnesium glycinate and magnesium threonate are better to take in the morning since they aid energy levels, while magnesium oxide and magnesium chloride may be best to take at night since they promote sleep. If consuming high doses (more than 500 mg) of calcium, split intake into multiple doses for better absorption. Similarly to iron, zinc should be taken one to two hours before or after eating a meal, and you can ingest it with or without water. You should not take it with fiber, calcium or iron, which can interfere with absorption. What vitamins should not be taken together? Certain vitamins and minerals can interfere with each other’s absorption: Calcium and iron: Compete for absorption. Take iron supplements separately from high-calcium meals or supplements. Zinc and copper: High doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption. If supplementing both, take them at different times. Vitamin C and B12: Some research has suggested that high doses of vitamin C may reduce B12 absorption when taken together. Consider spacing them apart. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): Avoid taking high doses together, as they may compete for absorption. Vitamin C and iron: Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, but taking excessive amounts together may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. It is best to consume them in moderate amounts. Calcium and magnesium: These minerals compete for absorption, so taking them together in high doses may reduce their effectiveness. Consider spacing them apart. Zinc and magnesium: High doses of zinc can interfere with magnesium absorption. To optimize benefits, take them at different times of the day. Conclusion Taking vitamins and supplements at the right time can enhance their effectiveness. To maximize the benefits of vitamins and supplements, it’s essential to take them when they can be utilized best and with the right combinations. Water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B-complex vitamins are best taken in the morning on an empty stomach, while fat-soluble vitamins should be taken with meals. Minerals like magnesium and iron have specific timing requirements for optimal absorption. For instance, magnesium may work better at night, and some nutrients should be spaced apart to prevent absorption interference. However, consistency appears to be the most important factor, so really the best time to take vitamins, minerals and other supplements is whenever you can on a consistent basis. Following a well-planned schedule based on research-backed guidelines can help you get the most out of your supplements. By aligning your supplement intake with your body’s needs, you can maximize their health benefits. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your supplement routine. To read the original article click here.

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Beriberi Plague Millions in East Asia – Until One Man Discovered it was a Vitamin Deficiency

The AHA! Team — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:34:35 +0000

Arsenio Toledo via Natural News – Beriberi, or thiamine deficiency, used to be a disease that was endemic to many parts of the world, including Japan – until a Japanese naval physician discovered that the simple solution was a change in diet and an increase in the natural intake of vitamins. Beriberi used to be so prevalent all over East Asia that up to 40 percent of the Imperial Japanese Navy by the late 19th century was affected by it. Japanese naval physician Takaki Kanehiro became one of the first people in the world to discover that beriberi was linked to diet, specifically the Navy’s reliance on rice. Takaki proposed a change in diet to include more protein-rich foods, and this change successfully eliminated the disease within the Navy in just two years. Takaki’s work not only improved the health of Japanese sailors but also improved its military strength and advanced global understanding of nutritional diseases and epidemiology. Beriberi, or thiamine deficiency, used to be a disease that was endemic to many parts of the world, including Japan – until a Japanese naval physician discovered that the simple solution was a change in diet and an increase in the natural intake of vitamins. This is according to research from the 1962 book “The Vitamin Hunters” by Albert von Haller, which chronicles how many endemic diseases like beriberi, scurvy, pellagra and rickets were nearly wiped from existence following the knowledge that they were caused by vitamin deficiencies. The man responsible for helping solve the global problem of thiamine deficiency is Takaki Kanehiro, a Japanese naval medical officer who discovered the cure to beriberi around 10 years before Dutch physician Christiaan Eijkman won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his work in identifying that beriberi was caused by a nutritional deficiency, namely the lack of thiamine or vitamin B1. (Related: B vitamins are CRUCIAL to heart health, brain health and eye health.) Beriberi, characterized by symptoms such as paralysis, heart weakness and swelling of the liver, was widespread in Japan and all-over East Asia during the 19th century. In the Imperial Japanese Navy, the disease reached epidemic proportions, with up to 40 percent of sailors affected. The illness severely compromised the Navy’s operational capacity, as many recovered sailors were left unfit for service. Takaki, who joined the Navy as a medical officer in 1872, observed the devastating impact of beriberi firsthand. At the time, the disease was widely believed to be caused by an infectious agent, a theory influenced by the recent discoveries of Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch. Takaki initially sought to identify the presumed bacillus but found no evidence to support this hypothesis. A change in diet was all it took to rid the Imperial Japanese Navy of its beriberi epidemic Takaki’s breakthrough came when he hypothesized that beriberi was linked to the sailors’ diet, particularly their reliance on polished rice. He noted that officers, who consumed a more varied diet were less affected than regular rank-and-file sailors who primarily consumed rice. Takaki proposed that the disease was caused by a deficiency of nitrogenous elements like protein in the diet – a theory that contradicted prevailing medical beliefs. To test his hypothesis, Takaki conducted a controlled experiment in 1884 using two naval vessels. One ship maintained the traditional rice-based diet, while the other was provisioned with a protein-rich diet similar to that of British sailors. The results were striking: On the control ship, over two-thirds of the crew developed beriberi, while on the other ship, only four cases were reported and all among sailors who had secretly consumed more rice than proteins. Takaki’s findings led to a radical overhaul of the Imperial Japanese Navy’s dietary provisions. By 1885, the new diet had been adopted across the fleet, and after just two years the Navy had effectively eradicated the disease from its ranks. This achievement not only improved the health and morale of sailors but also strengthened Japan’s military capabilities, contributing to its victory in the Russo-Japanese War in 1904. Takaki’s work extended beyond his research on beriberi. He founded the Sei-I-Kwai Medical Training School in 1881 and pioneered an emphasis on patient-centered care in Japan. He also established the country’s first nursing school and created a charitable hospital to serve the poor, which still stands today as the Jikei University School of Medicine in Minato, Tokyo. In recognition of his contributions, Takaki was appointed Navy Surgeon General in 1885 and became the first person in Japan to receive a Doctor of Medical Science degree in 1888. He was elevated to the imperial peerage in 1905 and awarded Japan’s highest honors, including the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure and the Order of the Rising Sun. Kanehiro Takaki’s pioneering work on beriberi marked a turning point in the understanding of nutritional diseases. By demonstrating the link between diet and health, he not only solved a critical problem for the Japanese Navy but also advanced the field of epidemiology. His legacy continues to influence medical education and healthcare in Japan, underscoring the importance of empirical research and patient-centered care. Sources include: Brighteon.ai Journals.SagePub.com Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here

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The 411 on Vitamin B12

The AHA! Team — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 09:11:30 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – We cannot mess around with getting vitamin B12. If we don’t get enough, we may face a wide range of disorders of the gut, blood, brain, and nervous system. Vitamin B12 is not made by plants or animals, but by microbes blanketing the earth. We presumably used to get B12 when we drank out of a mountain stream or sipped water from a well, based on studies showing vegetarians in developing countries who drink purified water appear to be at higher risk. Now, we typically chlorinate our water supply to kill off any bacteria. So, most of us don’t get a lot of B12 in our water anymore, but we don’t get a lot of cholera, either. That’s a benefit of living in a much more sanitary world. Vegetarians living in slums in lesser developed regions appear to have fewer B12 problems, though. Basically, the more hygienic our meals, the less B12 we get. Our fellow great apes, like gorillas, get all the B12 they need eating their own feces. I prefer supplements. So, how much should we get, which type is best, and how can we tell if we have a B12 deficiency? The Benefits of Vitamin B12 We cannot mess around with getting vitamin B12. If we don’t get enough, we may face a wide range of disorders of the gut, blood, brain, and nervous system. Many case reports detail ways B12 can be life-changing. For instance, a 47-year-old woman had a five-year history of psychosis. She had been treated with antipsychotic drugs and was cognitively impaired and reported visual hallucinations. After her mother revealed that the patient had been following a strict vegan diet for seven years, vitamin B12 supplementation was started, and her symptoms went away. She had lost years of her life lost in a psychotic haze—apparently just because she didn’t want to take a supplement. Vitamin B12 supplementation is mandatory for anyone eating plant-based diets and, as I’ll discuss later, for every one of us from age 65. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Symptoms and Treatment As I discuss in my video The Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency, it can cause everything from abdominal distention and chronic diarrhea to shortness of breath and swollen, red, painful feet. It can also cause Parkinson’s syndrome–like symptoms, skin darkening (that resolved with supplementation), and bilateral useless hand syndrome, a condition I had never heard of before. Being deficient in B12 may also manifest in a variety of neurological symptoms—for example, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, muscle cramps, dizziness, cognitive disturbances, difficulty walking, and erectile dysfunction—as well as fatigue and such psychiatric symptoms as depression along with psychosis. How can B12 deficiency be treated? Either with B12 supplements or B12-fortified foods. Suggested Vitamin B12 Dosage The ofﬁcial position of associations and governmental agencies is categorical and unequivocal: Supplementation of vitamin B12 is required for anyone on a vegetarian diet—even when consuming eggs and dairy—and I would extend that to include flexitarians eating only a few servings of meat a week. Who else should ensure they have a regular, reliable source of vitamin B12 by supplementing their diet with B12 supplements or B12-fortified foods? Those who’ve had bariatric surgery (which can sometimes impair absorption), those eating plant-based diets, and everyone from the age of 65. As I discuss in my video The Optimal Vitamin B12 Dosage for Adults, adults younger than 65 should take at least one 2,000 mcg (µg) supplement once a week, ideally as a chewable, sublingual, or liquid supplement taken on an empty stomach, or at least one 50 mcg (µg) daily supplement. As we age, our ability to absorb vitamin B12 may decline. So, for those 65 and older, the supplementation should probably be increased up to 1,000 mcg (µg) each day, as I discuss in my video The Optimal Vitamin B12 Dosage for Kids, Pregnancy, and Seniors. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can just follow my 50 mcg (µg) a day recommendation for nonpregnant adults or take 2,000 mcg (µg) a week, perhaps split into two doses to boost absorption. After infants are weaned, they can start on 5 mcg (µg) a day. From ages 4 through 10, kids can take half the adult dose of 25 mcg (µg) a day, then they can take 50 mcg (µg) a day or 2,000 mcg (µg) a week from age 11. Note that these doses are specific to cyanocobalamin, the preferred supplemental form of vitamin B12. (I discuss cyanocobalamin versus methylcobalamin below.) The Best Food Sources of Vitamin B12 If you need supplemental B12 but don’t want to take supplements, you must rely on B12-fortified foods––eating three separate servings of B12-fortified foods a day, each ideally containing at least 190 percent of the “Daily Value” on the product’s nutrition facts label. As I discuss in my video The Healthiest Food Sources of Vitamin B12, B12-fortified nutritional yeast is a common food source, and there are all sorts of other B12-fortified options on the market, including plant-based meats and milks, breakfast cereals, and even energy drinks. The Worst Food Sources of Vitamin B12 What about various algae-type products, like spirulina, which are advertised as natural vitamin B12 sources? Not only do they not actually contain B12 that’s useable for humans, they may contain B12 analogues—look-alike molecules that can even block your absorption of real B12! Can Vitamin B12 Cause Side Effects? You don’t have to worry about taking too much vitamin B12. It’s water-soluble. So, at worst, you’ll just end up with more expensive pee. Injectable forms, though, can trigger acne. Methylcobalamin vs. Cyanocobalamin There are two main types of vitamin B12: methylcobalamin, marketed as methyl B12, and cyanocobalamin, typically marketed as just vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin is more expensive so it must be better, right? Wrong. As I discuss in my video The Best Type of Vitamin B12: Cyanocobalamin or Methylcobalamin, cyanocobalamin is the most used form, thanks to its high stability. Methylcobalamin is less stable and particularly susceptible to being destroyed after exposure to light. The one major exception may be kidney failure, though. Methylcobalamin may be better for those with impaired kidney function. It’s been speculated that oral methylcobalamin or injected hydroxycobalamin may also be preferable in smokers, though it has yet to be conﬁrmed. To read the original article click here.

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10 Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements. Buyer Beware

The AHA! Team — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:44:16 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – For many people, supplements are a necessary addition to a healthy diet. They can deliver key nutrients, even in therapeutic amounts, to support whole-body and system-specific health. For example, most people have a very difficult time getting enough omega-3 fats for a healthy omega-6 to omega-3 ratio without supplements. But, this doesn’t mean you should blindly buy any supplement. Buyer beware: There are often dangerous ingredients in supplements. Sometimes, the dangerous ingredients are easy to spot. Other times, they are listed within words or other ingredients that make them difficult to identify. Or, they are hidden additives you’d never suspect. Luckily, you’ve got a trusted source of supplements in Divine Health. Divine Health supplements never contain these dangerous ingredients, are safe and effective, and are formulated to contain the most beneficial nutrients in highly absorbable forms without extra additives you don’t need. No matter what you’re buying, it’s vital to buy from a source you can trust, and always check the ingredient list. Here’s our guide, and a list of 10 dangerous ingredients in supplements you should avoid. Supplement Claims, Confusion, and Data Like most food packaging, supplements often have confusing labels. On the front, you’ll find marketing. Unless it’s a strict health claim, it’s not well regulated. As the consumer, it’s up to you to investigate beyond these claims. To start, follow the #1 rule for food packaging: Ignore everything you read on the front side of the packaging. It’s marketing. Some marketing is truthful. Some isn’t. Then, go to the ingredients list. Although there is still some ambiguity here, it’s your best place for finding dangerous ingredients in supplements since they are typically additives and thickening agents rather than nutrients. This is very important data. Next, look at the nutrition label. Nutrition labels on supplements can be a bit different than those on foods. On food labels, the nutrition label shows you the macro- and micro-nutrients in the foods, but not the ingredients themselves. However, on supplement nutrition labels, the nutrients are the ingredients. Therefore, you will often find both ingredients (listed as micronutrients) and their amounts, on the nutrition label. This is also important data. How Can Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements Cause Harm? There are a few ways dangerous ingredients can cause harm. These include: Ingredients that cause direct harm or inflammation to the digestive system. Here’s one example of a common over-the-counter medication that causes this type of harm. Ingredients that are suspected carcinogens. Some ingredients in supplements, medications, and manufactured foods are suspected to cause cellular changes, overgrowth, and potentially carcinogenic activity. Ingredients that are not listed, but can be contained within other ingredients, and potentially cause harm. For example, some natural substances contain very high levels of lead or mercury. It’s vital to buy your supplements from a trustworthy source that has been tested for toxins. Ingredients that do not contain as much of a nutrient as they claim, or more of a nutrient than they claim. While this doesn’t seem like a direct harm, if you believe you’re getting 2000 IU of Vitamin D, but are actually only getting 200 IU, or are getting 20,000 IU unknowingly, there is potential for harm. Furthermore, if the nutrient is in a form that’s not absorbable to the human body, you may think you’re getting a healthy supplement, but in reality you’re throwing money away. As you consider this, here are 10 dangerous ingredients in supplements to avoid. 10 Dangerous Ingredients in Supplements Soybean Oil: As we’ve discussed at length, soybean oil is a potent source of processed omega-6 fats. Omega-6 oils actually work against omega-3 oils, and are associated with declines in metabolic health, cardiovascular health, and increased inflammation (1, 2, 3). Aspartame and Saccharin: Man-made artificial sweeteners have been widely used in “diet foods” and “health foods.” Unfortunately, they can have negative effects on gut bacteria. In fact, animal and human studies have shown that aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, and other artificial sweeteners can impair gut bacteria (4). In fact, there is documentation of (5): Saccharin reducing healthy bacteria growth by 40% Sucralose decreasing bacteria by more than 2-fold Aspartame increasing the number of harmful bacteria by 10% Other sugar substitutes, such as the sugar alcohol xylitol, does not seem to affect gut bacteria (6). A good supplement should promote health in your body, including your gut. Fake Flavorings and Colorings: Food dyes are not benign and have no place in a healthy supplement. Several studies have found that food dyes exacerbate hyperactivity in sensitive children (7). While you may be an adult, this finding confirms that food dyes make their way into our systems and can affect our bodies. What’s more, Red 3 is a dye that was banned in the 1990s, and then had the ban retracted. Lab studies have shown tumor concerns with Red 3, and many people anecdotal report intolerances for it (8,9). Titanium Dioxide: Titanium Dioxide is a toxic additive is a colorant used to make tablets and capsules bright white and is typically used in paint, cosmetics, paper, and sunscreen. This filler has no nutritional value and can actually cause inflammation in the respiratory, digestive, and immune systems (10). Sodium Benzoate: Sodium Benzoate is used to prolong the life of supplements. This preservative may become a carcinogen substance known as benzene when mixed with vitamin C (11). Ingesting foods or beverages containing that lead to high levels of systemic benzene can cause issues such as stomach irritation, tiredness, dizziness, and even vomiting and convulsions (12). Moreover, sodium benzoate itself has been linked with migraines (13), and it can increase oxidative stress in the body (14). Sodium Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Cornstarch: Unless it says differently on the label, these ingredients are typically made from genetically modified (GMO) corn. GMO corn is heavily exposed to harmful pesticides which are linked tonegative impacts on human health (15,16,17). Potassium Sorbate: Potassium Sorbate is another additive used to preserve food and supplements. It may lead to migraines and allergic reactions in sensitive people. Sulfites: Sulfites can be especially harmful for those who suffer from asthma, causing an increase in symptoms. They may also cause migraines when consumed (18). Carrageenan: Carrageenan is a natural thickening agent found in many foods and supplements. Unfortunately, it has been linked to blood glucose issues (19), and harmful gastrointestinal effects (20). Added and Hidden Sugars: Supplements that are in a liquid, powdered, chewable, or gummy form often have added or hidden sugars. These sugars can cause blood glucose issues in some people, and if you’re in the Keto Zone, they can kick you right out. What’s more, many of these sugars will be in liquid or gel form, such as high fructose corn syrup, rice syrup, or cane sugar syrup, and travel through the digestive system and into the bloodstream quickly. High sugar intake is linked to poor health, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and more. It’s associated with brain aging, and may even be linked to degenerative diseases (21). Let’s keep sugar out of healthy supplements! Bottom Line It’s important to find supplements you can trust. If you haven’t already, take a look at Divine Health’s amazing line-up of supplements including Brain Zone, Nano-Particle Hemp Oil, Carb Assist, and more. And we invite you: Take a hard look at the ingredients. You won’t find harmful colorings, chemicals, additives, or fillers. You’ll only find what’s necessary and industry-best ingredients. You can always trust Divine Health supplements. Buyer beware: Always check for dangerous ingredients in your supplements! To read the original article click here.

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Top 10 Reasons to Take a Daily Multivitamin

AHA Publisher — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:00:29 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Are you one of the millions of Americans who take a daily multivitamin? Or, are you someone who thinks they are a waste of money? Beyond deciding whether or not to take one, there’s also the issue of quality. Not all multivitamin are created equal. Here are 10 reasons to consider a daily multivitamin and what sets the best multivitamin apart from others. 10 Top Reasons to Take a Daily Multivitamin 1. Current Food Supply and Crops We’d all love to believe our food supply is as healthy as ever. However, much of the soil in our country (and others) has been stripped of nutrients levels after years of conventional farming. While the push for organic farming and more sustainable methods has been great, our crops can still be lower in nutrients than we’d like. A daily multivitamin can make up for some of these deficiencies. 2. Weight Loss Plans Almost anytime you’re trying to lose weight, you reduce the amount, or types of foods you consume. And while this can be very healthy, you may miss out on key nutrients. For example, if you cut out dairy, you may not get quite enough Vitamin D3 through the foods you choose. Or, if you cut out red meats, you may lack adequate heme-iron levels. A daily multivitamin can bridge the gap so that you can choose healthy foods that help you meet your weight goals while getting in enough micronutrients. 3. Healthy Aging As we age, our cellular nutritional needs actually increase because many body systems have to work harder to maintain health despite aging tissues (1). Unfortunately, it becomes more difficult for our bodies to absorb needed nutrients. In addition, medications can further deplete our body of nutrients and/or affect absorption. A multivitamin can help us maintain adequate micronutrient intake for healthy aging. Additionally, a good multivitamin should be full of food-derived antioxidants, which fight the build-up of oxidative stress and free radicals (1). These charged molecules harm cells and expedite aging. Antioxidants in a daily multivitamin can offset deficiencies and fight oxidative stress. 4. Heart Health It’s no secret that the nutrients on your plate and in your supplements affect your heart. In fact, Vitamins B1, B2, B6, K1, Niacin (B3), CoQ10 and magnesium all play a role in cardiovascular health. What’s more, some micronutrients promote healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels while supporting a lessened inflammation response in the body. In an age in which heart ailments are the leading cause of death of both men and women, we need all the heart-healthy nutrients we can get. Studies have found that multivitamin use may be associated with less heart ailments and better health (2, 3, 4). 5. Immune Function Many micronutrients play a role in healthy immune function. In fact, the most important micronutrients for a healthy immune system include vitamins A, C, D, E, B2, B6 and B12, folic acid, beta carotene, iron, selenium, and zinc (5). These nutrients can be found in foods and a good daily multivitamin. While you can certainly eat foods to provide many needed nutrients, most adults are found to be lacking in important immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin D. A good multivitamin can help. 6. Eye Health Micronutrients are also important for eye health. Vitamins A, C, E, Niacin (B3), and selenium support it. Lutein and Zeaxanthin protect the eyes from harmful light waves. In fact, studies have shown multivitamins containing a combination of vitamins, lutein, and zeaxanthin can reduce the risk of macular degeneration (7, 8). Macular Degeneration is an eye disease the causes vision loss and is considered the leading cause of blindness around the world (9). Additionally, researchers have found that taking a daily multivitamin may reduce the risk of cataract symptoms, another eye ailment that contributes to vision loss in older adults (10). 7. Bone Health Bone density gradually diminishes as we age. What’s more, going through menopause can put women at a higher risk of bone loss (11). Thankfully, a good multivitamin can provide micronutrients that support bone health, reduce risk of fractures, and even promote bone healing. These nutrients include calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and K2 (12, 13, 14, 15). Bone health is supremely important throughout life. Make sure to get the nutrients you need for healthy bones. 8. Brain Function Beyond physical health, multivitamins may support mental health. In fact, some research shows that taking a daily multivitamin can preserve brain function and boost mental health as well. Interestingly enough, one study published by the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology at Swinburne University in Australia even found that daily supplementation with a multivitamin was able to support better memory in older men at risk for cognitive decline (16). Additionally, multivitamins may also support healthy moods and reduce depressive symptoms. One study published in Psychopharmacology found that daily multivitamin supplementation was linked to significant reductions in both anxiety and stress (17). Similarly, another study found that taking a multivitamin was effective at increasing alertness, improving mood and enhancing feelings of overall well-being (18). How can this all be linked to a daily multivitamin? Brain health, like other organs, depends on many micronutrients like antioxidants, anti-inflammatory nutrients, and healthy fatty acids (19). Since our crops, diets, and food supply often lack everything we need, a daily multivitamin can help. 9. Healthy Hair and Skin How can you support the health of your hair and skin? Many lifestyle and diet habits impact hair, skin, and nail health. The important nutrients include Vitamins B3 (Niacin), biotin, Vitamin C, Vitamins A, C, E, iron, zinc, and CoQ10 (20, 21, 22, 23, 24). In fact, adequate micronutrients can slow thinning of hair, improve the appearance of skin, and improve nail health. 10. Energy and Vitality Wouldn’t you love more energy and vitality? Focus on adequate iron, B Vitamins, and magnesium. In fact, these nutrients support energy production, better sleep, and cellular health (25). In addition, a healthy low-carb Mediterranean diet using Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto can improve overall health, energy, and vitality. Why Choose Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin? While many multivitamins on the market contain low potency of nutrients, man made chemicals, and artificial coloring and sweeteners, Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin is different. It contains the highest-quality active-form micronutrients ingredients, including methylcobalamin (the active form of Vitamin B12), and methyltetrahydrofolate (the active form of folic acid). These nutrients are efficiently absorbed and effectively used in the body. In fact, active forms of micronutrients are superior in many ways. Most importantly, your body does not have to try convert them to the active form. Importantly, many people cannot convert all inactive nutrients to active ones. Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin contains active Vitamin K2, active Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12 (methylcobalamin), Vitamin A, C, D, E, and K, biotin, calcium, potassium, folic Acid (methyltetrahydrofolate), and iodine. Bottom Line A great multivitamin can support your entire body, and specific areas of health listed above. But choose wisely. Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin stands above others with active forms of micronutrients, high-potency, and natural ingredients. 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