Are you taking handfuls of supplements? You might wanna think about what you’re doing if you’re in the habit of doing that. Timing of supplement intake is as important as the form in which you take them. That would have to be a totally different discussion altogether though. For now, let’s discuss ways in which to optimize the effectiveness of your nutritional supplement program. One thing to take note though before I make general recommendations is that everybody is metabolically different and unique and as such, an individualized program has to be in order.
Multivitamins, whole-food based, should be taken with food a couple of times a day. I’m not a huge fan of time-released multis coz they usually come in the form of tablets (which by the way, may have unnecessary binders and fillers).
Probiotics ideally, are taken on an empty stomach unless they’re enteric-coated.
Supplements such as essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E and K are best taken with the heaviest meals.
Mineral supplements are taken apart from meals since fiber from food would actually interfere with their absorption.
Amino acids should ideally be taken apart from food as well. Examples include NAC, L-carnitine and L-tryptophan.
Digestive enzymes such as pancreatic enzymes should be taken 15-30 minutes prior to meals. Plant-based enzymes such as bromelain and papain are more stable in an acid environment and as such, can be taken with meals.
I’m available for in person and virtual consultations. Contact me at +1-415-800-3757 or on Skype at drjlopezmd. Yours in wellness, DrJLo. http://www.drjlopez.com
It’s all about the timing….
March 6, 2012
Hot Tips, News and Trends for Healthy Aging By Dr. Joel Lopez, M.D. 
Comments on: "It’s all about the timing…." (2)
Thanks for all of this info., Joel. I don’t know how anyone remembers it all – but I certainly appreciate receiving it! Aloha, Stephanie Fitzpatrick
Thanks, Stephanie! How are you doing?