We won’t and can’t always take in the right number of nutrients and therefore may need to look at supplements to bridge the gap depending on what we physically deal with. But when we take our supplements, is more important than taking our supplements; if we want to acquire the maximum benefit.

The following suggestions may be useful:

• Multi-vitamins and mineral supplements should be taken either 15 minutes before or 15 minutes after breakfast;
• Always take any additional supplements with a multivitamin together in the morning;
• Calcium and magnesium supplements should be taken in the evening (as they both may help with sleep);
• If you double up on certain vitamins, split them so they’re not taken together;
• Only take separate B vitamins if you are also taking a B complex vitamin. This can usually be found in a multivitamin;
• Vitamin B which helps with energy should be taken on a morning.

If you’re not good at remembering to take supplements, then taking supplements together will be better, rather than not taking any at all. It’s also a good idea to take them at a time you know you will remember. For any duplicate tablets, split them so that one can be taken with each meal.

Supplements aren’t the ultimate cure for health, but they do go some way to help prevent illness. Some illnesses cannot always be prevented but taking supplements may help keep them to a minimum.

Other considerations also need to be considered, such as lifestyle and diet.