Two of the B complex vitamins, B9 and B12, work closely together in the body.
You can—but it's probably not a good idea. For some supplements, optimal absorption can depend on the time of day taken. Not only that—taking certain vitamins, minerals, or other supplements together can also reduce absorption and may result in adverse interactions, which can be harmful to your health.
Vitamin C and Vitamin D are two essential nutrients that play important roles in the body and help to maintain overall health and wellness. You may be wondering, “Can I take Vitamin D and C together?” The answer is… Yes. In fact, when taken together, they're a powerful combo that can support the immune system.
Phenobarbital, phenytoin, and other anticonvulsant medications -- These medications may accelerate the body's use of vitamin D. Mineral oil -- Mineral oil also interferes with absorption. In addition, Vitamin D may enhance the effects of doxorubicin , a medicine used to treat a variety of cancers.
Vitamins D, E and K
Airey says it's “simply not efficient” to take them together as your body's ability to absorb the vitamins will be reduced if you take them together.
Don't use calcium, zinc, or magnesium supplements at the same time. Also, these three minerals are easier on your tummy when you take them with food, so if your doctor recommends them, have them at different meals or snacks.
Magnesium assists in the activation of vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium and phosphate homeostasis to influence the growth and maintenance of bones. All of the enzymes that metabolize vitamin D seem to require magnesium, which acts as a cofactor in the enzymatic reactions in the liver and kidneys.
Combining multiple supplements or taking higher-than-recommended doses can increase the risk that they can cause harm, said Kitchin. "You really can't get toxic doses of nutrients through food, but you can absolutely get toxic doses through supplements," Kitchin said.
You can take magnesium with several other vitamins and minerals to enhance their contributions to your health. Your body depends on magnesium to allow it to absorb vitamin D. Enzymes in your liver and kidneys need magnesium to break down the vitamin and convert it into a form your body can work with.
Some vitamins that should not be taken together, or have dosage limitations, include vitamin C with vitamin B-12, vitamin A supplement with vitamin A-rich foods, folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12, and vitamin E with vitamin K.
So, get enough vitamin D—just take it in the morning or afternoon. At night, take supplements that support sleep quality and muscle relaxation, like magnesium and melatonin (which you'll find in soothing, sippable Bulletproof Sleep Collagen Protein).
“Digestion slows down during sleep, so taking your nutrient supplement late at night would not be associated with an efficient absorption.” Neil Levin, a clinical nutritionist at NOW Foods, agrees that morning is best for multivitamins and any B vitamins.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with MAGNESIUM. Magnesium might slow blood clotting. Taking magnesium along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Phytates in the diet bind to magnesium and impair its absorption. However the quantities present in normal diet do not affect magnesium absorption. Other dietary factors that are thought to affect magnesium absorption are oxalate, phosphate, proteins, potassium and zinc.
When taken in combination, magnesium and zinc have mutual benefits. Magnesium helps the body regulate its zinc levels, while zinc ensures that magnesium is absorbed effectively by the body. Zinc is important to digest food, boost the immune system, synthesize proteins, and keep bones strong and healthy.
Combining supplements will not normally interfere with the way they work and in some cases may be beneficial, for example vitamin C helps iron absorption. However, certain supplements may interact with each other.
Taking vitamin B-12 with vitamin C might reduce the available amount of vitamin B-12 in your body. To avoid this interaction, take vitamin C two or more hours after taking a vitamin B-12 supplement.