It's not recommended to take vitamins on an empty stomach
Many people believe that taking vitamins and dietary supplements at any time of day provides the same benefit, but the timing of intake can actually play a crucial role in how well the body absorbs them.
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Some supplements are best avoided on an empty stomach, because doing so may reduce their absorption or cause stomach upset, which limits their effectiveness and increases the likelihood of unpleasant side effects, according to Verywell Health.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
These vitamins are among the most important supplements to avoid taking on an empty stomach. Since they dissolve in fat, they need to be taken with a meal containing healthy fats, such as avocado, nuts, eggs, or olive oil, for the body to absorb them effectively.
While taking them without food isn't dangerous, it may reduce their effectiveness, and over time this could lead to lower levels of these vitamins in the body despite regular supplement use.
Multivitamins
Multivitamins typically contain a mix of both fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. When taken on an empty stomach, the body may not absorb the fat-soluble vitamins well.
They may also irritate the stomach lining and cause nausea if taken without food, so it's recommended to take them with a meal, ideally one containing some healthy fats.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is the most common form of calcium supplement, and it requires stomach acid to be absorbed properly.
Eating helps increase the secretion of this acid, which improves calcium absorption.
Taking it on an empty stomach may reduce its absorption and increase the likelihood of digestive side effects, such as bloating or discomfort.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is a fat-soluble compound that acts as an antioxidant and is used to support heart health and energy production.
Because it is fat-soluble, its absorption is better when taken with a meal containing healthy fats, while taking it on an empty stomach may reduce its effectiveness.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 supplements, such as fish oil, are classified as fat-dependent supplements, so it's preferable to take them with food.
Taking them on an empty stomach may reduce their absorption and may also increase the likelihood of side effects such as nausea or fishy-tasting burps.
Curcumin
Curcumin is known for being poorly absorbed when taken alone, and it needs fat to improve its absorption. Many supplements also add an extract from black pepper known as "piperine" to help increase its absorption.
