Written by Health Expert Julie Germaine
Choosing to include vitamins in your healthy routine has many benefits. The essential nutrients obtained through foods are not always enough to support optimal bodily function, which can leave one at risk for developing a weak immune system, leading to disease or infection.
It is not enough to pop a pill with breakfast, however, as vitamins are absorbed by the body in unique ways, making the foods that you pair them with equally as important. I’m referring to water-soluble vs. fat-soluble vitamins, and here is a crash course with all you need to know.
Water-soluble vitamins, such as riboflavin, thiamin, B6, B12, C, folic acid and biotin, cannot be stored within the body, and need to be consumed in larger quantities daily to bless you with their advantages. These vitamins aid metabolism, help to convert foods into energy to keep you cruising through life feeling good, and also include antioxidants to protect cells.
The best time to take water-soluble vitamins is with a big ‘ol glass of water during breakfast or lunchtime. (You’ll never go wrong starting the day with water!) Choose one and be consistent to help you remember it within your routine. Avoid having coffee, milk, or beverages high in calcium within an hour, to ensure there are no issues with the absorption.
Fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamin A, D, K, and E, are in fact stored within the body and work to maintain strong bones and promote cardiovascular health.
It will be easy to remember to pair these vitamins with foods high in fat (aka fat-soluble vitamins), to guarantee your body makes the best use of them and effectively shuttles the nutrients to where they are needed. Think of taking these pills with meals containing avocado, nuts, whole eggs, or foods cooked in oils.
Fitness is not just about eating right and exercising. You’ve got to have the right mindset and support to start your journey to better health and – more importantly – stick to it.