Since a balanced diet is difficult to maintain, many people rely on vitamin and mineral supplements to provide them with the proper nourishment. However there are a few important tips to remember before undergoing a vitamin regimen. First of all, if you happen to suffer from any illnesses, speak with your doctor regarding any possible interactions that your vitamins may have with your medicine or with your illness. For instance, calcium supplements are not recommended for people who suffer from kidney stones. Here are a few more tips in getting the most out of your vitamins and minerals.

All fat soluble vitamins should be taken with food if they are to be well absorbed. Fat soluble vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E. Also, natural forms of vitamin E are absorbed better by the body than synthetic vitamin E. Vitamin E has also been proven very beneficial for women who take oral contraceptives. This particular vitamin, along with coenzyme 10, has been showing up in lower percentages in women who take birth control pills.

If you take mineral supplements, which many of us do, you should be aware of the fact that coffee and tea slow down their absorption. Also, multivitamins that are time released provide better overall absorption. And unlike what most of us believe, there is no difference between the body’s ability to use natural vitamin C than it is synthetic. And although we can’t overdose in this particular compound, we can experience an upset stomach if taken in excess. Some compounds that we can overdose on include Iron, Zinc, and Selenium. These particular compounds can be very toxic when taken in excess so be sure that you have your doses correct. These are just a few tips towards a healthy multivitamin regimen.