Caffiene in coffee or tea could stop the body getting nutrients from some supplements (Image: GETTY)
What you are using to take your morning supplements could be making the entire effort pointless, one expert has warned. Agnieszka Kozlowska, owner of , specifically warned Brits about the potential effects of coffee on four particular supplements.
Those who take vitamin B, C, D and iron supplements could be especially vulnerable to this risk if they’re consuming these pills with coffee. The expert advised taking your supplements with plain water and waiting a minimum of 30 minutes before indulging in any caffeine.
She said: “Caffeine can cause the body to lose essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, which are important for hydration, heart health, and energy. Adding electrolytes to water is an effective way to replenish these levels.”
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Iron is one of the essential nutrients that the body is blocked from absorbing when you have caffeine in your system, because of this, the expert recommended avoiding coffee or tea for a few hours before and after taking your iron supplement.
Caffeine also interferes with how your body handles vital vitamin D supplements, as the expert noted: “Caffeine can reduce your body’s ability to absorb and utilise vitamin D effectively, as caffeine interferes with the receptors that help your body use vitamin D.”
The expert highlighted the interaction between coffee and vitamin D, saying: “Since vitamin D is important for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and good sleep, it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes before or after your coffee to take your vitamin D supplement.”
The disruption does not end there as vitamins B and C absorption can also be affected: “Because caffeine increases urination, it can flush these nutrients out before your body absorbs them. Adjusting the timing of your supplements can improve their effectiveness.”
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She advocated for reducing caffeine consumption in general if you are on a supplement regimen, since the two can be counterproductive. She pointed to complementary approaches that could potentially negate the need for that morning pick-me-up: optimizing your nocturnal habits for better slumber and consequentially waking up more refreshed.
Delving into alternative methods, she said: “Sleep-supporting supplements and essential oils can be an effective way to wind down after a busy day and improve sleep quality.
“Products containing lavender or bergamot can help relax the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. By improving your sleep, it can reduce the need for caffeine in the morning, leaving you feeling refreshed and energised to start your day off right without relying on a coffee boost.”