What is the impact of combining coffee and vitamins?
Coffee is one of the most well-known and widely used drinks. It has been consumed for centuries, usually to energize or to help increase alertness and concentration. Vitamins, on the other hand, are micronutrients that support processes in the body such as energy production, nervous system functioning, and digestive health. Though it’s important to question whether you can drink coffee after taking vitamins, it is even more crucial to see what the impact of consuming them together is.
The combination of coffee and vitamins affects each person differently. Research has found that drinking coffee after taking vitamins can cause issues like digestive problems, an increase in heart rate, and a feeling of being “wired” for an extended period of time.
Should you avoid Vitamin C and Coffee?
Vitamin C should ideally be taken away from coffee if you would like to avoid any digestive disturbances. Studies have found that vitamin C has a tendency to be adversely affected by caffeine and causes problems with digestion.
This is due to the fact that caffeinated beverages contain tannins, which can bind to vitamin C and make it unavailable to be absorbed in the body. Tannins can cause a reduction in the amount of vitamin C that is absorbed, which means that a large amount of it may be flushed out of the system without being used.
Can you take Iron and Coffee Together?
The consumption of coffee with iron supplements has been studied in great detail and the results are mixed. Some studies suggest that the two may be combined, while others advise that iron should be taken away from coffee.
Iron is often referred to as a “turbulent nutrient” because it is difficult to absorb from the gastrointestinal tract. The presence of compounds like caffeine, tannins and polyphenols found in coffee can negatively interfere with iron absorption. Studies find that when iron is taken at the same time as coffee, there is a marked decrease in its absorption.
Are There Other Supplements to Worry About?
Studies suggest that certain supplements should not be taken with caffeinated beverages. These include vitamin B complex, calcium, vitamin E, and other supplements containing magnesium. B Vitamins, Calcium and Vitamin E can be adversely affected by caffeine and have limited absorption when taken along with coffee.
If you are looking to consume these supplements, it is best to do so at least three hours before or after you drink coffee. The same can be said for multi-vitamins that come with iron, calcium, magnesium, and other vitamins and minerals, as their absorption can also be limited by the presence of caffeine.
How Can You Maximize The Absorption of Vitamins?
There are certain strategies that can help you maximize the absorption of vitamins when coffee is present.
Firstly, coffee should be taken with food rather than an empty stomach as food helps to reduce coffee’s acidic nature. Secondly, coffee should only be consumed two or three hours after taking vitamins as this will help to reduce the impact of its acidity on the digestive system and the absorption of vitamins. Lastly, make sure to drink plenty of water to help dilute the acidity of coffee and flush out any vitamin residue.
Medical Advice
When it comes to drinking coffee after taking vitamins, it is important to realize that every person will have a different response. Some people may find no issues with combining the two, while others may find a decrease in absorption.
Before combination any type of beverage or supplement, it is suggested that you consult with a doctor or nutritionist to get insight into the best way to increase the absorption of vitamins and to determine if any side effects or contraindications exist.
Questions to Consider
Before you drink coffee after taking vitamins, there are a few important questions you should consider. How will the combination affect your digestion? Will this decrease the absorption of vitamins? How will it affect your energy and alertness levels? What other beverages should you avoid when taking vitamins?
Coffee Alternatives
If you are looking to increase your energy and alertness levels without compromising vitamin absorption, there are certain coffee alternatives you can try. Green tea has been studied to have energizing properties and is known to be rich in antioxidants. Many also turn to smoothies, snacks, or other beverages such as yerba mate.
Know Your Goals & Consider Risk Factors
It is important to understand your goals when considering whether or not to drink coffee after taking vitamins. If you are looking for an energy boost or increased alertness levels, coffee may be a suitable option. However, it is crucial to consider the risk factors associated with drinking coffee after taking vitamins, as your digestion and vitamin absorption may be impacted.
Personal Opinions
Personal opinions when combining coffee and vitamins also vary widely. Some people will tell you that coffee and vitamins are perfectly acceptable to mix and no harm will come to your health. Others may say that the combination should be avoided due to the potential impact on digestion.
Ultimately, it is important to make sure that you have done your research and taken into account any potential side effects. If you are taking certain supplements, it is best to double-check with a doctor or nutritionist to get the most accurate advice.
