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Zinc, copper, magnesium and calcium work best when taken at specific times, says neuroscientist
You may be taking all the right supplements that promise several health benefits, but pairing them incorrectly will render your efforts useless.
Supplements like magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, vitamin, and others are important for several bodily functions. These are more effective when taken at specific times and not combined, which only nullifies the benefits.
Supplements you should never take together
Dietary supplements are essential to improve your health. When the body doesn’t derive it naturally from the food you consume, additional supplements such as magnesium, calcium, and others are recommended by doctors to maintain your well-being.
Some of you may take more than one supplement at a time, which is fine, as long as you refrain from the combinations neuroscientist Dr. Robert Love outlines.
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Zinc and Copper
Zinc is important for your brain health, and copper is needed to carry out functions such as making energy, and maintaining the nervous and immune systems.
However, these two shouldn’t be taken together as copper reduces the effectiveness of zinc, according to Dr. Robert. He recommends taking zinc on an empty stomach or mixing it with food for “maximum benefits,” but never with copper.
Magnesium and calcium
Avoid taking magnesium with dairy or general calcium supplements as they “compete for absorption.” Magnesium is best taken on an empty stomach and before going to sleep.
Magnesium is essential for healthy muscles, the nervous system, and bones, to regulate blood pressure and more. The mineral is found in a list of natural foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, lentils, and more.
Iron and fat-soluble vitamins
Avoid taking iron with calcium or zinc as they compete for absorption, while taking different fat-soluble vitamins together has a similar effect, too.
“If you take them with fat or food, it helps in the absorption better,” he says, before warning against taking it on an empty stomach or just with plain water. The healthy fats recommended for fat-soluble vitamins include olive oil, coconut oil, or a healthy meal.
Dr. Robert Love is a neuroscientist, entrepreneur and Alzheimers researcher, best known for social media content extensively discussing brain health and issues related to the mind. Hes a graduate of The University of Texas, with over fourteen years of experience in research. He serves as the Head of Research at Brain Fit For Life, LLC.
