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5 supplements that do not mix with coffee

Combining your coffee cup with your vitamin or daily supplement is not always a good idea. Some supplements do not mix well with caffeine, which can affect the way your body absorbs them.

1. Iron

Iron transports oxygen into your blood and supports the cellular function. You may need to take iron supplements if your iron level is low.

Studies show that Drinking coffee with an iron supplement can reduce absorption. Tanins and polyphenols of coffee can be binded to iron, which makes its absorption more difficult by your body. However, it is important to remember that the effects of coffee absorption seem to depend on the moment when you drink your coffee.

If you take iron supplements for a deficiency, it is highly recommended to Take them at least two hours before or after drinking coffee To maximize absorption.

2. Water -soluble vitamins (B and C complexes)

Coffee is a light diuretic, which means that it can increase urination and cause a loss of certain nutrients. This can reduce the effectiveness of water -soluble vitamins such as vitamins B (notably B1, B6, B7 and B12) and vitamin C.

Since the body does not store these vitamins, any surplus is eliminated by urine. Drinking a lot of coffee can speed up this process, potentially reducing absorption. For this reason, you should try Take your vitamins and coffee at different times.

3. Vitamin D and calcium

Coffee can decrease the absorption of vitamin D and calcium: research suggests that higher consumption of caffeine is associated with lower levels of vitamin D.

Here is how coffee could interfere with your vitamin D and calcium supplements:

  • Coffee can reduce vitamin D By reducing the number of receivers necessary for absorption.
  • Vitamin D receivers are also vital for Calcium absorption and bone health.
  • The diuretic effect of coffee can also Increase the loss of calcium by urine. However, this quantity is low and can be offset by adding only 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk to your drink.

Moderate coffee consumption may not have a significant negative effect on bone density. However, people with a risk of low calcium or osteoporosis should be cautious. It is best to take your supplement of calcium or vitamin D at a different time from that where you drink coffee.

4. Magnesium and zinc

Polyphenols and coffee tannins can be binded to other essential minerals, such as magnesium and zinc, thus reducing their absorption. The diuretic effects of coffee can also increase the loss of nutrients by urine. Take your magnesium or zinc separately from coffee For the best results.

5. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that regulates your circadian rhythm. It is triggered by darkness at night. It is also available in the form of an over -the -counter supplement (OTC) used to improve sleep.

As a stimulant, Coffee acts against melatonin By keeping you alert and making it difficult to fall asleep, especially when consumed shortly before bedtime.

To avoid interfering with melatonin, it is preferable to Separate the consumption of coffee and melatonin of several hours. Generally, it is recommended to avoid caffeine at least six hours before bedtime.

How to avoid interactions with coffee

The key to avoiding an interaction between coffee and your supplements is timing. It is recommended to take your vitamin or daily supplement separately from your cup of coffee, ideally for at least a few hours. In this way, you can minimize any potential interaction and guarantee optimal absorption.

Verywell Health only uses high -quality sources, including studies evaluated by peers, to support the facts contained in our articles. Read our editorial process to find out more about how we check the facts and maintain our precise, reliable and trustworthy content.
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By Ayesha Gulzar, pharmd

Ayesha Gulzar is a clinical pharmacist who is interested in medical research, pharmaceutical practice and pharmacotherapy management. Dr. Gulzar has worked in the field of medical communications, writing medical and clinical research for patients and health professionals in the United Kingdom.

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