When Is the Best Time To Take Vitamins?

Timing can make all the difference when it comes to vitamins. Some work best on a full stomach, while others only need water to work. Certain vitamins are daily essentials, while others fill in nutritional gaps. It’s no wonder parents often wonder: Should vitamins be part of breakfast? Taken after dinner? And does timing even matter?

If you’re unsure about when to give your child vitamins for the best results, don’t worry. We’re here to break it down so you can make the most of every dose.

Is It Better To Take Vitamins in the Morning or at Night?

It’s a common question, but “morning or night?” isn’t the most important factor when it comes to vitamins. The truth? Timing doesn’t significantly affect how your child’s body absorbs most vitamins. However, energy-supporting vitamins like B-complex may be more helpful during active hours.

The real key is pairing vitamins with food. Breakfast is often ideal, especially if the meal includes healthy fats that enhance absorption. Always avoid giving vitamins on an empty stomach—it can cause discomfort, like nausea or cramping. A light meal or hearty snack makes for a smoother experience. Also consider other medications your child might be on - if they need extra iron for example, it's best to take a standalone iron supplement 1 hour before or after taking a multivitamin that contains zinc or calcium.

Water Soluble Vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins play essential roles in daily health, as the body uses what it needs immediately and eliminates the rest. Always pair these vitamins with water to support proper absorption. These vitamins are typically obtained through a balanced diet, but limited diets might require extra attention. A multivitamin can help fill any gaps.

Here’s a quick breakdown of water-soluble vitamins:

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

• B Vitamins:

• B1 (Thiamine)

• B2 (Riboflavin)

• B3 (Niacin)

• B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

• B6 (Pyridoxine)

• B7 (Biotin, also known as Vitamin H)

• B9 (Folic Acid)

• B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

Special Note on Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 supports energy and metabolism, making it ideal for daytime use. Giving this vitamin to children early in the day can help sustain energy levels during school or play. Avoid it near bedtime as its energizing effects may disrupt sleep.

For children or adults with conditions like B12 deficiency anemia, supplementation should follow a doctor’s specific recommendations, regardless of timing.

Fat Soluble Vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins are essential nutrients that the body stores in the liver or fat tissues, releasing them gradually as needed. While daily intake is important, these vitamins provide a bit of flexibility since the body can draw from stored reserves. However, long-term deficiencies can still occur if intake is inconsistent.

Here’s a list of key fat-soluble vitamins:

• Vitamin A (Retinoic Acid)

• Vitamin D (Calciferol)

• Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

• Vitamin K (Phytonadione)

Easy Kid-Friendly Meal Ideas

Fat-soluble vitamins work best when paired with healthy fats. Here’s how to fit them into kid-approved meals:

• Breakfast: Whole-grain toast with peanut butter, scrambled eggs with cheese, or a smoothie with yogurt and avocado.

• Dinner: Mac and cheese with steamed broccoli, chicken nuggets with a side of guacamole, or salmon patties with roasted sweet potatoes.

Simple Tips for Absorption

Pairing these vitamins with meals that include fats—like dairy, nuts, or oils—ensures the body can absorb them properly. Just one balanced meal a day can help kids get the most out of their vitamins.

When Is The Best Time To Take A Multivitamin?

Multivitamins simplify the daily routine for parents and kids alike. Instead of juggling multiple supplements, a once-a-day chewable multivitamin covers essential nutrients in one easy step.

For kids, they’re especially convenient—no battles over taking several pills throughout the day. A single multivitamin gets the job done fuss-free.

Since multivitamins often contain both fat- and water-soluble vitamins (like energy-boosting B12), morning is the ideal time to give them. Pair it with breakfast that includes healthy fats—think whole-grain waffles with peanut butter—and a glass of water or milk.

When Is the Best Time To Take Mineral Supplements?

The ideal way to get minerals is through food. Healthy meals can provide tiny but essential amounts of minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc, making a balanced diet the first line of defense against deficiencies.

However, kids don’t always eat enough mineral-rich veggies or seafood, and allergies (or aversion) to fish or shellfish can make it even harder to meet daily needs. In these cases, supplements might help.

Many multivitamins include minerals like calcium, often paired with vitamin D for absorption. Since minerals can upset an empty stomach, pair them with meals—like yogurt with fruit for breakfast or chicken stir-fry for dinner—to keep things gentle and effective.

Is It Okay For Children To Take Vitamins At Night?

While it’s generally safe to give children vitamins at night, it’s not recommended for those that impact energy, like B12, as they might interfere with sleep. To maximize absorption and minimize potential issues, it’s best to administer vitamins with meals in the morning or early afternoon. Always check with your pediatrician to ensure the timing and dosage suit your child’s needs.

Does My Child Need a Multivitamin Supplement?

In an ideal world, a balanced diet would provide your child with all the vitamins and minerals they need. Meals featuring proteins, whole grains, fruits, veggies, and dairy typically meet these nutritional needs.

But let’s be real—kids aren’t exactly known for devouring spinach or salmon. Picky eating, food allergies, plant-based diets, or medical conditions like malabsorption can make it hard to get enough nutrients.

If you’re concerned about gaps in your child’s nutrition, talk to their pediatrician. Multivitamins are often recommended to fill in the blanks.

How Many Hiya Vitamins Per Day Does My Child Need?

While some kids multivitamins require up to 5 vitamins per day, Hiya Kids Daily Multivitamin is a “one and done” multivitamin. Each chewable is packed with nutrients to help your child get everything the nutrient boost they need for the day—in one great-tasting chewable tablet. 

Hiya Is Designed For Kids

Hiya fits the bill if your child’s pediatrician believes a daily multivitamin would be a valuable part of your child’s daily routine. Our once-daily children’s chewable multivitamin contains an expertly balanced combination of 15 essential fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins, and minerals.

Hiya was formulated to contain the vitamins and minerals that picky eaters or children with dietary restrictions often need a little more of. 

With the advice of pediatricians, we created a multivitamin suitable for most households. Our multivitamins are vegan, non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, and eco-friendly.

Best of all, Hiya doesn’t contain any gummy additives. Our chewables contain natural flavors and are sweetened with monk fruit. They’re appealing to children without sending the message that candy correlates with health.

Give your child Hiya with a healthy, well-balanced morning meal to help them make up for the gaps in their diet. 

Sources:

Vitamins: Their Functions and Sources | Michigan Medicine

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Choosing a Vitamin and Mineral Supplement | Michigan Medicine

Common Allergens - Peanut, Egg, and Sesame Allergies | Food Allergy Research and Education