Can Vitamin A and Vitamin E be taken at the same time?
Find out if vitamin A and vitamin E can be taken at the same time, or if they are best taken separately.
Vitamin A with vitamin E
Short answer: Useful in the same plan
While not found to provide additional benefits when taken at the exact same time, research has shown that vitamin A pairs well with vitamin E.
Also taken with vitamin E, for increased absorption of vitamin A
Intestinal absorption of vitamin A has been shown to improve significantly when taken in the presence of vitamin E, and you will often see vitamin A combined with vitamin E in some supplement formulations (together with vitamin C as well), so that is worth considering if you want to get the most from your vitamin A.
Also taken with vitamin A and vitamin C
Vitamin E is often combined with vitamin A and vitamin C in certain supplement formulations, and this is in part due to their synergistic properties when taken together. For example, one study showed that when vitamin E was supplemented, there was a significant increase in the intestinal absorption of vitamin A.
Another study found that a combination of vitamins E and C can contribute to a reduction in the risk of several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, cataracts, ischemic heart disease, and several types of cancer.
Timing is everything
Many supplements are dependent on being taken at the right time, or with the right meal, for proper absorption. For example, fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D should be taken together with a high-fat meal. Stimulating supplements, such as rhodiola or ginseng, should avoid being taken too late in the day.
The perfect match
Some supplements are known to complement each other when taken together, either because one helps the other to be absorbed, or because their effects compliment each other. Well known combos include vitamin D3, vitamin K2 and magnesium, or quercetin and bromelain, but there are many others.
Incompatibilities
Likewise, some supplements can compete for absorption or react negatively if taken together. For example, calcium and magnesium compete for absorption, so they are best taken several hours apart, and fiber-heavy supplements such as psyllium husk should be taken by themselves, separate from all other supplements.
Potential additions
The Vitamin Plan will automatically detect if there is a recurring theme in the supplements that you are taking, and suggest a focused addition or two for that theme. For example, if your plan seems to be mostly centered around joint health, it may suggest adding glucosamine or collagen if you didn’t add them yet.
Remember
A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle always come first, and supplements are meant to be just that: supplementary. While every effort has been made to ensure that the data on this page is accurate, said accuracy can never be guaranteed. The information provided is not medical advice, it is not intended to cover all possible interactions or adverse effects, and neither is it a substitute for the expertise of professional healthcare practitioners. You are always encouraged to do your own research, and to consult with your trusted doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements.
