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There is much confusion about when to take herbal supplements, vitamins and medications. Do you take them on an empty stomach or with food?

No matter what you take, you should be drinking a full glass of water to make sure the pill doesn’t linger in your esophagus and cause irritation.

When a dietary supplement, enzyme or medication states the directive to “take with food,” it usually means to take while you’re eating, or a few minutes beforehand.

But since food stays in your gastrointestinal tract for a little while, it would be fine to take the pill right after you eat, as well.

Medications to take with food

Antacids: These help with heartburn or reflux. They should always be taken with food so that they can neutralize the acid that is secreted while you’re eating.

Amoxicillin: This is the most popular antibiotic, especially for children. I recommend it be given to toddlers and teens with food in order to reduce indigestion, nausea and vomiting.

Aspirin and Ibuprofen: Ideally these are taken with food.

Corticosteroids: These are used for pain, allergic reactions, rashes and overactive immune systems. Some examples include prednisone, hydrocortisone and dexamethasone.

These should always be taken with food or milk.

Enzyme supplements or medications: Some people can’t digest food normally, so they take enzyme supplements, which break down the starch, fat and protein in a meal.

Take these with meals. If a medication (e.g., Creon) is required to restore pancreatic function, it must be taken with meals.

Metformin: Taken for diabetes, this medication is best taken around meal time to reduce blood sugar levels after eating.

Supplements to take with food

Ashwagandha: This popular stress reducer should be thought of as food because it’s an herb. All herbs should be taken with a snack or a meal in order to amplify the benefits and reduce nausea.

CoQ10: Some people take this powerful antioxidant for cellular energy production to support their heart, pancreas, liver and brain. CoQ10 (ubiquinone) should be taken with food or a fatty meal to speed absorption.

Fish Oil: Some people take fish oil to help with cholesterol, triglycerides, depression and blood joint health. Taking fish oil supplements (EPA, DHA or both) with food or fatty meals is ideal because it boosts the absorption.

Magnesium: Some people take magnesium for depression, regularity, reduction of leg cramps and blood pressure support. Like most minerals, taking magnesium with a snack can minimize diarrhea and stomach discomfort.

Multivitamins or prenatal vitamins: Because there are so many constituents in these supplements, it’s best to take them with food in order to minimize stomach upset and nausea.

Selenium: This mineral is taken for thyroid inflammation, bone health, prostate support and immune support. It’s ideally taken with food.

Vitamin D: You can take this without regard to meals, according to the newest research. However, most of the older scientific literature says to take it with food since it’s fat-soluble.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and the author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe. To contact her, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.