Maximizing Your Health: The Critical Role of Timing Your First Supplement Dose
Understanding the Significance of Supplement Timing

The importance of timing your first supplement dose is paramount for optimizing the utilization of the nutrients provided by supplements. Our bodies function on inherent rhythms shaped by various factors, including circadian cycles, metabolic rates, and hormonal fluctuations. By comprehending these natural rhythms, individuals can strategically time their supplement intake to enhance health outcomes. For instance, particular vitamins may exhibit greater efficacy when consumed at specific times of the day, aligning with the body's physiological states. This knowledge enables individuals to tailor their supplement schedules for optimal benefit, ultimately leading to enhanced health and vitality.
Individuals who understand the influence of timing on supplement effectiveness often enjoy enhanced benefits. Research published in the journal *Nutrients* suggests that individuals who take their supplements at optimal times experience superior absorption and effectiveness compared to those who do not. This awareness can translate into increased energy levels, quicker recovery from physical activities, and an overall boost in well-being. By aligning supplement intake with bodily rhythms, individuals can unlock the full potential of their supplementation efforts.
It is crucial to recognize that our daily routines can significantly impact the efficacy of supplements. Aligning the timing of your first dose with your lifestyle—whether you're an early riser or a night owl—can significantly enhance the effects of the supplement. By understanding and leveraging the intricacies of timing, you can elevate the advantages of your chosen supplements, leading to a healthier and more balanced life.
Enhancing Nutrient Absorption Through Strategic Timing
Considering absorption rates is vital when determining the best time to take your first supplement dose. Each nutrient has unique requirements for effective absorption into the bloodstream. For example, fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, are best absorbed when consumed with dietary fats. Therefore, taking them alongside meals rich in healthy fats can significantly enhance their effectiveness. In contrast, minerals like calcium can compete for absorption if taken together, complicating their uptake.
Research indicates that taking certain supplements on an empty stomach can enhance absorption rates; however, this principle does not apply universally. For instance, B vitamins are often recommended for morning intake to enhance energy levels, illustrating how understanding these nuances can drastically influence how effectively the body utilizes supplements.
Additionally, staying adequately hydrated is paramount for absorption. Drinking sufficient water with your supplements facilitates their breakdown and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Insufficient hydration, especially in the morning, can lead to decreased absorption rates and gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, ensuring you consume enough water, particularly around the time of your first supplement dose, is essential for achieving optimal results.
Synchronizing Supplement Intake with Daily Activities
Integrating supplements into your daily routine can significantly boost consistency and effectiveness, highlighting the importance of synchronization. Establishing a regimen that aligns with your lifestyle not only simplifies the process but also serves as a reminder to take your supplements regularly. For example, placing your supplements next to your coffee maker can provide a visual cue each morning.
Many people find success by associating their supplement intake with specific daily activities. For instance, taking multivitamins after breakfast or protein supplements after a workout can create a seamless and effective routine. This synchronization is vital for adhering to a supplement regimen, which is essential for achieving long-term health objectives.
Incorporating mindfulness into this routine can further enhance its impact. By reflecting on the purpose of each supplement and its intended benefits, you can strengthen your psychological connection to the regimen, making it more meaningful and motivating. Engaging consciously with your supplement routine fosters a sense of commitment and accountability, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
Identifying Optimal Timing for Various Supplements

Recognising that different supplements have distinct optimal intake times is crucial for timing your first supplement dose effectively. For example, pre-workout supplements containing stimulants should ideally be consumed 30-60 minutes before exercise to maximize energy levels and focus. Conversely, supplements formulated for relaxation or sleep, such as magnesium or valerian root, are best taken in the evening, as they help wind down and promote better sleep quality.
Furthermore, the timing of certain supplements may vary based on individual health objectives. For those aiming to build muscle, prioritizing protein supplements directly after workouts can optimize recovery and muscle synthesis. Conversely, individuals focused on weight management may benefit from taking fiber supplements before meals to promote feelings of fullness and reduce the likelihood of overeating.
Cultural practices also play a significant role in shaping the perception and utilisation of various supplements worldwide. For instance, in Japan, traditional herbal supplements are often taken in the afternoon to align with the body's natural energy dips. This cultural perspective emphasizes that optimal timing can transcend geographic boundaries and be tailored to meet individual needs effectively.
Minimizing Side Effects Through Strategic Timing
Using strategic timing can be an effective method for minimizing the potential side effects of supplements, especially when considering timing your first supplement dose. Some supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort if taken on an empty stomach, while others may induce drowsiness if consumed during the day. For instance, iron supplements are often recommended to be taken with food to mitigate nausea, whereas melatonin is best taken in the evening to promote sleep.
Listening to your body and observing its reactions to different supplement timings can offer valuable insights into how to adjust your intake effectively. Keeping a log of when you take each supplement, alongside how you feel afterward, can help you identify patterns and make informed decisions for future intake.
Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals can provide critical guidance on timing strategies tailored to your body's unique needs and specific health conditions. They may suggest taking probiotics during meals to boost gut health or adjusting the timing of certain vitamins based on individual test results or dietary restrictions.
Identifying the Best Times for Supplement Intake
Kickstart Your Day: Morning Supplement Strategies

Starting your day with the right supplements can help establish a positive tone, leading to increased energy and vitality. Taking your first supplement dose in the morning can be an effective strategy for enhancing focus and performance throughout the day. For example, B vitamins and vitamin C are typically recommended in the morning as they can provide a natural energy boost and support metabolic functions. Integrating these into your morning routine can yield far-reaching benefits for your productivity and well-being.
Many individuals find that taking their supplements alongside breakfast not only provides essential nutrients but also ensures they don't forget to take them. This practice fosters a sense of routine, which in turn facilitates consistent intake. Consuming multivitamins or specific nutrients, such as vitamin D, in the morning can also align with your body's natural circadian rhythms, which can enhance overall mood and energy levels throughout the day.
It is also essential to consider the types of food consumed during breakfast. Pairing morning supplements with a balanced meal that includes proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates can enhance absorption. For example, taking vitamin D with eggs or avocados can improve its bioavailability, maximizing its potential benefits and facilitating a more productive day.
Boosting Energy: Midday Supplement Considerations
The midday period presents another strategic window for supplement intake, particularly for individuals with busy schedules. Taking supplements around lunchtime can help maintain nutrient levels and stave off midday energy slumps. For example, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics are often recommended as mid-afternoon doses, as they can support cognitive function and gut health, promoting overall well-being.
Incorporating supplements into your lunch can be particularly beneficial for individuals engaged in demanding jobs or activities. A protein shake or snack fortified with essential vitamins can rejuvenate your energy levels and keep you focused throughout the afternoon. Furthermore, many people find that making it a habit to take their supplements during lunch enhances their ability to remember, thereby building consistency into their regimen.
It is also crucial to stay hydrated during this time. Drinking sufficient water during lunchtime can significantly improve the absorption of soluble vitamins and minerals. Staying well-hydrated ensures that your body has the optimal conditions for nutrient uptake and can prevent digestive discomfort, which is often experienced when supplements are taken without adequate fluid intake.
Evening Routine: Supplement Strategies for Relaxation
Certain supplements can be particularly effective when taken in the evening or at nighttime. This is especially true for those aimed at promoting relaxation and supporting recovery. For instance, magnesium and melatonin are commonly recommended for evening use, as they can facilitate restful sleep and recovery after a long day, enhancing overall health.
Taking your first supplement dose in the evening can help align with the body's natural winding-down process, which enhances sleep quality. Research indicates that magnesium can improve sleep quality, while melatonin can help regulate sleep-wake cycles, making them ideal choices for evening intake to support a restful night.
Additionally, taking certain supplements at night can help the body repair and restore itself. Amino acids, for instance, can support muscle recovery if consumed after workouts, particularly if your exercise occurs in the evening. The timing of these supplements can be crucial for muscle growth and recovery, illustrating the importance of aligning supplement intake with your specific lifestyle and training schedule for optimal results.
Key Factors Influencing Supplement Timing Decisions
Understanding the Type of Supplement
The type of supplement you choose will significantly influence your timing decisions. Different supplements are metabolized and absorbed in varying ways, meaning their optimal intake times can differ greatly. For instance, fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, are most effectively absorbed when taken with dietary fat, making meals prime opportunities for their consumption.
Conversely, water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C and the B complex are often better absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. For example, vitamin B12 is commonly taken in the morning, ideally before breakfast, to capitalize on its energy-boosting properties.
Minerals also deserve attention. Calcium and magnesium compete for absorption, so it's advisable not to take them simultaneously. Instead, consider taking calcium during the day with meals and magnesium in the evening to support relaxation and recovery. Understanding these nuances allows you to fine-tune your timing for your first supplement dose, enhancing both absorption and effectiveness.
There is also a growing body of evidence supporting the timing of herbal supplements. Adaptogens like ashwagandha are often recommended for morning use to help combat stress throughout the day. This illustrates the broader principle that each supplement has its unique optimal timing based on its physiological effects and intended purpose.
Personal Lifestyle: Tailoring Timing to Your Routine
Your lifestyle plays a crucial role in determining the ideal timing for supplement intake. Everyone has unique schedules, energy patterns, and daily commitments that can influence when it's most convenient or beneficial to take supplements. For instance, early risers may find that taking their first dose of supplements immediately after waking up aligns perfectly with their morning routine. At the same time, night owls may prefer a more relaxed schedule that accommodates evening intake.
Busy professionals or students may struggle to fit supplement intake into their hectic days. For such individuals, strategically timing supplements during meals or specific breaks can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients without feeling overwhelmed. Creating a personalized supplement schedule that fits seamlessly into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining consistency and maximizing benefits.
Cultural influences also play a role in supplement timing. In some cultures, certain herbal remedies are traditionally taken at specific times based on historical practices and local wisdom. Understanding these cultural perspectives can enrich your approach to supplement timing, allowing for a broader appreciation of global practices surrounding health and wellness.
Ultimately, the key is to observe how your body responds to different timing strategies. By tuning into your energy levels and overall well-being, you can make informed decisions that align with your lifestyle and health goals.
Aligning Supplement Timing with Health Goals
Aligning your supplement timing with specific health goals is crucial for maximizing benefits. Whether your objective is weight management, muscle gain, or enhanced cognitive function, the timing of your first supplement dose can significantly affect your success in achieving those goals.
For example, individuals aiming for muscle gain may consider timing protein supplements immediately after workouts. Research supports the idea that consuming protein shortly after exercise optimizes muscle repair and growth, taking advantage of the anabolic window—a critical period when the body is most receptive to nutrient intake.
Conversely, those prioritizing weight loss might benefit from taking fiber supplements before meals to promote satiety and curb overeating. This simple timing adjustment can help bridge the gap between hunger cues and actual food intake, aiding in effective weight management.
Additionally, cognitive enhancers like omega-3 fatty acids can be taken in the morning to support brain function throughout the day. Planning your supplement intake to align with your health objectives not only enhances efficacy but also fosters a sense of purpose in your regimen.
Understanding your goals is pivotal to developing a comprehensive supplement strategy. By clearly defining what you want to achieve and strategically timing your supplements, you can set the stage for a more effective health journey.
Coordinating Meal Timing with Supplement Intake
Coordinating supplement intake with meal times can enhance absorption and effectiveness, making it a key factor in determining the optimal timing of your first supplement dose. Many nutrients are better absorbed when taken with food, especially when that food contains complementary macronutrients. For instance, fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin D should be consumed with meals that contain healthy fats, such as avocados or nuts, to maximize absorption and efficacy.
Conversely, certain supplements may be best taken on an empty stomach. For example, probiotics are often recommended to be consumed before meals to increase their survival rate as they pass through the digestive tract. This timing aligns with the need for a lower stomach pH, which can enhance the effectiveness of probiotics.
Additionally, being mindful of your meal schedule can help create consistency in your supplement intake. Incorporating supplements into established meal routines can reduce the likelihood of forgetting them. For instance, taking a multivitamin with breakfast can serve as a daily reminder to prioritize your health every morning.
Meal composition also matters. If you're on a high-carbohydrate diet, taking certain supplements that require fats for optimal absorption may not be effective. Therefore, being aware of your dietary habits and adjusting your supplement timing accordingly can enhance overall nutrient uptake and effectiveness.
Leveraging Biological Rhythms for Supplement Timing
Understanding your body's biological rhythms can significantly impact the effectiveness of your supplement timing. The human body operates on a circadian rhythm, which regulates numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, hormonal secretion, and energy levels. Aligning your supplement intake with these natural rhythms can optimize its impact on your health.
For instance, cortisol levels are typically highest in the morning, making it an ideal time to take energy-boosting supplements, such as B vitamins or adaptogens. Conversely, melatonin production increases in the evening, making it the perfect time for supplements aimed at promoting sleep and relaxation.
Research has shown that aligning supplement intake with biological rhythms can enhance efficacy and minimize side effects. For example, individuals who take magnesium at night often report improved sleep quality and relaxation, syncing with the body's natural winding-down process.
Cultural practices can also shape our understanding of how biological rhythms affect health. In various regions, traditional practices often dictate when specific herbs or supplements are consumed, aligning with seasonal changes or daily routines. Tapping into this wisdom can enrich your approach to supplement timing, enabling you to make informed decisions based on both scientific evidence and cultural insights.
Avoiding Common Mistakes in Supplement Timing
Understanding the Importance of Meal Timing
A prevalent mistake in timing your first supplement dose is neglecting the significance of meal timing. Taking supplements without considering when you eat can lead to diminished effectiveness or even digestive issues. For example, certain minerals, such as calcium or iron, can compete for absorption when taken together or on an empty stomach, resulting in less bioavailable nutrients for the body.
This oversight often arises from a lack of awareness regarding how supplements interact with food. For instance, taking a fat-soluble vitamin without any dietary fat can lead to decreased absorption, underscoring that the food you consume alongside your supplements plays a vital role in how effectively your body can utilize those nutrients.
To avoid these pitfalls, it's crucial to educate yourself about the specific requirements of the supplements you're taking. Developing a habit of checking recommendations for each supplement concerning meal timing can greatly enhance their effectiveness. Keeping a food and supplement diary may also help track how different combinations work for you, allowing for personalized adjustments over time.
In some cases, individuals may find it beneficial to consult with registered dietitians or healthcare providers to clarify meal timing and its impact on supplement effectiveness. By understanding these nuances, you can maximize the benefits of your supplementation efforts and achieve better health outcomes.
Establishing Consistency in Supplement Schedules
Inconsistency can serve as a significant barrier to maximizing the benefits of supplements, particularly when it comes to timing your first supplement dose. Many individuals fail to take their supplements regularly or at the same time each day, leading to diminished effects and suboptimal health outcomes. Establishing a consistent schedule for supplement intake is crucial for achieving long-term results and maintaining nutrient levels.
Research indicates that maintaining a routine can help individuals adhere better to their supplementation plans. Inconsistencies not only impact the immediate benefits of supplements but can also hinder progress toward health goals. For example, skipping doses or varying intake times can disrupt the body's nutrient levels, leading to fluctuations in energy, mood, and overall health.
Utilizing tools such as reminders, alarms, or smartphone apps can help establish a consistent supplement routine. Integrating supplements into daily activities—like taking them while brewing morning coffee or enjoying lunch—can create a more seamless regimen that enhances compliance.
Moreover, tracking your supplements alongside your health goals provides a visual representation of your progress, making it easier to stay committed to your goals. Ultimately, committing to a consistent schedule ensures that you fully experience the benefits that supplements offer, leading to greater health and vitality.
Considering Interactions Between Supplements and Medications
Failing to consider interactions with other medications or supplements can lead to adverse effects, underscoring the importance of understanding how to time your first supplement dose effectively. Many individuals mistakenly assume that supplements are harmless and can be taken without concern for potential interactions. However, certain combinations can result in reduced efficacy or increased side effects, putting your health at risk.
For instance, taking calcium supplements alongside certain medications, such as antibiotics, can hinder the absorption of the medication, leading to decreased effectiveness. Additionally, some supplements may interact with prescribed medications, enhancing or diminishing their effects, which can pose serious health risks.
To avoid these pitfalls, it is crucial to educate yourself about potential interactions. Consulting healthcare professionals or pharmacists can provide essential insights into how supplements may interact with medications you are currently taking.
Keeping an updated list of supplements and medications can also help inform discussions with healthcare providers. By proactively addressing potential interactions, you can optimize your supplement timing strategy and safeguard your health.
Strategies for Establishing a Consistent Supplement Routine
Utilizing Reminders for Supplement Intake
Establishing a consistent supplement routine can be significantly enhanced by utilizing reminders. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook taking your first supplement dose amid a busy schedule. Setting reminders through alarms, smartphone applications, or even sticky notes placed in visible spots can help keep your health commitments at the forefront of your mind.
The psychological aspect of reminders cannot be underestimated. Associating supplement intake with daily routines—like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee—can foster a sense of accountability. This simple technique reinforces the habit, making it easier to remember and adhere to your regimen.
For those who prefer a more visual approach, consider using a supplement planner or a tracking app to log your intake. This not only serves as a reminder but also allows you to monitor consistency and make adjustments as necessary. Over time, these strategies can lead to improved adherence and greater overall benefits from your supplements.
Additionally, pairing reminders with positive reinforcement can heighten motivation. Celebrate small victories, such as successfully maintaining your routine for a week, to create a rewarding experience surrounding your supplement journey that keeps you engaged and committed.
Seamlessly Integrating Supplements with Meals
Incorporating supplements into meal times can simplify routines and enhance absorption, making it a valuable strategy in timing your first supplement dose. By associating supplements with meals, you create a seamless routine that is less likely to be forgotten, ultimately aiding in consistency.
For example, if you take a multivitamin, consider having it with breakfast or lunch to ensure it becomes part of your daily ritual. Pairing it with food can also enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, ensuring your body is better equipped to take full advantage of the nutrients you consume.
Moreover, integrating supplements into meals opens the door for creative culinary opportunities. Smoothies, oatmeal, or protein-packed meals can be fortified with various supplements, making it easy to incorporate them into your diet without compromising your dietary preferences.
Creating a meal plan that includes supplements can also help streamline grocery shopping and meal preparation. Knowing when and how to take each supplement allows you to design meals that support your overall health goals, thereby enhancing the benefits of your supplementation efforts.
Tracking Your Progress for Optimal Outcomes
Monitoring your body's response to different timing strategies can significantly refine your supplement schedule and amplify the benefits of timing your first supplement dose. Keeping a journal or using a tracking app to document your supplement intake and how you feel afterward can provide valuable insights into what works best for you.
By observing patterns over time, you may notice correlations between specific timing and fluctuations in energy levels, mood, or overall well-being. This information enables you to make informed decisions about future intake and adjustments tailored to your personal needs and preferences.
Moreover, setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-based) goals related to your supplements can enhance accountability. For instance, you might aim to consistently take your supplements at the same time each day for a month, tracking how this affects your health metrics.
Engaging with healthcare professionals can facilitate this process, as they can help interpret your tracking data and provide personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs. This collaborative approach can lead to a more nuanced understanding of your body's reactions and ultimately yield better health outcomes.
Adjusting Timing for Optimal Supplement Results
Paying Attention to Your Body's Signals
Being attuned to how different supplement timings affect your energy levels and overall well-being is fundamental for optimizing your regimen. Self-awareness is vital; take note of how you feel after taking your supplements at various times throughout the day, as this can guide your future decisions.
For example, if you find that taking certain energy-boosting supplements in the morning significantly enhances your productivity, it may be wise to adopt that routine consistently. Conversely, if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort after taking a supplement, reassessing its timing or even consulting a healthcare professional could prove beneficial for your health.
Additionally, emotional and physical states can fluctuate in response to various factors, including stress, sleep patterns, and dietary habits. Adjusting supplement timing according to these changes can lead to improved outcomes. This flexibility ensures that your regimen aligns with your body's current needs, thereby enhancing its overall effectiveness.
Regular reflection on your supplement practices fosters an adaptive approach. You may find that what initially worked needs to be tweaked as your lifestyle and health evolve. Staying in tune with your body is key to maximizing the benefits of supplementation and achieving your health goals.
Seeking Professional Guidance for Optimal Timing
Consulting professionals can offer valuable insights into the optimal times for taking supplements. Healthcare professionals, such as registered dietitians or nutritionists, can offer personalized advice tailored to your unique health profile, lifestyle, and specific needs.
Seeking professional guidance can help you navigate potential interactions with medications and provide evidence-based recommendations for your supplementation regimen. They can also help adjust the timing based on your health goals and any ongoing medical conditions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your overall well-being.
Moreover, professionals can help establish a balanced diet that complements your supplement intake, emphasizing the importance of not relying solely on supplements for nutrient intake. This comprehensive approach can enhance the effectiveness of the supplements you take while promoting overall health and wellness.
Incorporating professional advice into your supplement strategy can provide a safety net, ensuring that you are making informed decisions that align with your health goals and lifestyle for optimal benefits.
Experimenting with Supplement Timing
Experimenting with different timing strategies can lead to discovering the optimal schedule tailored to your unique needs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to timing your first supplement dose, making experimentation a crucial tool in refining your regimen.
Start by implementing small changes, such as taking a supplement at a different time of day or adjusting the timing in relation to meals. Monitor your body's responses and energy levels to identify what works best for you.
Keeping a detailed log of your observations can provide valuable insights, helping you recognize patterns and make informed adjustments. This iterative process enables you to create a supplement schedule that not only suits your lifestyle but also optimises the benefits of each supplement.
Remember, it's essential to remain patient and flexible during this experimentation process. Your body may take time to adjust, and what works today may change as your circumstances evolve. Embracing this journey can lead to greater self-awareness and a more effective supplement regimen that supports your health goals.
Continuous Monitoring and Adjusting for Optimal Results
Regularly tracking your energy levels and health metrics can significantly refine your timing strategy, leading to continuous improvement. Monitoring progress allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your supplement regimen and make necessary adjustments based on empirical data.
Utilizing tools such as health apps, journals, or spreadsheets can streamline this process. Documenting daily intake, energy levels, mood, and any physical changes can reveal trends and inform better timing decisions. For instance, if you notice a spike in energy after taking a specific supplement at a certain time, it may be worthwhile to establish that as a routine.
Furthermore, engaging with professionals to review your progress can provide additional insights and validation. A collaborative approach enables tailored recommendations that can optimise your supplement timing strategy and improve health outcomes.
Ultimately, continuous monitoring and refinement can help you create a dynamic supplement regimen that evolves in tandem with your health, ensuring you maximize the benefits of timing your first supplement dose.
Frequently Asked Questions about Supplement Timing
What are the best times to take supplements?
The optimal times vary by supplement type. Generally, morning is ideal for energy-boosting vitamins, while evening is best for relaxation aids like magnesium or melatonin.
Does it matter if I take supplements with or without food?
Yes, it matters. Some supplements are better absorbed with food (especially fat-soluble vitamins), while others may be more effective on an empty stomach.
Can I take all my supplements at once?
It's generally not recommended to take all supplements simultaneously, as some may compete for absorption. Research their interactions and timing to maximize benefits.
What should I do if I forget to take my supplements?
If you forget, take them as soon as you remember unless it's close to the time of your next dose. Consistency is key, so try to integrate them into regular routines.
Are there any side effects from taking supplements?
Yes, some individuals may experience side effects from supplements, especially when they are taken incorrectly. Monitoring your body's reactions can help you adjust your intake.
Do supplements interact with medications?
Yes, some supplements can interact with medications, potentially altering their effectiveness. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you're taking both.
How long does it take to see results from supplements?
Results can vary widely based on the supplement and individual factors. Some may notice changes within days, while others may take weeks or longer to experience benefits.
Can I take supplements during pregnancy?
Consult your healthcare provider before taking any supplements during pregnancy, as some may not be safe or appropriate depending on individual health circumstances.
How do I choose the right supplements for my needs?
Assess your health goals, dietary habits, and any deficiencies. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor your supplement choices to your specific needs.
Is it better to take supplements in the morning or evening?
It depends on the supplement. Morning is typically best for energy boosters, while evening is preferable for sleep aids. Consider your specific health goals when making a decision.