If you plan to begin a vitamin regimen, you may be worried about how long it will take for the vitamins or supplements to work. The answer to this question depends on many factors, such as your health status and consistency in taking the vitamins. Also, the type of vitamin plays a key role. So, how long does it take vitamins to work? Here’s what you should know.

How Vitamin & Supplements Work.

Vitamins are simply micronutrients that support different body functions, such as strengthening your immune system and turning food into energy. Other functions include improving your digestion system and strengthening your bones. Before supplements begin working, they must first be absorbed from your bloodstream into the digestive tract. The absorption rate depends on the category of vitamin.

For instance, water-soluble vitamins include B vitamins and vitamin C. They are soluble in water and can be absorbed into your bloodstream. Only vitamin B 12 can be stored in the body. Therefore, you’ll need to replenish water-soluble vitamins regularly to prevent deficiencies. This is because extra amounts of these vitamins are flushed out of your body through urine.

The second category of vitamins is fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin K, vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin E. They are absorbed with your dietary fat and can be stored in your body, unlike water-soluble vitamins.

Keep in mind that you can get all the vitamins your body needs by eating a balanced diet that includes all essential nutrients. Your body can also make limited amounts of vitamin D and vitamin K. However, getting too much or missing key vitamins can affect your health negatively. Therefore, you must consult your healthcare provider before you start taking any vitamin supplements.

How long does it take Common Vitamins to work

Here are the timeframes for common vitamins or supplements. Note that individuals without vitamin deficiencies may not notice any significant difference.

Vitamin B 12

It can start improving your energy levels and lowering fatigue within a few days or a week if you’re already deficient. You can experience its benefits faster if you take vitamin B12 as an injection (requires a prescription) or dissolve it before taking it.

Biotin

Skin, nail, and hair supplements usually contain biotin. Some users claim that the supplement works within a short period to improve their hair and nails. However, scientific evidence of biotin’s effectiveness is limited. It may take a few weeks to months before you begin seeing results.

Vitamin D

If you already have low levels of vitamin D, it could take a few weeks or months to raise your body’s level of vitamin D. The duration will depend on the supplement dosage, your baseline level, and whether your vitamin D source is sun exposure or food.

Other vitamins and supplements include magnesium (which takes a week or more to start working), multivitamins (users begin to see changes within a few weeks), and fish oil or omega-3 (which takes 6-12 weeks to begin showing benefits).