Does folic acid really need to be taken with a meal, and if so does anyone know why?

[Imps7]

Morning!

Question is as above really. For the past 8 months I have taken my folic acid first thing in the morning when taking my temp. I've seen a few comments that it needs to be taken with a meal and I have just read the packet for the first time () which also states this.

I will no doubt forget to take it if I wait later in the day, but does taking it on an empty stomach mean that I'm not getting the full benefits or something?

Oh, am not pregnant btw, still TTC.

Thanks in advance, you lovely knowledgeable people.

[CleanSheetsAndSmoothLegs]

Oh my God, does it? I've been taking it first thing in the morning too. Damn.

[Imps7]

Oh, thank god it's not just me who doesn't read the label!!!

[tummytickler]

Bugger - I take mine first thing with water before a cup if tea, but no food! Damn. Hope somebody comes along to tell us that it is ok

[ColdSancerre]

I always take first thing with my tea too.

[Imps7]

Well I reckon if there's enough of us who do it, it must be okay!

[mrsden]

I think it's only because it can upset some people's stomachs if they take it when their stomach is empty. If it doesn't cause you any problems then it isn't a problem I don't think. I take mine last thing at night.

[desperateoldie67]

Phew...cos I take mine whenever I remember LOL! :o

[SaulGood]

It aids absorption too if you take it with food. But I think 99.9% of people take it in a way in which they can remember. I wouldn't worry about it tbh.

[Sn0wGoose]

I take it with food, but only because if I don't it comes straight back up again!!

[CoteDAzur]

I wouldn't worry about it. Continue to take it first thing in the morning. Or put it out of your mind and start taking it when you know you are pregnant.

[itsmekatielou]

ha ha, its really funny i've just seen this cos i just swallowed mine with a cup of tea and haven't eaten yet (don't plan to for at least an hour or two!) ha ha

[Numberjacker]

Boots own brand says take one a day with liquid, so am sure it is ok, they all must be made up of pretty much the same stuff.

[dontcarehow]

I remember sitting in on a pharmacy lecture and they said something about taking things with meals, I think its because those that advise taking with a meal can cause gut rot if you don't. But I think that might be relating to medications rather than supplements, so as long as you feel ok, stay as you were!

[kat2504]

This thread has given me an excellent excuse to eat a chocolate bar so as not to take today's pregnacare on an empty stomach. Thanks :)