We are often asked, "When is the best time to take diatomaceous earth?" We want to make sure you feel confident that you are taking DE at the time that is right for you, so we want to give this question a nice, thorough answer. There are several factors to consider, and the answer isn't the same for everyone.
Best Time of Day
First, consider how diatomaceous earth affects you. Some people get a huge energy boost from DE, while others feel tired after they take it (probably a symptom of detoxing). Others don't feel a difference in their energy level at all. If DE gives you energy, you should probably take it first thing in the morning so you can use that energy throughout the day. If DE makes you tired, take it in the evening so you can sleep it off. If you don't notice a difference in your energy level after you've been taking DE for a few days, then you're probably fine to take it at whatever time is most convenient for you.
Meals and Medication
Along with finding the right time of day to take DE, it's important to consider how DE might interact with other things you are taking into your body. We recommend taking DE with water on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after ingesting food, supplements, or medication. This ensures that the DE will be able to absorb toxins from your digestive system instead of nutrients. However, many people don't like the gritty taste and texture of DE, so they take it with milk, juice, smoothies, oatmeal, and other beverages or light foods to help DE go down easier. While DE may absorb a very tiny amount of nutrients from your food, it won't be enough for you to miss out on the nutritional value of your food. And plenty of people take DE with food and still report getting great benefits from it.
Although we've never heard of DE causing problems with medication, we strongly encourage you to talk to your doctor to make sure DE won't interfere with your medication. And again, take DE at least an hour before or two hours after taking medication.
Taking DE Long Term
One final consideration is how long you should take DE. Some say to take it ten days on and ten days off for ninety days, while others say you should take it daily without breaks. It really just depends on who you ask. But one thing is for certain: we know people who have been taking DE for years without missing a day, and they see benefits come from it the entire time. Feel free to experiment with this and find what works best for you.
What's Best for You
That's really the bottom line - find out what works best for you. Be careful with any medications you are taking, find the time of day that works best for you, and stay consistent with whatever you decide. If you do these things, diatomaceous earth can remain a fundamental part of your healthy lifestyle for years to come.