I don't think Russ has seen this post yet, so let me jump in, if I may. You normally don't want to take Algin with other supplements, because of Algin's "absorbing" properties. For example, if you take Algin with other vitamins or herbs, the Algin could absorb some or all of the other things you're taking and hence, decrease their effectiveness.

It's okay to take Algin with food...I do this often, especially if I'm going to eat food that either chelates mercury (such as cilantro in Mexican or Thai food) or is a source of mercury exposure itself (such as fish). In these cases, I'll take Algin both before AND after eating these things.

My typical dose is about 4 capsules before and after eating a meal with cilantro, but if I'm eating fish, I'll take 6-8 capsules before and after. This may sound like a lot, but I'm very sensitive to the effects of cilantro, and fish is even worse for me. However, with enough Algin, the effects are minimal and I can then enjoy a nice salmon dinner once in a while. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Hope this helps!