James, I take my straight with a spoon, although some people will mix it into food or a protein shake. Personally, I don't think "when" matters much, as your body can store it without problems. I take mine in the morning, it's convient and I don't forget about it. Because I am on a fairly high-carb diet, 2 tbsp (plus the 2 of fish oil) should be plenty for me. The low carbers seem to use more.