Iron Supplements: How to Reduce Side Effects
- Side Effects from Iron Supplements If you have ever taken iron as a supplement, you know that side effects can be a problem. Iron supplements are known to cause a lot of side effects. ...
- Improving absorption: Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach [1 hour before or 2 hours after food]. ...
- Avoiding Certain Foods and Supplements with Iron ...
- Dosing Changes ...
How can I increase my iron absorption?
Take your supplement with food to help reduce stomach upset (ensure that you check the label closely as some products don’t recommend this because food can significantly reduce absorption) Use a stool softener to alleviate constipation Switch to a different class of iron supplements #3: Switch to a Difference Class of Iron Supplements
How do I take my iron supplement?
Take your supplement with food to help reduce stomach upset (ensure that you check the label closely as some products don’t recommend this because food can significantly reduce absorption) There are different classes of iron with different brands within each class (ie. Polysaccharide-Iron Complex (PIC), Heme Iron Polypeptide or ferrous salts).
What are the treatment options for iron-deficiency anemia?
Depending on the cause of iron-deficiency anemia, your treatment will vary. Your healthcare provider may recommend eating foods that are high in iron. They may also suggest an oral (taken by mouth) iron supplement such as ferrous sulfate. If you can’t take an oral supplement, you may need to get iron through a vein(intravenously).
Are iron supplements safe to take?
Taking supplements in the form of iron salts and iron pills can help your body maintain healthy levels of iron. Iron supplements are generally safe if taken as advised by your doctor, and the dosage varies depending on how severe your condition is. The most common side effects associated with iron supplements include:
How can I reduce the side effects of iron?
1. If more than a small amount of iron supplement is recommended per day, splitting it into two or three doses over the day is likely to reduce side effects. At any one time, no more than 60 mg of elemental iron should be taken.
How do I stop feeling sick after taking iron tablets?
However, if it upsets your stomach, you can take it with or after food. A doctor (or a pharmacist) may recommend taking ferrous sulfate with orange juice or a vitamin C supplement. Vitamin C is believed to increase the amount of iron absorbed by the body. Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a glass of water.
How can I make my iron pills easier on my stomach?
Try to take the pills on an empty stomach about 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. But you may need to take the iron with food to avoid a stomach ache. Do not take antacids or drink milk or caffeine drinks (such as coffee, tea, or cola) at the same time or within 2 hours of the time that you take your iron pills.
How long does it take for your body to adjust to iron supplements?
– It usually takes 2 to 3 weeks of taking regular iron supplements before your symptoms start to improve. – You may need to keep taking iron for several months to build up your iron reserves and keep your anemia from returning.
Why do I feel worse after taking iron tablets?
Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but many people find that taking iron supplements this way causes them to feel nauseous, or even experience stomach cramps. Because of this, having a bit of food in your stomach when you first start taking your iron pills may help.
What are the symptoms of too much iron?
Signs and symptoms may include:Joint pain.Abdominal pain.Fatigue.Weakness.Diabetes.Loss of sex drive.Impotence.Heart failure.More items...•
Which form of iron is easiest on the stomach?
Feosol Natural Release is a great iron alternative for those concerned about upset stomach. Feosol Complete is a great choice for those with a sensitive system as it minimizes side effects such as constipation and nausea.
Why does iron make your stomach hurt?
Causes of Irritation Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, which can often cause stomach irritation. Also, because iron can lead to constipation, this can often cause abdominal pain and an upset stomach. In some cases, taking too many iron supplements can lead to stomach irritation.
What should you not take with iron supplements?
You shouldn't take iron supplements with milk, caffeine, antacids or calcium supplements. Try to take your iron supplement with vitamin C (for example, a glass of orange juice) to increase absorption.
When should I take iron morning or night?
The ideal time for taking an iron supplement is one hour before a meal, or two hours after, to ensure an empty stomach.Take your supplement before bed. This is likely to be the easiest time to have an empty stomach. ... Have a large breakfast or lunch. ... If you need food, plan to eat a piece of fruit with your supplement.
Can iron pills make you dizzy?
Iron supplements can cause side effects like dizziness, fainting, and hives.
What helps with bloating from iron pills?
Eat more whole grain foods and vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, zucchini and celery. Take it slow, since these foods often increase intestinal gas. Fiber supplements are safe; generic brands can save you some money. Start with low doses, since these products also increase gas.
Which form of iron is easiest on the stomach?
Feosol Natural Release is a great iron alternative for those concerned about upset stomach. Feosol Complete is a great choice for those with a sensitive system as it minimizes side effects such as constipation and nausea.
Can ferrous sulphate make you feel sick?
Ferrous Sulfate Side Effects Some people do experience stomach discomfort that ranges from heartburn to nausea and vomiting, but taking ferrous sulfate with food instead may help avoid or lessen it. Constipation or stools that are black or green also occur.
Does iron deficiency cause nausea?
If you're researching, “can anemia cause nausea?” the answer is yes. Anemia and nausea is an important aspect in understanding how certain symptoms are related to one another. A lack of oxygen to your brain and other organs cause by low iron levels can cause dizziness which is usually related to nausea.
Which iron tablets are gentle on the stomach?
Best Overall: Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron This iron supplement is easy on the stomach. This supplement has iron amino acid chelates (ferrous bisglycinate). "It can be taken with food to reduce irritation while still being absorbed well," Caro says. Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron is also a top pick from ConsumerLab.
How much iron is in a pill?
Iron is paired up as a salt with a variety of other ingredients. If you take 300 milligrams (mg) of ferrous sulfate, you’ll get 60 mg of iron within each dose. If you take 300 mg of ferrous gluconate, you’ll only have 34 mg of iron in each dose.
Which part of the body absorbs iron?
Slow-release forms of iron may be less constipating, but they have their downside. The very first part of your intestine (the duodenum and the first part of your jejunum) is where iron is absorbed best.
How to get rid of gas in the stomach?
Eat more whole grain foods and vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, zucchini and celery. Take it slow, since these foods often increase intestinal gas. Fiber supplements are safe; generic brands can save you some money. Start with low doses, since these products also increase gas.
Can iron supplements cause bloating?
Constipation is the most common side effect, but iron supplements can also cause nausea, indigestion, gas and bloating. The cause of the constipation is the iron itself, not any added ingredient.
Can you take iron before it releases?
A slowly releasing iron pill can travel past this area before releasing iron, so that you don ’t ever have a chance to absorb it. To avoid constipation, drink plenty of fluids and try to be more physically active. If you need fiber, go with dietary changes before supplements.
Can you take ferrous gluconate with food?
You may notice that you have less constipation if you take your iron supplement with food. This is generally not recommended, though, because you won’t absorb as much of your iron dose if you take it with your meal.
What are the side effects of a syringe?
Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, and palms of hands. convulsions (seizures) pale, clammy skin. shallow and rapid breathing. unusual tiredness or weakness. weak and fast heartbeat. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention.
Can medicine cause side effects?
Side Effects. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
How to get rid of iron?
The body has no easy way to dispose of extra iron. The most effective way to get rid of excess iron is blood loss.
How does the body regulate iron levels?
The body regulates iron levels by adjusting the rate of iron absorption from the digestive tract. Hepcidin, the body’s iron-regulatory hormone, is responsible for keeping iron stores in balance. Its main function is to suppress the absorption of iron. Basically, this is how it works ( 4. Trusted Source.
Why is iron overload bad?
It is caused by the body’s regulatory system failing to keep iron levels within healthy limits. For most people, iron overload is not a concern. However, it is a problem for those who are genetically predisposed to excessive absorption of iron from the digestive tract.
Why is iron so tightly regulated?
There are two reasons why iron levels are tightly regulated within the body: Iron is an essential nutrient that plays a role in many basic body functions, so we must get a small amount. High levels of iron are potentially toxic, so we should avoid getting too much.
What is the role of iron in the body?
It is a crucial part of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is responsible for delivering oxygen to all of the body’s cells . There are two types of dietary iron:
Why is iron important for the immune system?
The immune system uses iron to kill harmful bacteria, so some amount of iron is needed to fight infections. Elevated levels of free iron stimulate the growth of bacteria and viruses, so too much iron can have the opposite effect and increase the risk of infections. ).
Where is heme iron found?
Heme iron: This type of iron is only found in animal foods, mostly in red meat. It is absorbed more easily than non-heme iron. Non-heme iron: Most dietary iron is in the non-heme form. It is found in both animals and plants.
What to do if you are not happy with Iron Maiden?
So, if you’re not happy with your current supplement, there are things you can do to stay on track and complete the needed therapy. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Content and advice provided on The Iron Maiden is for information purposes only and should not serve as a substitute for a licensed health care provider, ...
What are the different classes of iron?
There are different classes of iron with different brands within each class (ie. Polysaccharide-Iron Complex (PIC), Heme Iron Polypeptide or ferrous salts). The different irons offer varying available elemental iron, dosing regimens, and different side effects profile. Learn more about the different classes of iron and available brands here →
How to take a syringe?
Now, don’t go playing doctor and taking matters into your own hands because reducing your dose could make treatment less effective. Instead, here are a few tips: 1 Drink more water and spread out your doses if possible (start with half the recommended dose and gradually increase to the full dose) 2 Take your supplement with food to help reduce stomach upset (ensure that you check the label closely as some products don’t recommend this because food can significantly reduce absorption) 3 Use a stool softener to alleviate constipation 4 Switch to a different class of iron supplements
How to help a stomach upset?
Take your supplement with food to help reduce stomach upset (ensure that you check the label closely as some products don’t recommend this because food can significantly reduce absorption) Use a stool softener to alleviate constipation. Switch to a different class of iron supplements.
Can iron supplements cause stomach upset?
Side effects like stomach upset, nausea, constipation or diarrhea are common when taking iron supplements, although some classes of iron are better tolerated than others.
Can iron supplements help you feel better?
Iron supplements may help you feel better rather quickly, but your iron level and iron stores will take much longer to be regained. Learn more about how long you should take your iron supplement →. Even if side effects are getting you down, it’s still important to keep taking your supplement as directed by a healthcare professional. ...
How long does it take for iron to replenish?
Iron pills, if taken correctly, can replenish the iron in your blood to normal after about two months, but MedlinePlus suggests you should continue to take the supplements for another six to 12 months to build up the iron stores in your body's bone marrow. If you think you are feeling worse after taking iron supplements, ...
How does iron affect the body?
Symptoms of an iron overdose can affect the entire body and include: Stomach and intestines: liver damage, nausea and vomiting blood, metallic taste in mouth, black bloody stools. Respiratory system: buildup of fluids in the lungs. Heart: low blood pressure, fast and weak heartbeat, shock, dehydration.
Why is iron important for muscle growth?
Iron supports muscle contraction and helps maintain healthy connective tissue. It is also necessary for neurological development, synthesis of hormones and proper growth. Advertisement. The amount of iron you need on a daily basis depends on your age and gender.
What are the symptoms of iron poisoning?
Nervous system: chills, fever, seizures, headache, drowsiness, apathy, coma. Skin: bluish-colored lips, fingernails and palms of hands; skin flushing, pale skin. Symptoms of iron toxicity may decrease in a few hours, then return again after one or more days. Advertisement.
Can you take iron pills without iron?
Without sufficient iron, your body cannot produce the number of normal red blood cells needed to keep you healthy. Your doctor may recommend that you take iron pills, but you should be aware there are side effects of iron pills and you may even experience feeling worse after taking iron supplements.
Is too much iron bad for you?
It is important to make sure you take the correct dosage because too much iron can be dangerous. Excessive iron from supplements can accumulate in your organs and could result in advers e health complications including damage to your liver , warns Mayo Clinic. Advertisement.
Can iron pills cause liver damage?
Iron pills, available as various ferrous ion salts, can be beneficial to treat a deficiency with the proper dosage but taking too much can result in health risks of toxicity, including acute liver damage.
How to take iron supplements effectively
Take them on an empty stomach. If this causes stomach upset, switch to taking them with a small amount of food to avoid this problem.
What are different forms of iron supplements?
Oral: Iron supplements can be taken orally in the form of pills and syrups. Ferrous salts used in oral iron supplements include ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate and ferrous succinate. It may take up to 2 months for iron levels to become normal while taking oral iron supplements.
How long should you take iron supplements?
For most people, hemoglobin and iron levels usually return to normal after 2 months of iron therapy. In some cases, however, iron supplements may have to be continued for another 6-12 months.
Top What Are the Side Effects of Taking Iron Tablets? Related Articles
Essential minerals are a class of nutrients that are vital for maintaining the body’s health. They are inorganic components that play a multitude of functional roles in human cells both physiologically and biochemically.
Why do you need to increase iron levels fast?
need to increase iron levels fast to avoid medical complications or a blood transfusion
How long does it take to get iron infusions?
You will receive iron infusions over the course of one or a few weeks for your treatments. Iron infusions take time and can be more expensive than other types of anemia treatments.
Why do pregnant women need iron infusions?
As the fetus absorbs iron from her body, the mother’s iron levels may drop, resulting in anemia. For that reason, doctors sometimes order iron infusions for pregnant women. Infusions are often preferred over oral iron supplements because taking it by mouth can cause gastrointestinal side effects.
How long does iron last?
Depending on your situation, the benefits of an iron infusion may last anywhere from several months to a few years.
Where does iron infusion take place?
What happens during an iron infusion. An iron infusion usually takes place at a hospital or hemodialysis center. A doctor or other healthcare provider, such as a nurse, will use a needle to insert a small tube into a vein. This small tube is known as a catheter. It’s usually put into a vein in your arm or hand.
Can you take iron supplements with anemia?
Iron infusions are usually prescribed by doctors to treat iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is typically treated with dietary changes and iron supplements that you take in pill form. In some cases, though, doctors may recommend iron infusions instead. You may require an IV infusion if you:
Can iron poisoning cause anaphylactic shock?
The symptoms of iron toxicity may come on quickly, which can cause anaphylactic shock. Or they may come on slowly over time. Iron toxicity that develops over time leads to too much iron in the body’s tissues. The test dose and the slow infusion rate are both done to prevent this complication.
