Iron

Iron Supplements

Did you know that iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder worldwide, with approximately 25% of the population being affected? Left untreated, iron deficiency leads to anemia, which can cause severe fatigue & exhaustion, pregnancy complications (including premature birth), cardiovascular problems and even death. Even mild iron deficiency can have dire consequences on overall health including; weakness and fatigue, compromised cognitive function, and susceptibility to infections. Indeed, iron deficiency is common; therefore, knowing more about iron supplements, their benefits and how to take them are beneficial. Keep reading to learn more.

Iron is an essential trace mineral, meaning we need it in relatively small quantities, that helps to transport oxygen throughout your body. It is an important component of hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs for transport throughout your body. Approximately two-thirds of the body’s iron is hemoglobin, so getting enough dietary iron is critical to your body’s production of healthy red blood cells. Without an adequate supply of healthy oxygen-carrying red blood cells, the body cannot get sufficient oxygen. This causes fatigue and exhaustion, as well as compromises cognitive and immune function. Incidentally, a lack of these red blood cells is what we refer to as iron deficiency anemia.

Iron is also essential for healthy cells, skin, hair, and nails. Without enough iron, your nails can become brittle, thin, and grooved, your hair may start falling out (a common tell-tale sign of low iron), and your skin can become dry, scaly, and itchy. Low iron also puts you at a higher risk for bacterial skin infections.

Iron rich foods include; red meat, beans, dark leafy vegetables, peas, dried fruit, iron fortified cereals and breads and seafood. However, it’s important to know that the amount of iron you can absorb from your diet is dependent on the other nutrients consumed. For instance, the animal source of iron (heme-iron), enhances the body’s ability to absorb the non-heme iron that’s present in plant foods. This is another reason why supplementation may be necessary. 

Benefits of Iron

• Corrects Iron Deficiency
• Increases Energy
• Relieves Weakness & Fatigue Associated with Low Iron

Who Needs Iron Supplements?

Many people are at risk of deficiency, including children, women who are pregnant, as well as vegetarians and vegans. Also, women, in general, are more susceptible to deficiency because of blood loss during their monthly cycle. Adult women typically need about 18mg of iron daily, but most only get 10mg; therefor, it’s easy to see why supplementation may be a good idea for many. Iron supplements are commonly recommended to treat anemia, correct nutritional deficiency, increase energy and exercise performance, as well as stimulate immune function.

Iron Supplement Potency Forms & Formats

Potency

Iron is available in a wide range of supplements; either as a standalone or in a multivitamin/multimineral formula, especially those for women or prenatal supplements. The typical iron supplement dosage in these supplements is 18mg of iron.

Forms

Iron supplements come in many forms with varying degrees of bioavailability and the ability to raise hemoglobin. Ferric pyrophosphate, is more stable and offers better bioavailability than other forms.

The chelated form of iron offers excellent absorption and does not cause constipation.

Floradix, a well-known iron supplement with the addition of B vitamins and vitamin C also offers optimal absorption and is non-constipating.

Formats

Iron supplements are available in a range of different formats including tablets, capsules, and liquids.

Choosing The Right Iron Supplement For Your Needs

It’s important to remember that when taking an iron supplement, high doses of supplemental iron can lead to mild side effects including GI issues such as; nausea, vomiting, cramps, and constipation. It’s also important to know iron can interact with other nutrients including calcium, which can inhibit the absorption of iron. Conversely, vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Beta Carotene enhance iron absorption. Iron; however, is best absorbed on an empty stomach.