Iron-deficiency anemia is prevalent worldwide, and according to the World Health Organization, anemia prevalence from 1993 to 2005 ranged from 12.7 percent in men to 47.4 percent in preschool-age children. Although sufficient amounts of iron can typically be consumed from dietary sources, iron supplementation might be recommended for high-risk or anemic population groups.
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Anemia occurs when there is a deficiency in healthy red blood cells and a lack of oxygen-rich blood in the body, according to the National Anemia Action Council. Iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia. Additional causes include other vitamin deficiencies such as B12, the presence of chronic diseases and taking certain medications. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating and irritability; other symptoms can include feeling cold, having an irregular heartbeat, pale skin and brittle nails.
Individuals at Risk for Iron Deficiency
According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, high-risk groups include women who lose blood through menstruation, pregnant women, people who consume a poor diet, and people with a family history of anemia, certain chronic conditions or intestinal disorders. The National Anemia Action Council says infants and children are also at risk for iron-deficiency anemia.
Iron Recommendations
Medline Plus states that the recommended daily allowance for iron is 8 mg per day for adult males, 18 mg for adult females, 8 mg for adults 51 years and older, 9 mg for adult breastfeeding women and 27 mg per day for pregnant women. For children, the recommended daily allowance ranges from 7 to 15 mg depending on age and gender, according to Medline Plus.
Types of Iron Supplements
Types of iron supplements include iron injections, tablets, capsules and liquid drops, according to the National Anemia Action Council. Injections are typically recommended for people with severe iron deficiency. Liquid iron supplements are typically used for infants or young children; however, iron drops might stain teeth.
Forms of Iron in Supplements
Iron supplements contain two types of iron---ferrous or ferric forms. According to the National Anemia Action Council, ferrous iron is the form of iron in supplements that is best absorbed by the body, and most iron supplements contain the ferrous form. Types of ferrous iron include ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate and ferrous fumarate. All contain different amounts of elemental iron, which is the form of iron actually used by the body.
In addition to being more poorly absorbed by the body, some supplements containing ferric iron have not been determined to be safe in small children, according to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
Risks of Using Iron Supplements
A health-care provider should be consulted before taking any type of supplement, including iron. Any type of iron supplement can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation---and in high doses it might cause iron toxicity or death, according to Medline Plus. Iron supplements also have the potential to interact negatively with other medications.
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