The U.S. National Institutes of Health, or NIH, advises that the element iron is important for human health. You can obtain the recommended amount of iron by taking a multivitamin that contains iron along with other vitamins and minerals, such as One a Day Women's multivitamin. It is important to know how much iron this vitamin contains, as your iron requirements may vary by gender, age and certain medical conditions.
Function
The NIH reports that iron is instrumental in several processes of the human body. Iron is present in proteins that deliver the oxygen that you breathe in to your body's cells. Iron also regulates the growth of your cells. Iron deficiency may cause lethargy, a weakened immune system and anemia.
Iron Absorption
The Colorado State Extension Department explains that your diet may affect your body's absorption and use of iron. For example, Vitamin C intake can improve iron absorption and Vitamin A allows your body to release stored iron for use.
The NIH adds that there are two types of iron that come from foods: heme and non-heme. Heme iron, found in poultry, red meat, and fish, is easier for your body to absorb. If you do not eat meat, a multivitamin like One a Day Women's may be a better choice than getting iron from your diet alone.
Iron Content
One a Day Women's multivitamin contains 18 mg. of iron per tablet. The NIH states that women age 19 to 50 years require this amount of iron each day; therefore, the iron content of One a Day Women's is sufficient for most adult women. If you are pregnant, the NIH recommends a higher iron intake of 27 mg. per day. Lactating women require less iron, only 9 mg. daily. After age 50, women require only 8 mg of iron each day.
Considerations
Always consult your doctor before taking One a Day Women's multivitamins. He can advise you whether the amount of iron these vitamins contain is compatible with your specific medical history. For example, if you are postmenopausal or have certain genetic diseases such as hemochromatosis, the NIH advises that you should probably avoid iron supplements unless your doctor diagnoses you as iron deficient for any reason.
Warning
You should keep One a Day Women's multivitamins out of the reach of children at all times. The Colorado State Extension Department reports that the maximum amount of iron that the body can tolerate is 40 mg. per day for children under 14 years old and 45 mg. a day for anyone 14 and older. Consumption of greater amounts of iron can cause illness or death due to iron toxicity. Just three One a Day Women's multivitamins contain 54 mg. of iron, above the tolerable threshold for any age.
Member Comments