Iron is a very important mineral. It is an essential component in hemoglobin, which is used to carry oxygen in the blood and bring it where it is needed in the body. It is also used in the creation of new cells. You can get it from fish, meats and poultry as well as beans, spinach, dried fruit and fortified cereals. Those who do not get enough iron from their diet can take supplements to increase their iron intake.
Function
Iron supplements are used to prevent or treat iron deficiency, which is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Most people can meet their needs with the amount of iron contained in a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement, but those at higher risk of iron deficiency might need a separate iron supplement, including pregnant women, premature babies, older infants and toddlers, teenage girls, and those with intestinal and kidney problems, according to the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements.
Symptoms
The symptoms for iron deficiency include being tired and weak, being more susceptible to infections, not doing well in school or work, developing more slowly in childhood, having trouble keeping your body temperature consistent and having an inflamed tongue, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. A blood test can confirm whether you are iron deficient, and if this is the case you will be told to increase your iron intake from foods and the doctor will often prescribe iron supplements, as well.
Considerations
Taking iron supplements can sometimes cause side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting. Sometimes starting with a smaller dose and working up to the full dose can minimize these unpleasant side effects, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Another possible way to counteract these side effects is to increase the amount of fiber you consume, according to Medline Plus.
Warning
It is possible to overdose on iron and take too much. This can lead to iron being stored in the organs and damage to the heart and liver, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Single-nutrient iron supplements should not be taken without speaking with your doctor first, especially for those who are at low risk for iron deficiency, including women who are menopausal, and men.
Expert Insight
The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends getting most of your nutrients, such as iron, through food rather than supplements. Should you take supplements, you should keep iron intake under the tolerable upper limits, or UIs, unless advised to do otherwise by your physician, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. The UIs are 40 mg per day for children between 7 months and 13 years old, and 45 mgs per day for those 14 and up.
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