Iron is essential to health and is necessary for the production of red blood cells in the body. Too little iron results in iron deficiency anemia, a condition that causes shortness of breath, tiredness, decreased immune functioning and learning problems, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Healthy adults and children are normally able to take in enough iron through dietary sources, but in some cases, supplementation may be necessary. Unfortunately, iron supplements can leave a metallic or brackish taste in the mouth. However, several methods of disguising this taste are available to make the supplements easier to tolerate.
Step 1
Mix liquid iron supplements in fruit juice or tomato juice to mask their metallic taste. Orange juice is a good choice for mixing with iron supplements because vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.
Step 2
Use a measuring spoon to measure your dose of liquid iron supplement and then add a few drops of honey to the spoon to help disguise the taste. Be certain to measure the supplement before adding the honey to ensure dosing accuracy.
Step 3
Stir the supplement into applesauce, fruit gel or sherbet. According to Drugs.com, taking iron supplements with food also helps lessen some side effects, including upset stomach.
Step 4
Crush chewable iron tablets into a powder and add to pudding, yogurt or other semisolid foods. Mix very well. Unfortunately, calcium may inhibit iron absorption in the body, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements; therefore, high-calcium foods, such as yogurt, are not ideal for making iron supplements taste better.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are using a dropper to administer liquid iron supplements, place the dose as far back on the tongue as possible to help minimize the bad taste.
- Iron overdose can be fatal. The risk of serious illness and death is greatest in children, according to the National Institutes of Health. Any suspected overdose requires emergency medical attention.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring spoon
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