Calcium and iron are two of the most abundant minerals in multivitamins that can cause side effects. Both minerals may irritate the lining of the stomach. Calcium, iron and other minerals in multivitamins may also cause problems in your digestive system. You may take minerals into your body through your food, but if you do not get sufficient quantities of them that way, you can take them as supplements. You should seek the advice of your physician before trying any new supplements to make certain they will not cause problems with your health conditions or potentially dangerous interactions with your medications.
Constipation
If you take calcium or iron as part of your multivitamin or as separate supplements, you may experience the temporary, uncomfortable but non-serious side effect of constipation. Both minerals can slow down the movement of your bowels, making it more difficult for your intestines to move stools through them and out your rectum. You may feel cramps in your abdominal area and as if your body needs to have a bowel movement but cannot expel the stools. Your stomach may feel bloated because of the constipation. Iron itself slows down the moving of stool in the bowel. Calcium also slows the process of stool moving and again constipation will occur. Minerals naturally cause the stools to become harder in your bowels, making it increasingly difficult to pass them.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may occur because the intestinal lining of your body becomes irritated from iron, Drugs.com reports. Iron can be caustic on your teeth and the linings in the intestinal and digestive system. You may experience a need of going to the bathroom several times to have a urgent bowel movements. Your stomach may become gassy as well, meaning you may feel bloated. Your stools may become discolored as well as loose and watery. Diarrhea does not classify as a serious adverse reaction to minerals such as iron, but if you have it in severe form or for a prolonged period, seek the help of your doctor.
Nausea
Nausea is another common side effect of minerals, Drugs.com reports. Because of the potential for the stomach lining to become irritated, increased pressure may occur in the digestive system, causing a slight reflux of food to occur as well as a feeling of nausea or an upset stomach. If you continue to experience this side effect, you should report this symptom to your doctor. Taking your vitamin or mineral supplement with food may help reduce this effect. Call your doctor if you continue to feel sick. Vomiting may occur as a result of an irritated stomach lining. You may feel nauseated and want to vomit. If this becomes an ongoing problem, you should talk to your doctor for advice.
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