Iron is an essential mineral for human health, responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. This mineral is part of many enzymes and is used in several cell functions. When you lose too much blood or become pregnant, you may need to increase your iron to keep from having iron-deficiency anemia, which may cause fatigue, weakness, compromised immune function and decreased work or school performance. To replenish your low level of iron, take iron supplements with certain vitamins included to enhance absorption.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant, also known as retinol. The daily recommendation for men is 900 mcg, or micrograms, a day and for women, 700 mcg. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that vitamin A is responsible for moving iron from its storage areas within the body. A low level of vitamin A will therefore cause a limitation in iron mobilization.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant required for a healthy immune system. In addition, vitamin C also works to create connective tissue, collagen and neurotransmitters. Vitamin C also enhances iron absorption. Parenting Science recommends eating an extra 63 mg of vitamin C per meal to increase the enhancement of the iron found in milk, eggs, meat or plant foods.
Multivitamin
In addition to an iron supplement, take a multivitamin that doesn't contain iron to increase iron absorption. Alternately, choose a "complete" multivitamin that contains iron and all of the essential vitamins and minerals needed for health and human development. In most cases, multivitamins will contain 100 percent of the recommended daily value of each vitamin and mineral contained in the supplement.
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