Iron is a mineral that is important for the transportation of iron in your blood. Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition in pregnant women, premature babies and babies with low birth weight, toddlers and teenage girls. The World Health Organization states that approximately 30 percent of the world's population has iron deficiency anemia. Iron supplements can be used to treat the condition if eating an iron-rich diet isn't helping or if it's not practical for the patient.
Step 1
Take your iron supplement at the same time each day to avoid forgetting your dose. Choose a time of day when you will have an empty stomach. Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, though it may cause digestive discomforts. If this is the case, you can take it with food.
Step 2
Swallow iron supplements with a glass of orange juice. The vitamin C in orange juice will help your body absorb more of the iron. Do not take your iron supplement with a glass of milk or at the same time you take a multivitamin that contains calcium, or a calcium supplement. Calcium blocks the absorption of iron.
Step 3
Take your iron supplement with a stool softener unless contraindicated by your doctor. Many iron supplements can cause constipation due to unabsorbed iron in your digestive system. A stool softener will help prevent constipation from occurring. Check with your doctor if you have any questions.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult with your doctor if you have difficulty taking your iron supplement due to stomach cramping, nausea or constipation. You may be able to cut the dose in half until these symptoms resolve, or there may be another form of iron that would be better tolerated by your body.
Things You'll Need
- Iron supplement as recommended by your doctor
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