Anemia is a condition that involves low levels of iron in the blood. Iron is important, since it transports oxygen throughout the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, people with anemia often face side effects such as fatigue and low immune system function. Eating iron in foods such as beef, chicken and tofu can boost the body's iron levels, but for some people, foods are not enough. Over-the-counter iron tablets are often recommended by doctors to help treat anemia.
Types of Iron Tablets
Several types of iron tablets are available. Coated tablets can be easier on the stomach than regular tablets, but they may not be absorbed as well. Regular iron tablets can come in either "ferrous" or "ferric" forms of iron, depending on how the elemental iron is formed. Iron tablets never come in pure elemental iron, but rather, are available bound to different chemicals, for example ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate or ferrous fumarate.
Effectiveness
According to the National Anemia Action Council, or NAAC, ferrous forms of iron are absorbed better than ferric forms. Therefore people with anemia may benefit by checking the labels of various iron supplements in the store to find the right kind. The NAAC also states that ferrous fumarate contains the highest amount of elemental iron per caplet, while ferrous gluconate contains the least.
Recommended Dose
The greater the dose of iron in each iron caplet, the less iron can be absorbed in one sitting. The NAAC recommends taking a smaller dose of an iron caplet, such as 50 to 60 milligrams of elemental iron, several times per day, instead of one large dose once a day. Every person has different nutritional requirements, so your doctor's specific dosage recommendation to you is the most important guideline to go by.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, iron tablets can upset a person's stomach, so it's best to take them with plenty of food at meal times. Taking iron supplements can also lead to constipation, states the Mayo Clinic, so sometimes doctors will suggest taking stool softeners along with the iron caplets. Eating a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can also combat constipation. Iron tablets tend to turn stools a dark brown to black color, but the Mayo Clinic explains that this side effect will not cause any harm.
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