Iron is a nutrient substance your body needs for purposes that include the transportation of oxygen in your bloodstream and normal growth and division in your cells. While some people get enough of this nutrient from dietary sources, others need to take supplements to maintain proper intake. Timed-release supplements deliver a single dose of iron over an extended period of time.
Basics
Timed-release iron supplements are available in a variety of forms including extended-release tablets and capsules and tablets with a special coating that delays absorption of the nutrient in your body. When taken at high dosages, iron can produce a number of unpleasant side effects including gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting. Timed-release products are designed to help you avoid these problems by introducing iron into your system gradually over time.
Absorption Problems
While use of extended-release or coated supplements can help reduce unwanted side effects, it also increases the chances for poor absorption of iron into your system, according to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, or ODS. In addition to reducing your nutrient intake, the presence of unabsorbed iron in your body can also make it difficult to detect blood in your stools. In turn, this difficulty may contribute to the undetected presence of serious intestine- or bowel-related health concerns. According to MayoClinic.com, failure of your stool to turn black over time is a strong indicator of poor absorption of a timed-release supplement.
Alternative Approaches
As an alternative to timed-release products, the ODS recommends that you take regular iron supplements throughout the day in small, divided doses. Timing these doses with your meals will further reduce your problems. As an extra measure of protection, when you begin taking an iron supplement, start with half of your indicated dosage and work up to a full dosage gradually over time. Be aware that taking iron supplements with a variety of foods -- including milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese, caffeinated beverages, spinach and whole grain products -- can also reduce your absorption rates.
Considerations
While lack of black-colored stool may indicate poor absorption of a timed-release supplement, the presence of black-colored stool may in rare cases indicate the onset of intestinal bleeding. To resolve any potential problems, report the coloring of your stool to your doctor in all cases. In most instances, levels of iron intake that can produce unwanted side effects are given to individuals who have a condition called iron deficiency anemia. If you don't have this disorder, your recommended supplement intake may not produce any significant side effects. Contact your doctor and a nutritionist for more detailed information on iron supplements and iron intake.
Member Comments