Iron is the most abundant trace mineral in your body. Approximately two-thirds of the iron in your body is found in your hemoglobin, the protein portion of your red blood cells. Without adequate amounts of iron, your body cannot create healthy red blood cells. Iron supplements are used to help meet iron needs when you cannot obtain enough iron from your diet or you have a condition that decreases iron absorption.
Who Needs Iron
Most people obtain adequate amounts of iron from the foods they eat. Some people with chronic conditions, such as bleeding disorders, intestinal diseases, severe burns or stomach problems, have increased needs for iron and may benefit from taking a supplement. Pregnant women and people with kidney diseases who are on dialysis also have increased iron needs and often need an iron supplement.
Usage
Iron supplements are the most easily absorbed if they are taken on an empty stomach with water or fruit juice, according to MayoClinic.com. You should take iron supplements approximately 1 hour prior to eating or 2 hours after a meal.
The specific supplement dosage depends on several factors, including your age, sex, specific condition, form of iron and strength of the iron supplement. If you miss a dose, you should skip the missed dose instead of taking a double dose.
Side Effects
When taken properly, iron supplements are considered safe. They may cause some unpleasant side effects, however, such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, metallic taste in the mouth, numbness and tingling in the extremities, skin rash, itching, increased heartbeat, chills, chest pain, stomach pain, abdominal cramps and muscle pain. Less common symptoms of iron supplementation include weakness, double vision, chest pain, throat pain and red or black stools.
If you take too much iron, you may experience an iron overdose, characterized by diarrhea, fever, nausea, severe stomach pain and severe vomiting that may contain blood. If you experience any of these symptoms when taking iron, it is important for you to seek emergency medical treatment. If left untreated, iron overdose can lead to blue-colored lip, clammy skin, weak heartbeat, shallow breathing and seizures.
Contraindications
Certain foods can decrease your body's ability to absorb the iron in supplements. These foods, which include cheese, eggs, yogurt, milk, spinach, whole grains, tea and coffee, should be avoided when taking iron supplements. You should also avoid taking iron supplements in conjunction with calcium supplements or antacids, according to MayoClinic.com.
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