Anemia is a condition that occurs when your body becomes depleted of iron. Typically, this condition develops over a period of time if your iron intake is less than the amount of iron you need each day. The amount of iron stored in your body eventually becomes too low to produce enough red blood cells and hemoglobin, which causes anemia. This disease can occur as a result of low iron intake, lack of iron absorption or abnormal blood loss. Because women lose blood each month through their menstrual cycle, they are at a greater risk for anemia. Vegetarians are also at a higher risk, as they typically do not ingest as much iron as meat eaters.
Dosage
Because women are at a greater risk for anemia than men, their daily need for iron is higher. In contrast to the recommended daily intake for men of 8 mg, the recommended daily intake for women is 18 mg. While most people get their daily intake through food, those with anemia may need iron supplements. These supplements are often prescribed in doses 50 to 60 mg larger than the recommended daily intake. A physician should always be consulted before you take iron supplements.
Types of Supplements
Two types of iron supplements are available: ferrous and ferric. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, your body more easily absorbs ferrous forms of iron, such as ferrous fumarate. The ODS also recommends breaking large doses of iron into smaller doses taken throughout the day. This can increase the amount of iron your body absorbs from each dose.
Increasing Iron Absorption
Iron absorption is increased when vitamin C and iron are consumed at the same time. Eating iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements with foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges, can help you absorb more iron. Certain substances, such as calcium and phytates, decrease iron absorption, the Centers for Disease Control reports. Foods containing these substances, such as coffee, dairy products and legumes, should be eaten separately from iron supplements.
Side Effects and Overload
Supplemental iron can have side effects, which include nausea, constipation and abdominal pain. It is important to have your doctor monitor your iron levels if you take iron supplements as too much iron can cause more severe side effects. When you ingest too much iron, the excess is stored in your organs, such as your liver and heart. This can eventually damage the organs. Men and women who no longer menstruate should be especially cautious when taking iron supplements, as they do not need as much iron as women and teenagers.
Member Comments