Iron supplements can help prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia, a condition with symptoms of weakness and fatigue. Without sufficient iron, the body cannot make hemoglobin, a protein needed to deliver oxygen to cells, tissues and organs. Some teas may hinder your absorption of iron from supplements.
Absorption
Tannins in black and green teas can inhibit the body's absorption of nonheme iron, the type of iron in plant-based foods and iron supplements. While the body can absorb 15 to 35 percent of heme iron from animal products, it absorbs only 2 to 20 percent of nonheme iron. There is a significant relationship between tea consumption and low iron levels in preschool children, notes the National Cancer Institute. Consuming tea between meals, however, may not affect the body's absorption of iron. Try to take your iron supplement at least two hours before or after having black or green tea.
Herbal Teas
Unlike black and green teas, herbal teas do not contain tannins. Some herbal teas, including those made with red raspberry leaf, dandelion, nettles and yellow dock, contain high amounts of iron, notes the American Pregnancy Association.
Boosting Absorption
MedlinePlus recommends taking iron supplements on an empty stomach for the best absorption. However, if you cannot tolerate the supplement's side effects, taking it with food may help. Avoid taking iron supplements with foods that hinder absorption, such as teas, coffee, dairy products and cereals. Some foods may boost absorption, including those containing vitamin C, such as citrus fruits. Consider taking iron supplements with a cup of herbal tea and a slice of lemon, for example.
Side Effects
Iron supplements can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dark-colored stools and other gastrointestinal distress. Beginning with a smaller dose or dividing the recommended amount into several smaller doses may help minimize side effects, notes the Office of Dietary Supplements.
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