Iron supplements are commonly given to individuals who have iron-deficient anemia. This most commonly occurs in pregnant women and adolescents, and although it is a common ailment, it can be difficult to address because iron, as with all metals, can be very hard for the human body to digest. Therefore, it's important that iron supplements are taken in a specific manner so they can be properly digested by the body.
Step 1
Wait to take an iron supplement until you have an empty stomach. Generally, this means waiting until 1 or 2 hours before or after a meal.
Step 2
Swallow your iron supplement along with 8 oz. of water or fruit juice (4 oz. for children).
Step 3
Mix liquid iron supplements with 4 to 8 oz. of water or fruit or tomato juice or use a dropper to apply the iron supplements to the back of the tongue and wash them down with juice or water. Liquid iron can stain your teeth, so you should take your supplements with a straw to avoid staining.
Tips and Warnings
- Clean iron stains from your teeth by brushing them with baking soda. Take iron supplements with meals if they cause stomachaches when taken on an empty stomach. Keep supplements out of the reach of children. Store your iron supplements in a dark, closed cabinet or container at room temperature.
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