Do You Take Iron Supplements Regularly? Here Are 7 Side Effects You Should Know

SadaNews - When the diet does not provide enough iron to meet the body's needs, many resort to taking iron supplements, available in various forms and compositions. In some cases, these supplements are necessary, but they may come with some side effects that warrant attention, especially when taken daily.

Below, the website "Verywell Health" lists the side effects of iron supplements:

1. Digestive Disorders

Oral iron supplements can cause mild digestive issues in some people, such as:

Stomach upset

Constipation

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Vomiting

Diarrhea

To reduce these symptoms, it is recommended to take iron supplements with food, as taking them on an empty stomach may irritate the digestive system.

2. Dark Stools

Changing the color of stools to black or dark is a common side effect of taking iron tablets. However, you should inform your doctor immediately if you notice:

Red streaks or blood in the stool

Severe stomach cramps

Sharp or persistent abdominal pain

3. Metallic Taste in the Mouth

Some people experience an unpleasant metallic taste when taking oral iron supplements, which is due to the sensitivity of taste buds to iron salts. This taste often diminishes after a while and can be minimized by taking the supplement with food.

4. Tooth Discoloration

Some people opt for liquid supplements to reduce digestive issues, but these types may cause tooth discoloration.

To avoid this, it is advised to mix the supplement with water and drink it using a straw, as well as to regularly brush teeth with toothpaste containing baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.

5. Zinc Absorption Deficiency

Iron and zinc share absorption pathways within the body; therefore, taking iron supplements with a dose of 25 mg or more of "elemental" iron may decrease zinc absorption and lead to lower levels in the blood.

6. Serious Side Effects from Excessive Doses

Taking large amounts of iron (more than 20 mg per kg of body weight) may cause serious intestinal harm, such as:

Inflammation and ulcers of the stomach lining

Loss of fluids and blood

Shock

Tissue damage

There are also genetic conditions, such as hemochromatosis, leading to iron accumulation in the body, which increases the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and heart disease. Individuals with this genetic condition are advised to completely avoid iron supplements.

In severe cases (such as taking 60 mg/kg for a person weighing 68 kg), an overdose may lead to:

Multiple organ failure

Coma

Seizures

Note: Immediate medical care should be sought in case of an accidental overdose.

7. Interaction with Other Medications and Supplements

Iron supplements can interact with other medications and supplements, impacting their effectiveness or absorption. It is best to avoid taking them with the following medications:

- Levodopa: Iron supplements reduce its absorption.

- Levothyroxine: Reduces its effectiveness in treating thyroid problems.

- Proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole): Reduce the absorption of non-heme iron from food.

- Antibiotics (like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones): Iron may interfere with their absorption.

- Calcium: May hinder iron absorption; it is preferable to take them at different times of the day.

- Vitamin C: Enhances iron absorption but may increase side effects in some individuals.

Therefore, consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting iron supplements, especially if you are taking other medications.

How Much Iron Do I Need Daily?

Most people obtain their iron needs from a balanced diet, but certain factors may increase the risk of iron deficiency, such as:

Age

Gender

Race

Health status

Dietary patterns

Social or economic status

In these cases, the doctor may recommend taking iron supplements daily to meet the recommended need, whether from food, drink, or supplements.

In certain special cases, like pregnancy or anemia due to a specific disease, the doctor may recommend iron supplements for a temporary period as part of a specific treatment plan.