What is the best time to take iron supplements?

This question is about Nutrition

Sarah Achleithner

The best time to take

iron supplements

is on an empty stomach. However, you can take them with 200 mg (or 8 ounces) of orange juice to enhance absorption and make them easier to swallow.

Some people may experience stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea when taking iron supplements, so if this is the case, you may want to consider taking iron with a small amount of food.

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How to take iron supplements for best absorption

Here’s how to take iron supplements for best absorption. 

  • Avoid certain foods. You should avoid milk, yogurt and other high calcium foods, as well as caffeine and high-fiber foods for at least one hour before and after taking your iron supplement, as these can interfere with iron absorption [

    1

    ]. Additionally, wait at least one hour before taking antacids or calcium supplements.

  • Follow the doctor’s orders. Take your iron supplement as prescribed by your doctor or dietitian since iron type and dosing can differ from person to person and may interact with certain medications.

While iron supplements may be beneficial for some, they might not be necessary for everyone. As such, it’s recommended to consume more iron-rich foods and cut out foods that hinder iron absorption to start increasing your iron levels.

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References

  1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements - iron. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/ 

How to take iron supplements for best absorption

Here’s how to take iron supplements for best absorption. 

While iron supplements may be beneficial for some, they might not be necessary for everyone. As such, it’s recommended to consume more iron-rich foods and cut out foods that hinder iron absorption to start increasing your iron levels.

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