Iron supplements are commonly used by people who suffer from anemia or iron deficiency.

Iron is an essential mineral that plays an important role in the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. However, while iron supplements can be beneficial, they also come with risks that you need to be aware of. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential side effects and risks associated with iron supplements.

What Are the Risks of Taking Iron Supplements?

One of the most significant risks associated with iron supplements is iron toxicity. Iron is a mineral that the body needs in small amounts, and excess iron can be toxic. Symptoms of iron toxicity include:.

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal pain
Weakness and fatigue
Loss of appetite
Joint pain
Dark urine
Gray or yellow stool
Disorientation or confusion
Seizures or coma (in severe cases)

Iron toxicity is more common in children, who may accidentally ingest large quantities of iron supplements. However, adults can also develop iron toxicity if they take too much iron over an extended period.

To avoid iron toxicity, it’s essential to follow the recommended dosage on the label and not exceed it without explicit instructions from a doctor.

What Are the Side Effects of Iron Supplements?

Aside from iron toxicity, iron supplements can also cause a range of side effects, some of which can be inconvenient or uncomfortable, but others may be more severe. The side effects include:.

Nausea and vomiting
Constipation or diarrhea
Heartburn
Abdominal cramps
Black or dark-colored stool
Metallic taste in the mouth
Stomach upset
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Skin rash or itching
Joint pain
Increased risk of infection

Most of these side effects are mild and will usually diminish as the body adjusts to the iron supplements. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, you should stop taking the supplements and consult your doctor.

Who Should Not Take Iron Supplements?

While iron supplements can be beneficial for people who have a confirmed iron deficiency or anemia, some people should avoid taking iron supplements altogether. These groups include:.

People with hemochromatosis or other iron overload disorders
People with liver disease
People with ulcerative colitis or other inflammatory bowel diseases
People with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or intestinal surgery
People with chronic kidney disease
Pregnant women (without a doctor’s explicit instructions)

If you fall into one of these categories, you should speak with your doctor before taking iron supplements.

How to Safely Take Iron Supplements?

If you have an iron deficiency, your doctor may recommend that you take an iron supplement. To ensure that you’re taking iron supplements safely, follow these tips:.

Take iron supplements on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food (taking iron with calcium, for example, will not be absorbed well).
Avoid taking iron supplements with tea, coffee, milk, or other dairy products (these can interfere with iron absorption).
Take iron supplements with vitamin C or orange juice (vitamin C helps the body absorb iron).
Do not exceed the recommended dosage on the label (unless explicitly instructed by your doctor).
Store iron supplements out of the reach of children.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double up on doses.

Remember, if you have any concerns about taking iron supplements, speak with your doctor.

They can perform blood tests to confirm an iron deficiency, help you choose the right type of iron supplement, and monitor your condition while taking the supplements.

The Bottom Line

Iron supplements can be an effective treatment for anemia or iron deficiency, but they come with risks and side effects that you need to be aware of.

To avoid iron toxicity and minimize the risk of side effects, take iron supplements as directed on the label, do not exceed the recommended dosage, and speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.