Knowing how to take iron pills without getting sick worries people with iron deficiency. Iron aids in blood circulation, which is an essential function in our bodies. That’s why people with iron deficiency take iron pills, which unfortunately make some feel sick. How can you avoid this?
You should take iron pills on an empty stomach, which may cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. The best way to avoid these issues is by eating a high-calorie snack an hour before or with the pills. Taking iron pills with orange juice and other vitamin C-rich foods can also enhance iron absorption.
The Benefits of Taking Iron
Iron is essential for the overall health of our bodies. It aids in blood circulation and improves cognitive functions, which helps you to stay alert. Taking iron contributes to healthy skin, nails, and hair growth. It also boosts energy and is recommended for highly active people such as athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Individuals who suffer from fatigue can take iron to improve their immunity and energy. It also aids in maintaining a healthy pregnancy and increases blood supply in women suffering from heavy periods.
Vegetarians also benefit from taking iron pills. That’s because their diet mainly contains non-heme iron, which is poorly absorbed by the body.
The Disadvantages of Taking Iron
While iron is a beneficial supplement, it makes some people suffer stomach pain and vomiting.
Overdosing on iron can also cause severe reactions such as seizures, organ failure, internal bleeding, and death. That’s because excess iron turns into free iron, which is pro-oxidant.
When pro-oxidants build up in organs such as the liver, they cause organ damage and increase the chances of getting cancer.
Iron pills can also reduce the absorption of medications such as Levothyroxine used to treat hypothyroidism and some antibiotics.
How to Take Iron Pills Without Getting Sick
Iron pills make some people suffer from nausea, vomiting, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually experienced because iron is mainly taken on an empty stomach.
If you feel sick after taking iron pills, consider taking them an hour after eating or just after food. It may reduce the rate of iron absorption in your body, but it will also reduce your chances of getting sick.
You may also enhance iron absorption by taking it with a Vitamin C-rich snack or drink such as orange juice. Also, avoid spicy and rich foods and stick to simple high-calorie snacks and meals.
Avoid taking calcium supplements and soy products when taking iron pills because they are iron inhibitors. That means you cannot take your iron pills with milk.
Also, remember to avoid taking iron with tea, coffee, or wine because these beverages contain iron inhibitors.
Conclusion
Now you know how to take iron pills without getting sick. Use these tips to enhance iron absorption in your body from pills and supplements.
If you are still feeling sick, talk to your doctor. You could be suffering from an allergic reaction to the iron pills, which will require a change in medication.
Your doctor will be able to diagnose this and other problems associated with your iron intake and give you a solution.
