Iron Supplements

Iron supplements are an essential part of the fight against iron deficiency anemia. An iron deficiency is usually detected at a regular visit to the doctor, if he or she checks your red blood cell count. If this simple blood test is not enough, your doctor may take your full medical history, accompanied by additional blood tests or bone marrow tests.

Iron supplements can boost the level of iron in your blood back up to normal levels within a couple months. They are best taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption. Some people experience stomach discomfort with this, and can usually take them with a small amount of food or juice.

Are Iron Supplements Right For You?

If your diet does not include the right amount of iron-rich foods, you will most likely need a supplement. Foods rich in iron include lima beans, black-eyed peas, broccoli, kale, liver, duck, lamb, beef, and pork. Vegetarians must take special care to ingest adequate amounts of iron that they will not get from meat; iron-enriched breads, pastas, and cereals can help.

Vitamin C aids in iron absorption, and adding a glass a day is a great way to assist your body in maintaining its iron level. If you keep your iron levels at or slightly above the recommended allowance, you may experience improved ability to concentrate, extra energy, and an overall improvement in your mood. Iron can also help build up your immune system and keep you illness-free.