Who Should Take Iron Vitamins?

Iron is vital in producing oxygen-rich red blood cells around the body. However, too little or too much iron in the body is undesirable. So, who should take supplemental iron? Is it safe on your stomach? Read on to find out.

Individuals with Iron-Deficiency Anaemia

Insufficient iron causes low levels of red blood cells. Symptoms may include weakness, extreme fatigue, brittle nails, poor appetite, clammy hands and feet, shortness of breath, chest pain and palpitations, pallor, lightheadedness, dizziness or headache, an inflamed tongue, and odd cravings for ice, starch or even dirt.

Pregnant Women

An expectant mother's iron requirement increases significantly to support the growing foetus and placenta.

Women with Heavy Periods

Women who bleed heavily during menstruation are at a higher risk of iron deficiency. Taking an iron vitamin daily is thus imperative in replenishing the iron lost and preventing anaemia.

Infants and Young Children

Preemies and babies with low birth weight may need iron supplements to support healthy growth and development. Breastfed babies may require iron supplements after the first six months, as it is usually during this age when the iron reserves obtained from the mother begin to deplete. Your paediatrician will recommend supplementation as necessary.

Vegans and Vegetarians

Heme or animal-derived iron is more easily absorbed than non-heme or plant-based iron. Therefore, those on a strict plant–based diet should take iron supplements to reach the recommended energy and nutrient intake (RENI).

Individuals with Certain Health Conditions

Those who have undergone gastric bypass surgery or have chronic kidney disease, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders suffer from iron deficiency due to poor iron absorption.

Iron Supplement Products

❖     Ferrous Sulphate Tab 200MG 60. Take this either 30 minutes before or two hours after a meal, ideally with a vitamin C supplement or orange juice for better absorption.

❖     Solgar Earth Source Koji Iron 30 Veg. caps. This slow-release and easy-to-absorb fermented iron is gentle on your stomach and suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

❖     Vitabiotics Feroglobin Plus Liquid 200ML. This one has a unique slow-release system, preventing excess iron in the stomach.

❖     Solgar Gentle Iron 20MG 180 Veg. caps. This one has a patented chelated formula that is gentle and non-constipating.

❖     Spatone Iron 28 Day. This gentle, easy-to-absorb low-dose iron water is vegan-friendly, GMO-free, gluten-free, and needs no refrigeration.

Shop online to discover our selection of iron supplements. If you need assistance in finding the right formulation for you, then visit your nearest Pearl Chemist Group branch and our staff will be happy to assist you.