Iron supplements are primarily used to restore low iron levels in the body. Iron deficiency is a very common condition, especially for women. If you have been feeling exhausted all the time lately, or cannot climb the stairs without losing your breath, then you may have low iron levels in your body.
A lot of people do not pay much attention to the iron content in their food. Some do not even consider iron as a nutrient. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, low iron levels are the most common form of nutritional deficiency in the U.S., with nearly 10% of women having iron deficiency.
In the next part of this article, we will discuss why iron is a very important nutrient for the body. Along with that, we will discuss why you need iron supplements and everything that you need to know about the different kinds of iron supplements available in the market.
Why Does Your Body Need Iron?
Iron is an essential nutrient that plays several key roles in the human body. The most important one is that it keeps you healthy, fit, and full of energy. The main purpose of the mineral in the human body is in the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is that component that enables red blood cells (RBCs) to carry oxygen throughout the body.
Most human cells in the body have iron content, but iron is most essentially needed and found in RBCs. Without proper iron levels in the body, also termed iron deficiency, a person may have symptoms like exhaustion, poor concentration, frequent fatigue, and illness. This is when one may need iron supplements.
Iron Supplements: Types, Uses, And Benefits
According to statistics, approximately 10 million people have iron deficiency in the U.S., and around 5 million have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). The most effective way to reverse iron deficiency in the human body is by consuming them.
Iron supplements are also used for the treatment of deficiency anemia. Regular consumption of iron supplements is also recommended by medical professionals if a person’s diet does not have the necessary iron content needed by the body.
There are different kinds of iron supplements available in the market. From natural iron supplements to specialized and the best iron supplements for women, these can help people who are prone to low iron levels. These supplements help a person maintain the optimum iron levels in the body without solely depending on their diet as a source of iron.
Iron supplements are available in all kinds of forms which include tablets, chewable tablets, capsules and also as liquid iron supplements. Ferrous sulfate is the most common iron supplement.
The Amount Of Iron Your Body Needs
The amount of iron needed by a person’s body depends upon their sex and age. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for elemental iron in the human body is as follows. It must also be noted that vegans and vegetarians have different iron requirements. You can also find specialized vegan iron supplements in the market right now.
For Infants
- Between 0 to 6 months: 0.27 mg
- Between 7 to 12 months: 11 mg
For Children
- Between 1 to 3 years: 7 mg
- Between 4 to 8 years: 10 mg
For Males
- Between 9 to 13 years: 8 mg
- Between 14 to 18 years: 11 mg
- Between 19 years and older: 8 mg
For Females
- Between 9 to 13 years: 8 mg
- Between 14 to 18 years: 15 mg
- Between 19 to 50 years: 18 mg
- Between 51 years and older: 8 mg
- When pregnant: 27 mg
- When lactating (19 years and above): 9 mg
The best iron supplements for women can be extremely beneficial during their pregnancy, especially if they fail to intake enough iron through dietary sources. For children and infants, you can also find liquid supplements which are easy to feed them.
People Who Can From Iron Supplements Benefits
Iron is not just useful for the transportation of oxygen in the body. Along with that, it also helps preserve a number of vital body functions. Iron can also help improve general energy levels and concentration. It can also improve gastrointestinal processes. It also aids the immune system and body temperature regulation process.
The best iron supplements for women can be very beneficial for a healthy pregnancy and even for better athletic performance in both men and women. As a matter of fact, female athletes very commonly have iron deficiency.
People who are deficient in iron will need it before anyone else. However, a lot of people can benefit from consuming.
- Women are experiencing heavy menstrual flow.
- Infants and young children.
- Frequent blood donors.
- Pregnant women.
- People are suffering from gastrointestinal disorders like Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- People who have recently undergone gastric surgery.
- Vegan iron supplements for people who follow a vegan diet.
- Certain blood disorder patients (thalassemia and sickle cell anemia).
- Alcoholics.
When To Know That You Need To Take Iron Supplements?
Iron deficiency comes with clear symptoms. Here are some of them
- Cold hands and feet.
- Shortness of breath.
- Lack of energy.
- An abnormally fast heartbeat.
- Craving for unusual substances like clay or dirt.
- Gum or tongue sores.
- Difficulty swallowing food.
The best course of action in such cases would be to get your blood ferritin levels tested. Consult with a doctor, and you can get the ideal dosage of them you need if you have a deficiency.
Final Thoughts
Iron supplements do not generally have any side effects. Iron is absorbed best on an empty stomach. However, in some cases, it can cause stomach cramps or nausea in some people.
In such cases, you should consult your doctor and go for natural iron supplements and a small amount of food. It will help you avoid any such side effects!
