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Benefits of Iron Supplement

In the human body, iron is vital as it plays a role in numerous processes. Most importantly, iron plays an integral role in the transportation of oxygen through the bloodstream. Iron can also affect brain function as it aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Those with low iron often deal with many symptoms, most commonly fatigue or tiredness, so it is important to keep iron levels up. While iron supplements may help do so, they are not for everyone, so learn a bit more about who can benefit and if you may be one of those people.

  1. Iron Deficiency

    • Serious iron deficiency is commonly referred to as iron deficiency anemia, and it occurs when there is not enough hemoglobin in your blood to transport oxygen. There are many symptoms of anemia. Common ones are fatigue, slow cognitive functioning, depression, a swollen tongue, weakness, cold hands and feet, and brittle nails. If you think you may be anemic, see your doctor for proper diagnosis.

    Pregnancy

    • Iron supplements are not only beneficial, but necessary for someone who is pregnant. A pregnant woman requires significantly more iron due to higher blood volume, blood loss during delivery and the fact that iron is important to the health of the fetus. If a woman does become anemic during pregnancy, there are many negative effects, such as premature delivery and low birth weight of the child. In some cases, it can even lead to death of the fetus.

    Less Fatigue During Menstruation

    • All women's menstrual cycles vary, but some tend to have a heavier flow and greater fatigue than others. One reason for this fatigue is that a woman loses more iron during menstruation as they lose more blood. Iron supplements can help keep a woman's iron levels normal during menstruation, thus lessening fatigue. Talk to a doctor if you think you may benefit from iron supplements for menstruation.

    Vegetarians

    • Vegetarians may also benefit from iron supplementation as they are often at risk of not meeting the dietary requirements for healthy iron intake, due to their elimination of meat. While they can receive iron from non-meat products, this iron is less easily absorbed than the iron found in meat products, which means that while they may be eating enough, their body is not absorbing enough.

    Chronic Illness and Low Iron

    • Those with a chronic illness, for instance a person with leukemia who is undergoing chemotherapy, can benefit from taking iron supplements as well. Many chronic illnesses, especially ones that involve the intestinal tract where iron is absorbed, can greatly deplete a person's iron levels causing greater fatigue and an increased chance of the illness worsening. In some cases, iron supplements can help by not only lessening fatigue, but helping the body to fight against the illness it is suffering.

    Warning

    • While pregnant or menstruating women, vegetarians and those with chronic illnesses are at the greatest risk of iron deficiency anemia and therefore can benefit the most from iron supplements, others can too. If you have any symptoms of anemia, you should see your doctor immediately to discuss the possibility that you may have, or that your symptoms could be the sign of a greater problem.

      Before deciding to take iron supplements, always discuss it with your doctor first. Iron supplements should never be taken without doctor approval as a person who self-prescribes iron may be putting themselves in danger. Overloading on iron can cause damage to the other organs in your body, including your heart, liver and brain, so make sure to consult your doctor before taking these supplements.

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