How to Administer Liquid Iron

Iron is a nutrient that is stored largely in the red blood cells and plays an important role in the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements states that children from infancy to 18 years old should take in between 7 and 15 mg of iron each day. Adults need 8 to 27 mg daily, depending on age and gender. Iron is found in many foods but can be boosted through dietary supplements if needed. One of the forms in which iron supplements is available is a liquid, or oral solution. Liquid iron must be administered properly to ensure that the mineral is absorbed into the body correctly.

Things You'll Need

• Iron supplement
• Water or juice
• Drinking straw
• Toothbrush
• Baking soda

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix the liquid iron supplement with either water or a fruit juice such as apple, orange or tomato juice. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements suggests that calcium can inhibit the absorption of iron supplements, so mixing with milk is not advised. Doses of liquid iron vary according to your age, gender and nutritional requirements; an adult dose ranges from 10 to 30 mg each day, while a child might take 6 to 10 mg of liquid iron daily. The iron should be stirred into an 8 oz. glass of water or juice for adults, and 4 oz. of liquid for children, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 2

  Administer liquid iron either one hour before eating a meal or two hours after you have eaten, if possible. The mineral absorbs into your body more easily and effectively on an empty stomach. If the dietary supplement upsets your stomach, you may take liquid iron with a small snack.

• 3

  Drink the liquid iron and water or juice combination with a straw to prevent staining of the teeth. Iron supplements in an oral solution form can cause a dark discoloration on the teeth; using a straw limits the exposure of the iron to your teeth. If you are administering liquid iron to a baby that cannot use a straw, use a medicine dropper and put the liquid as far back on the child's tongue as possible, without causing gagging.

• 4

  Limit your consumption of dairy products, coffee, tea, spinach and whole grain cereal and bread products while you are taking liquid iron. You may eat these items, but try not to eat them an hour before taking your supplement or two hours afterward. These foods could interact negatively with your iron and prevent adequate absorption.