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How to Digest Iron Supplements

Anemia is a common condition found mostly in adolescents and pregnant women and is caused by the body failing to absorb enough iron into the blood stream as a result of poor nutrition, growth spurts and hormonal imbalance (pregnancy). Iron supplements (ferras sulfate), provided in varying forms, are dietary vitamins used by anemic individuals as a mean to provide the body with the missing nutrient; however, the supplement can be extremely hard to digest for some people. If you have been told to take iron supplements by a medical professional, follow a few simple steps to ensure that you do not have any digestive issues when taking your supplements.

Things You'll Need

  • Iron Supplement
  • 8oz of Water
  • Food
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Take iron supplements with a full glass of water either one hour before or two hours after a full meal. In order to eliminate possible side effects, swallow the supplement whole as opposed to chewing or crushing the pill.

    • 2

      Take the supplement with food or right after meals if your stomach gets upset. Make sure that you still take it with a full glass of water to assist in the digesting process.

    • 3

      Adhere to your doctor's recommended dosage to avoid an overdose. If you believe you have taken too much iron, immediately contact the poison control center. The recommended dosage for an adolescent with anemia, according to the CDC, is approximately 60mg of elemental iron 1 to 2 times a day; however, doctors will typically prescribe higher amounts for some adults or in severe cases of anemia.

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