|  | Diet Nutrition | Vitamins

Side Effects of Taking Too Much Iron

Iron is a necessary mineral in the body to promote an active, energetic and functional life. It can be lost through blood (menstrual cycles, giving birth), sweat and intestinal cell shedding. Approximately 1/3 of the world's population is iron-deficient, but this can be easily remedied with iron supplements. However, as with all medications, there are side effects that you should be aware of before adding this mineral to your diet.

  1. Identification

    • Iron is a mineral that makes up hemoglobin, the oxygen in the blood. When adults are found to be iron-deficient, it is recommended that they supplement the iron in their blood. An average dose is a 100mg pill per day or increased consumption of iron-rich foods.

    Forms

    • While iron supplements are found in pill form, the mineral also exists in foods such as chicken, meat and seafood. The body can also draw iron from wine, leafy green vegetables, dried fruit and acidic sauces.

    Children

    • According to Prevention magazine, excessive iron consumption is the leading cause of poisoning in children. Death can result from as little as a 200mg dose, which is why adults with iron pills should keep the bottles out of reach of children.

    Physical Effects

    • Increasing iron in the body can lead to constipation and dark stools. Nausea and vomiting are also a risk. More seriously, iron levels that are too high may cause diabetes, cancer, Huntington's disease and an irritation of already-present arthritis symptoms. The highest risk is heart disease (a heightened risk for smokers and patients with high cholesterol).

    Serious Illness Effects

    • Iron can have the effect of stressing oxygen levels of patients who are on kidney dialysis. Further, patients suffering from hepatitis C may experience further liver damage when consuming iron. Patients with diabetes should not consume iron because it can interact with their internal organs.

    Interactions

    • Before starting a regimen of iron supplements consult with your doctor and let her know whether you are taking any other drugs or medications. Some, such as oral contraceptives, thyroid medication, aspirin and acne medication, may interact with iron absorption.

Vitamins - Related Articles