8 Reasons To Take Iron Supplements

by Paul White Dietician

Like calcium, vitamins, and other nutrients, iron is also a crucial element for our body. It keeps us active all day so that we can do our tasks well. It is present in numerous vegetables and fruits, which you can devour to maintain optimal iron levels. However, if the iron concentration in the blood is relatively low, you have to take iron supplements. The deficiency of iron can disturb the transportation of blood to vital organs of the body.

According to the studies, around 15% of iron is stored in the body for emergency needs. If you do not consume an adequate amount of iron, your body starts using this stored iron, which eventually makes you giddy and weak. Not just that, in such a situation, you can also become anemic and a victim of heart problems. That’s why it is crucial to get your iron level on time and start taking iron substitutes. Unfortunately, many people avoid consuming iron alternatives because of their metallic taste. If this is the problem with you, you can go with chocolate flavor liquid iron supplements . They are excellent in taste and easy to absorb. From toddlers to adults, devouring optimum amounts of iron is essential.

Now let us dive into the 8 key reasons to take iron supplements.

●If You Are Expecting

During conception, our body’s iron needs increase extensively. Unfortunately, it is not possible to meet it with natural foods. It is why gynecologists often suggest pregnant women consume liquid iron supplements. If women have enough iron stores, the chance of C-section and preterm delivery reduces.

●If You Have A Baby

Babies get enough iron from their moms when they are in the womb and preserve it for future needs. However, their body entirely uses this iron store during their first six months of life. After that, it becomes essential to feed them iron drops for adequate growth and development. But, it is crucial to consult a pediatrician before choosing any iron supplements for infants.

●If You Are Menstruating

The menstruating females lose blood in large quantities every month. And this also affects your blood iron content. So, to prevent yourself from the catastrophic effects of iron deficiency, it would be better to start taking iron drops, liquids, and pills on time.

●If Your Practice Sports

If you are an athlete or a sports person, then you also need iron supplements. Let us explain why. You sweat a lot during training and workouts, which breaks down the red blood cells and affects your performance. Therefore, you should switch to iron substitutes to keep the oxygen supply uninterrupted in the body.

●If You Are On Kidney Dialysis

Those who are going through kidney dialysis also need extra iron. This is because our kidneys make a hormone called erythropoietin. This hormone sends signals to our body for making RBCs. If the kidney becomes dysfunctional, a person can become prey to anemia.

●If You Are Suffering From ADHD

Studies have shown that low levels of iron and ferritin is the key cause of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Ferritin is a protein that helps to store iron in the cells. ADHD is more common in children. However, it can be treated with pediatric liquid iron drops as well as iron-rich meals.

●If You Are Going Through Menopause

Like menstruation periods, women’s bodies lose significant amounts of blood during menopause. As a result, it makes them extremely weak and leads to anemia. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to iron stores during postmenopause and don’t hassle consumer iron substitutes if needed.

●If You Are Facing Hairfall

As mentioned above, skin & hair cells receive less oxygen due to deficiency of iron, which can make them dry and damaged. Therefore, if you are also experiencing excessive hair fall, you should get your iron levels checked. And in case it is not up to the mark, start taking iron supplements.

The Bottom Line -:

To increase iron absorption, try to consume it with vitamin C-rich foods. Also, talk to your doctor before taking specific iron supplements. Moreover, don’t take it more than the prescribed limit as it can be toxic, especially for small kids.

Originally published at https://forbesmarket.net on August 5, 2021.