Important Reasons to Include Iron or its Supplement in a Diet

A healthy diet is essential to staying fit. Iron in particular is a vital component. It provides numerous health benefits to a person such as, it helps the red blood cells in distributing oxygen to all parts of the body. However, many people do not consume enough iron to meet their daily dietary needs. Iron deficiency subsequently results in iron deficiency anaemia and the symptoms include low appetite, irritability, and fatigue. According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), iron deficiency is mostly seen in children and pregnant women.

Why is it important to include iron in a diet?

• The importance of iron is discussed below:
• Iron plays a vital role in distributing oxygen to all parts of our body which helps in the proper functioning of the body.
• It helps in the development of the brain and our cognitive functions.
• It helps in the growth and development of children.
• Iron helps in producing and delivering energy within the body, which allows a body to function correctly.

Substitute for iron-rich foods:

Despite the benefits of iron-rich foods, many people fail to consume enough of them. The result is that they are more predisposed to certain health issues. Consuming iron supplements helps in bridging dietary iron gaps. Such supplements are available in several forms such as tablets, liquids, chewable tablets, and capsules. It has been observed that in most people, after having the supplements for two months, blood cell counts usually go back to a normal range.

Tips for taking iron supplements:

• Ideally, most iron supplements should be taken after having a small amount of food. If taken on an empty stomach, they may result in diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
• Avoid consuming calcium and antacids along with iron capsules, tablets, or liquids. Wait for a minimum of two hours after consuming calcium and antacids, before taking an iron supplement.
• Follow the dosing prescribed by your doctor as iron needs vary from individual to individual and between different age groups as well.

Side-effects of over consuming iron supplements:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation (iron tablets)
• Teeth staining (iron-rich liquids)

Iron supplements are beneficial for people who do not have adequate iron rich foods in their diet. While iron supplements provide the same benefits as do iron rich food, excess consumption of these supplements can lead to side effects mentioned above. Hence, it is important to have only as much iron as your body needs and not go overboard. 

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Created on Jun 10th 2019 00:02. Viewed 390 times.

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