Can Iron Make You Constipated

How Can You Relieve Constipation When Takingan Iron Supplement

Can a multivitamin make you constipated ?

If you must take a daily multivitamin or dietary supplement containing iron, there are a few things you can do to combat getting clogged up.

First, try simple, standard constipation treatments such as increasing your water and fiber intake and being more active, suggests Dr. Chen. Exercising is a tried-and-true, natural way to stimulate a bowel movement. Certain yoga poses â that involve twisting and forward bends â are particularly helpful for promoting poop.

“If needed, short-term use of osmotic laxatives can also be effective to soften the stool,” Dr. Chen says.

But if these methods aren’t enough to get things flowing, you can also try to change the way you’re obtaining your iron. For example, some individuals get their iron infused. Taking your iron intravenously doesn’t cause constipation, but this procedure has its own potential side effects, says Dr. Chen, who recommends less-invasive approaches.

“Some people find it better to take their iron every other day or switch to a liquid formulation so they can more easily the dose to the one that is more tolerable,” she says.

You may also consider using “slow-release” or “enteric-coated” iron supplements to reduce GI discomfort, but keep in mind that these forms decrease the amount of iron your body absorbs, says Dr. Chen, who stresses that you should only make these kind of changes with your doctor’s consent.

The Benefits Of Being Different

Studies have shown that patients taking Maltofer experience:

fewer gastrointestinal side effects, such as constipation and nausea*
the convenience of taking iron with food
fewer interactions with other medicines. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications

* Versus ferrous sulfate.

Iron Supplements That Dont Cause Constipation

Some types of iron supplements may increase the likelihood of constipation, as well as gas and bloating. Although its unclear why some people become constipated due to iron supplementation, you can reduce your risk by taking other forms of iron that are less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects. Discuss any concerns you about about supplementation with your physician.

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Who Can And Can’t Take Ferrous Sulfate

Most adults and some children aged 12 years and over can take ferrous sulfate under the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.

Ferrous sulfate may not be suitable for everyone.

To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your doctor before taking ferrous sulfate if you:

have had an allergic reaction to ferrous sulfate or any other medicine in the past
have a different type of anaemia that is not caused by low levels of iron
have any other conditions that affect your iron levels, such as haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis
have a condition that affects your red blood cells, such as sickle cell anaemia or thalassaemia
have a stomach ulcer, have had all or part of your stomach removed, or have other stomach or bowel problems such as inflammatory bowel disease
are receiving repeated blood transfusions
have noticed blood in your pee
have been diagnosed with an iron deficiency and are already receiving treatment for this

Malabsorption In The Gut

Does Iron Make You Poop? Every Question You Have ANSWERED! Health Briefly

The fluctuation of the female hormones, estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone during the menstrual cycle, may contribute to a malabsorption syndrome. This affects the bodys ability to absorb nutrients from food in the gut, aggravating the low blood iron levels by reducing the absorption of iron from food sources. The hormonal factors contributing to a malabsorption syndrome may also play a part in both peristalsis , inhibit other nutrient absorption and thereby contribute to constipation.

Attempting to correct this malabsorption syndrome by taking nutritional supplements, especially iron, may further aggravate the constipation. A characteristic feature of this malabsorption syndrome, which may not be present in every woman, is the difficulty in gaining weight, especially in young girls in their teens. However this may also be impacted upon by the poor dietary habits of young women who are more conscious of their body, focusing on their figure and weight than worrying about adequate nutrition.

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Do I Need To Take A Stool Softener With Iron

Though it may seem obvious, stool softeners are medications that soften your stool so that they are easier to pass. They are recommended when a person strains while eliminating or has difficulty during defecation, a condition referred to as occasional constipation.

Some oral iron supplements may result in gastrointestinal upset and occasional constipation. Your doctor may recommend stool softeners if you are experiencing constipation .

Taking an alternative form of iron, like Feosol Natural Release may minimize gastrointestinal complaints when compared to irons salts such as ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate.

Most users do not find it necessary to combine Feosol Complete with a stool softener. The two types of iron that make up Feosol Complete, heme and non-heme iron, maximize absorption while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea and constipation.

Is It Possible To Overdose On Iron

According to Livestrong, it is most certainly possible to experience iron toxicity by taking too much. In fact, even a mild case of iron toxicity can increase your chances of the following:

Heart attack
Diabetes
Cirrhosis of the liver

Insider tip: The type of iron supplement you are taking does make a difference when it comes to dosage. The tolerable upper limit set by the Institute of Medicine recommends that you take no more than 45 milligrams of iron per day.

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Find Natural Sources Of Iron

Eating iron-rich foods in your diet is the best way to avoid an iron deficiency and constipation from having to take iron pills. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says your body absorbs two to three times more iron from animal sources than from plants. Foods with the highest content of iron include lean beef, turkey, chicken and oysters.

If you are a vegetarian who does not eat meat, fish or poultry, the National Institute of Health suggests you need 1.8 times the recommended dietary allowance. The reason is youre getting your iron from plants in the form of non-heme iron that your body doesnt absorb as well as heme iron from animal foods. Good sources of iron for vegetarians include beans, dark green leafy vegetables, tofu, whole grains and nuts. Adding a source of vitamin C will enhance the absorption of iron.

Can You Stomach It The Vicious Cycle Of Anemia And Iron Supplements

Does Iron Cause Constipation?

Taking many of todays available oral iron supplements can make you feel as if you have swallowed a brick. The side effects can be so unpleasant that you stop taking them altogether and begin a vicious cycle of spiraling iron levels and unused products. With our innovative new iron supplement Ferritin Boost, the ironology team aims to break that cycle with a formulation that offers optimal absorption without the unpleasant stomach issues.

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Is Constipation During Pregnancy Ever Serious

Usually not, but occasionally constipation during pregnancy can be a symptom of another problem. If you have severe constipation thats accompanied by abdominal pain, alternates with diarrhea, or you pass mucus or blood, call your doctor or midwife immediately.

Also, straining during a bowel movement or passing a hard stool can lead to or worsen hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectal area. Hemorrhoids can be extremely uncomfortable, though they rarely cause serious problems. In most cases, they go away fairly soon after your baby is born. However, if the pain is severe, or if you have rectal bleeding, call your doctor.

Forms Of Iron That Are Easier On The Tummy

Iron supplements are available in a number of different forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferric citrate and amino acid chelate. The latter is the gentlest on the stomach and may be least likely to cause constipation.

You dont need a prescription to get iron, but you should select the form and dosage ordered by your doctor. Taking more iron than you need in supplement form may cause nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain, in addition to constipation. Excessive iron intake can also damage your organs.

References

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How Does Iron Cause Constipation

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. Subsequently, one may also ask, why do iron pills make you constipated?

A: Iron is hard on the digestive tract. Constipation is the most common side effect, but iron supplements can also cause nausea, indigestion, gas and bloating. The cause of the constipation is the iron itself, not any added ingredient. The ferrous gluconate dose is less constipating for many people.

Furthermore, do iron shots cause constipation? Iron infusions can cause some side effects, including: constipation. dizziness. loose bowel movements.

Thereof, is there an iron supplement that doesnt cause constipation?

An iron supplement that wont upset your stomach or cause constipation. Many women struggle with iron deficiency anemia. The most common challenge is the iron supplements that are commonly recommended as a solution is not well tolerate. It does not upset the stomach or cause constipation.

Do iron rich foods cause constipation?

A commonly reported side effect when taking iron supplements is constipation. Increasing fiber in the diet , increasing your fluid intake, and moderately increasing exercise will all help to relieve constipation. Do not take iron and calcium supplements together.

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What Is The Most Common Side Effect Of Iron

Why iron supplements are making you constipated and nauseous

If you are planning on taking an iron supplement, you may be wondering which side effect you are most likely to experience, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea?

In a literature review published in the journal PLOS ONE in 2015, researchers examined the side effect of iron pills in 43 different trials on 6,831 adults. They discovered that ferrous sulfate supplements were associated with the worst GI side effects.

In the 27 studies conducted, 12 percent of people experienced constipation from iron pills, while 11 prevent experienced nausea in 30 studies conducted. Lastly, iron pills caused diarrhea in 25 different studies, with 8 percent of the participants. Most importantly, they discovered that it was not the dosage of the iron supplements that caused these side effects.

So, if it was not the dosage then what were they doing wrong? Keep reading to find out how you can prevent these side effects when taking your own supplements!

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Avoid Iron Supplements If You Have These Conditions

If you have any of the following conditions, avoid iron supplements as they may increase your risk of iron toxicity.

Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis is a genetically inherited disease that can cause iron to accumulate to toxic levels in the body. Without treatment, this disease can lead to problems like liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, and heart disease. People with this condition should not use iron supplements or vitamin C supplements, which increase iron absorption.

African Iron Overload

First observed among the people of African descent, this is a rare condition caused due to the high intake of dietary iron. The condition is believed to result from the consumption of a traditional African beer, which contains dissolved iron from metal drums in which it is brewed. People with this condition should avoid taking iron supplements.

The excess iron accumulates in the immune cells in the bone marrow and spleen and compromises the infection-fighting ability of the immune system. As the condition progresses, iron also accumulates in the liver cells, causing toxicity, liver disease, and even cancer.12

What If I Forget To Take It

If you forget a dose, take another as soon as you remember. If its almost time to take the next dose, then do not take the missed dose at all.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to remember your medicine.

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Iron Infusions During Pregnancy

A pregnant womans need for iron increases as her fetus develops. As the fetus absorbs iron from her body, the mothers iron levels may drop, resulting in anemia. For that reason, doctors sometimes order iron infusions for pregnant women.

Infusions are often preferred over oral iron supplements because taking it by mouth can cause gastrointestinal side effects. However, iron infusions are usually reserved for the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Its not yet known if it is safe to administer iron infusions during the first trimester.

Iron Supplement Is Causing Constipation

Why Do Iron Supplements Cause Constipation?

There are other things you can do to help relieve constipation. You don’t mention your daughter’s age, but presuming she is old enough to eat table food, there are a number of foods that will help to keep the stools soft and moving. Fruits and vegetables are always good choices, and “P” fruits such as prunes, plums, and pears add lots of fiber that helps. Drinking some water every day goes a long way toward keeping the stools soft, too. If your child is a least a year old, you can have her drink four ounces of water two or three times a day.

If your daughter still has significant complaints from constipation, you should talk with her doctor about it.

Please note: This “Expert Advice” area of FamilyEducation.com should be used for general information purposes only. Advice given here is not intended to provide a basis for action in particular circumstances without consideration by a competent professional. Before using this Expert Advice area, please review our General and Medical Disclaimers.

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Floradix Iron + Herbs

This liquid is a fast-acting and extremely effective iron supplement. It contains both heme iron and non-heme iron. The first type is easily absorbable compared to the next. The addition of Thiamin, Riboflavin, B6, and B12 vitamins makes this supplement easy on the stomach and does not cause constipation.

The liquid is also very flavourful and must be refrigerated after opening. It must also be consumed within four weeks of opening the package. Consult a physician before using this supplement if you are already suffering from any other health problems.

Immediate Action Required: Call 999 Or Go To A& e Now If:

you or your child takes too much ferrous fumarate

Taking too much can cause vomiting, stomach pain or diarrhoea.

In serious cases you may vomit blood, bleed from your bottom, have a seizure or fit, or become unconscious.

If you go to A& E do not drive yourself. Get someone else to drive you, or call an ambulance.

Take the ferrous fumarate packet or the leaflet inside it with you and any remaining medicine.

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Nature Made Iron Tablets

This is a USP verified product. This means that the ingredients written on the cover are exactly what you get. This is a completely natural product with no added colors, artificial flavors, preservatives, starch, or yeast. The tables are very budget-friendly.

The components break down easily making it a very easy-to-digest tablet. The recommended dosage is to take 1 tablet before a meal. But make sure that you are consulting a physician in case you are already suffering from any other health problems.

What Are The Types Of Iron Supplements Out There On The Market

There are two common forms of iron supplements. Ferrous form or ferric form of iron are the two common types. The supplement that is the easiest for the body to absorb is ferrous iron.

Pills that contain iron are usually in ferrous form. There are three subcategories of ferrous iron that are sold on the market today: ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous sulfate.

When choosing any of these iron supplements its important to look at the elemental iron in each individual serving. Most iron supplements in the ferrous form are sold as a pill. Iron supplements are also available in capsules, drops, and liquids, coated and extended-release capsules.

Tablets and pills are better absorbed and cheaper as well. For adults who have trouble swallowing the pill form and also for children, the liquid form of iron supplements can be useful.

Coated tablets or extended-release capsules have fewer and less severe side effects. However, this form of iron supplement is not absorbed as well in the bloodstream.

Ascorbic acid or vitamin C can help iron be absorbed better. Iron acts better in an acidic/low pH environment.

Iron supplements are great to incorporate in your diet if you are deficient of this important mineral.

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How To Cope With Side Effects

What to do about:

feeling or being sick, stomach discomfort or heartburn try taking ferrous fumarate with, or just after, a meal or snack. Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. If you’re being sick, try small frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.
loss of appetite eat when you would usually expect to be hungry. If it helps, eat smaller meals more often than usual. Snack when you’re hungry. Have nutritious snacks that are high in calories and protein, such as dried fruit and nuts.
constipation eat more high-fibre foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals, and drink plenty of water. Try to exercise more regularly, for example, by going for a daily walk or run. If this does not help, talk to a pharmacist or doctor. Watch this short video about how to treat constipation.
diarrhoea drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.
dark or black poo this is common when taking iron and is nothing to worry about. Talk to a doctor if your poo is black and sticky looking, has red streaks in it, or if you also feel unwell in any other way.
black stained teeth rinse your mouth with water after taking the medicine.

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