Iron supplements: Yay or nay?

Vamoose Killers

For someone that doesn't eat red meat, spinach etc...are these worthwhile?

RentDayBlues

You shouldn't take any supplements unless you need them. If you are worried about your iron or ferritin levels go to the doctor and get a simple blood test done - they will be able to tell you easily. Too much of a good thing is bad also

EileenG

Normally, I'd say a small supplement is no harm, but iron is one of the few that too much can be dangerous. Ireland has one of the highest levels of haemochromatosis (iron overload) which can be fatal.

However, if you are taking a general multi-vit (centrum or something similar) which has some iron, you should be ok.

If you are female, the risk of iron overdose is lower, we have an obvious way of disposing of excess iron.

all_smilz

EileenG wrote: »

Normally, I'd say a small supplement is no harm, but iron is one of the few that too much can be dangerous. Ireland has one of the highest levels of haemochromatosis (iron overload) which can be fatal.

However, if you are taking a general multi-vit (centrum or something similar) which has some iron, you should be ok.

If you are female, the risk of iron overdose is lower, we have an obvious way of disposing of excess iron.

its a particularly celtic affliction! *nerd*

Haemochromatosis is an iron overload
disorder. It is a genetic condition that
causes people to absorb excessive amounts
of dietary iron. This excess absorption may in time
lead to serious organ damage.
Haemochromatosis is especially prevalent among
the Irish and other Celtic people.
The Irish Haemochromatosis Association is a
support group for haemochromatosis patients
and their families.
We also welcome those who have a personal
or professional interest in haemochromatosis

yourmano

Do not. Unless you have low iron. No. For the aforementioned reason. Many of my family suffer from that, it's tough.

EileenG

yourmano wrote: »

Do not. Unless you have low iron. No. For the aforementioned reason. Many of my family suffer from that, it's tough.

Mine too. My father's doctor comes over once a week to take a pint of blood from him while they split a bottle of wine!

By the way, giving blood frequently is great for keeping your iron levels normal, and they always need blood!

yourmano

Definite strong advocator of giving blood, the whole gang of us all head in every 3 months from my team and do it, worthwhile, keeps us healthy and does good.