Drinking iron tablets every other day helps the body rest and absorb better
According to research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, taking iron tablets every other day helps the body absorb this mineral more effectively. The mechanism lies in the hormone hepcidin, the main organizer in the absorption of iron. When the amount of iron in the blood increases, hepcidin also increases, causing the intestines to temporarily stop absorbing more iron for about 24 hours afterwards.
This means that if you take an iron pillow every day, your body will not be able to rest and absorb the maximum amount of iron in the next dose, explains pharmacologist patricia Mikula, an expert at the University of Maryland Pharmacy. On the contrary, if you drink it every other day, hepcidin will decrease, helping the body to be more ready to receive iron more effectively.
Scientists also believe that this way of drinking is especially suitable for people with iron deficiency but not to the point of severe anemia.
How to drink iron to maximize absorption, reduce intestinal discomfort
Supplementing iron often causes side effects such as constipation, nausea, and stomach discomfort. Drinking on a daily basis can help reduce these symptoms. In addition, experts recommend combining iron capsules with vitamin C sources such as orange juice, guava or strawberries to increase absorption.
On the contrary, you should avoid drinking it with milk, calcium-rich foods, coffee, tea or foods high in fiber, because they reduce iron absorption. Iron and calcium compete for absorption in the intestines, so using them together will reduce the effectiveness of both minerals, Mikula added.
For people with iron deficiency anemia, doctors may prescribe a daily dose at first, then switch to daily intermittence when the condition improves. This needs to be closely monitored by health to avoid taking too much iron, which can lead to liver damage or digestive disorders.
Before changing the habit of taking iron tablets, users should consult a doctor for appropriate instructions. Drinking properly not only helps absorb iron better but also protects long-term health, especially for women and vegetarians, the two most susceptible groups to iron deficiency.
