Feeling Worse After Taking Iron Supplements?

Iron supplements are often prescribed to combat

iron deficiency anaemia, a common health issue that can lead to fatigue, weakness, and anaemia. While most iron supplements are life-changing for many, some people can find themselves feeling worse after starting them.

Let's dive into why this happens, spot the signs that iron supplements might not be your best friend, and tackle some common questions you might have.

Why take iron supplements?

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in keeping our body healthy, especially when it comes to making red blood cells that carry oxygen all around it.

When your body doesn't have enough iron to produce haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues, this is known as iron deficiency anaemia.

Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and more. Iron supplements can help restore iron levels in the body, leading to the production of more normal red blood cells and alleviating these symptoms.

Iron pills are particularly beneficial for:

• Pregnant women, to support foetal growth and increase maternal red blood cell mass.
• Women with heavy menstrual bleeding, to replenish lost iron and prevent anaemia.
• People recovering from blood loss due to surgery, injury, or blood donation, aiding in red blood cell regeneration.
• Vegetarians and vegans might not get enough iron from their diets, as plant-based iron is less efficiently absorbed than iron from animal sources.
• Children and adolescents during growth spurts, to meet increased iron demands.
• Those with chronic conditions like kidney disease or heart failure may face a higher risk of iron deficiency.

Iron also plays a key role in energy metabolism, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing. However, it's important to use iron supplements under medical supervision to avoid taking too much iron, which can lead to adverse effects and even an iron overdose.

Why iron pills might make you feel worse

Discovering you're low on iron can feel like you've finally found the culprit behind your fatigue, only to find that the solution - iron supplements - is making you feel even worse.

Here's why that can happen:

Poor absorption

Iron's role in our body is crucial, but it's a bit of a prima donna when it comes to being absorbed. That's because iron absorption is a complex process that can be influenced by various factors, including:

• The type of iron supplement (ferrous vs. ferric)
• The presence of other nutrients:
  • Vitamin C, which can enhance iron absorption
  • Calcium, which can hinder iron absorption
• The health of your digestive system

When iron isn't absorbed efficiently, it can lead to minimal improvement in iron levels, causing continued symptoms of deficiency such as fatigue and weakness, which you might perceive as 'feeling worse'.

Gastrointestinal side effects

It's recommended to take oral iron supplements on an empty stomach to aid absorption. As a result, iron supplements are notorious for causing gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.

These side effects can be particularly distressing if you're already sensitive to supplements or suffer from pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions, making the overall experience of taking iron supplements unpleasant.

Oxidative stress

Iron is a pro-oxidant, meaning in excess, it can sometimes tip the scale towards oxidative stress by generating free radicals. This is the equivalent of a small fire turning into a blaze.

These free radicals can damage cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and contributing to a feeling of malaise or worsening of existing health issues, leaving you feeling rundown.

Microbiome disruption

Emerging research suggests that iron supplements can alter the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in our digestive system.

This disruption can affect everything from digestion, nutrient absorption, and even the immune system, potentially leading to gastrointestinal symptoms and a general feeling of being unwell.

Other health issues

Sometimes, the issue isn't with the iron supplement itself but with the underlying health conditions that might be exacerbated by taking iron supplementation.

Conditions such as haemochromatosis (an iron overload disorder), undiagnosed infections, or autoimmune diseases can turn iron supplements from friend to foe, exacerbating problems rather than solving them.

Signs your body is not responding well to your iron supplement

If you're taking iron supplements and notice any of the following, it might be a sign that your body isn't responding well:

• Increased gastrointestinal discomfort or new digestive issues
• Persistent fatigue or feeling more tired than before starting supplements
• Unexplained changes in mood or cognitive function
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, or swelling
• Worsening of existing health conditions

When to seek medical advice?

If you suspect that your iron supplement is causing serious side effects, like an irregular heart beat or chest pain, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, review your current iron supplementation regimen, and recommend alternative treatments or adjustments.

Different types of iron supplements

Iron supplements come in various forms to cater to different needs and preferences:

• Ferrous sulfate is the most common and economical option, effective for many.
• Ferrous gluconate offers a gentler alternative, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
• Ferrous fumarate contains a higher iron concentration, suitable for those with severe deficiency.
• Ferric citrate and ferric sulfate are options for those who might not tolerate ferrous forms well.
• Lastly, carbonyl iron and heme iron polypeptides provide highly absorbable alternatives, minimising side effects and improving tolerance.

You can buy Sealions Iron Supplements online without a prescription from your doctor. Each iron pill contains 14mg of iron (Ferrous Fumarate) per serving.

Alternatives to iron tablets

If you're looking for alternatives to taking iron pills due to side effects or personal preferences, there are several options you can consider:

• Liquid iron supplements: These might be easier on your stomach and are often recommended if you experience gastrointestinal issues with tablets.
• Dietary changes: Boosting your intake of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, can naturally improve your iron levels. Eating vitamin C-rich foods at the same time can help enhance iron absorption.
• Iron-rich cooking: Cooking with cast iron pots and pans can increase the iron content of your food, offering a natural way to up your dietary iron.
• Fortified iron rich foods: Look for foods fortified with iron, like certain cereals, bread, and plant-based milks, to help increase your daily intake.
• Herbal supplements: Herbs like nettle leaf, dandelion, and yellow dock are thought to support iron levels. However, it's important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure they're right for you.

Before trying any alternatives, always consult with a healthcare professional to make sure they fit your specific health needs and to effectively monitor your iron levels.

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FAQs:

How long does it take for your body to adjust to iron supplements?

Everyone's different, but generally, it can take from a few days to a few weeks for your body to get used to iron supplements. If you're still feeling rough after a few weeks, it's worth talking to a healthcare professional.

Why do I feel more tired after taking iron tablets?

Feeling more tired can be down to a few reasons, like your body adjusting, not absorbing the iron properly, or it could be highlighting another health issue. If this tiredness doesn't let up, it's a good idea to seek some advice.

Can you be intolerant to iron tablets?

Yes, it's possible. Some people might find they have a harder time with iron tablets, experience more intense side effects or even allergic reactions.

What are the symptoms of iron hypersensitivity?

If you're hypersensitive to iron, you might find yourself dealing with stomach issues, skin reactions like hives, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

What not to take with iron?

To give iron the best chance of being absorbed, try to avoid having it with calcium-rich foods or supplements, caffeine, and some dairy products, as they can interfere with iron absorption. Also, certain medications like antacids and antibiotics, should be taken at different times from your iron supplement, not alongside it.