Iron Absorption--A Common Mistake

I am always fascinated by health facts which go unknown by the average joe. I feel this post is especially important, because I often hear about products which go against these facts, rendering the products useless. Let me explain.

There is a common mistake that people make every single day, which could eventually be quite harmful to the body. It involves the combination of iron and calcium; a combination which hinders the absorption of iron significantly. This is not good news for someone who desires an boost in iron. (Females out there?)

Some information for you about Iron:

Iron is often found in supplement form, featured on labels and in commercials. Why? Unless your body is absorbing an abundance (a disorder called hemeochromatosis), it is a very important mineral! The body requires it for a variety of different tasks like the creation of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and utilizing energy in the body. Those who loose blood each month, who are naturally low in iron, or who don't eat a balanced diet, may hear their doctor diagnose a supplement and an increase in products containing iron.

Interestingly however, many products on the market, like breakfast cereals which claim to be "high in iron," are not informing the consumer of one little tidbit: if you are eating that cereal with milk, the iron absorption is reduced. And if you are swallowing that iron supplement with a glass of milk or right after a cheese sandwich, the same thing happens. Side effects include sluggish behavior, tiredness, anemia.

I draw your attention to this primarily because I know how important it is for many people to absorb enough iron, and because there is a simple remedy to do so: vitamin C! Vitamin C will enhance the body's absorption of the mineral, and is often recommended with a iron supplement right before bed. (2 hours away from an calcium intake).

Note: before trying a supplement, talk to your docter or a pharmaisit to avoid overdose. As important as iron is, it's quantities need to be moderated in the body. Personally I would rather avoid supplements and their risk of overdose all together, and consume some other iron sources: red meats, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, and dried fruits. Or, cook on an iron skillet.

And now you know! Doesn't it feel good to be informed? :)