Oral iron supplements may cause or worsen constipation

Some iron supplements can causeconstipation.

Because the human body does not produce iron, we must get this mineral from food.

Some people have a hard time keeping their iron at healthy levels.

Woman wearing a yellow top sitting at a table holding a glass of water in one hand and a iron pill in the other.

Carol Yepes / Getty Images

You may need an iron supplement if you’re free to’t increase iron levels through your diet.

This article will explore the link between iron and constipation.

Researchers believe that extra iron in the stomach may cause water to move into the intestines.

This activity takes water away from the lower intestine, causing stools to become harder.

If you experience constipation from iron supplementation, talk to a healthcare provider for strategies to combat constipation.

They may recommend the following:

The following conditions and eating patterns commonly benefit from iron supplementation.

If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet pattern, you may require iron supplementation.

Which Form of Iron is Least Constipating?

Iron supplements are made from different forms of iron.

When Not to Take Iron Supplements

Certain medications and supplements should not be taken with iron.

They will create the best treatment plan for you.

In addition, if you do not have iron deficiency, do not take iron supplements.

Too much iron can cause health problems, such as stomach ulcers and decreased zinc absorption.

Very high doses can lead to severe consequences, such as organ failure, coma, or death.

Too much iron can lead to constipation.

You may consider training yourself to have daily bowel movements.

National Institutes of Health.Iron.

2020;12(6):e8392.

National Institutes of Health.Constipation.

American Society of Hematology.Iron deficiency anemia.

National Heart Lung and Blood Institute.Iron-deficiency anemia.

Chan School of Public Health.Iron.

American Pregnancy Association.Constipation during pregnancy.

Harvard School of Public Health.Iron.

2021;12(2):491-502. doi:10.3390/microbiolres12020033

National Institutes of Health.Concerned about constipation?