What Are Iron Deficiency Symptoms?
Iron deficiency can manifest in various symptoms including fatigue, weakness, and pale skin due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Individuals with iron deficiency may experience shortness of breath, and cold extremities as their bodies struggle to meet oxygen demands, and impaired cognitive function can occur in some instances.
To address these symptoms, health professional often recommend iron supplements, which can help replenish iron levels in the body and alleviate the effects of low iron levels.
Who is an Iron Supplement For?
Therapeutic iron supplements are formulated to treat or prevent medically diagnosed iron deficiency. Typically, low iron levels are caused by insufficient dietary intake or malabsorption.
Your doctor can determine if iron deficiency is affecting you, and what the cause may be. If a diagnosis is confirmed, iron supplements may be prescribed as part of your treatment.
Why is Iron Important?
Iron is a dietary mineral that is important for various bodily functions, including the transport of oxygen in the blood to tissues throughout the body1. Low Iron levels in the body can decrease your body’s ability to produce energy efficiently during normal daily activities. Read more about the importance of iron in the body in the article linked below.
Iron and Folic Acid
Fefol's products for iron deficiency are therapeutic iron and folic acid supplements for the prevention and treatment of iron and folate deficiency. This therapeutic product delivers iron to the body which may help in the production of energy and help relieve fatigue associated with iron deficiency.
Each delayed release capsule contains 270mg ferrous sulfate, equivalent to 87.4mg elemental iron, plus 300 micrograms folic acid.
Take one capsule per day for the treatment of medically diagnosed folate and iron deficiency, or as directed by your health professional. Supplements can only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Key Features
Fefol Delayed Release Technology
Reduced likelihood of side effects like nausea and constipation
4x better absorption due to iron sulfate*
*Compared to ferric iron. Palacios S.
The Scientific World Journal. 2012: 846824
Fefol Delayed Release Technology Benefits
Prevent and Treat Iron and Folate Deficiency
Supply Iron to the Body Which May Help with the Production of Energy
Can Help with Fatigue Associated with Iron Deficiency by Supporting Energy Levels
Delayed Release Capsules can reduce the probability of side effects like nausea or constipation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a low iron level for a woman?
The recommended iron level for women can vary depending on factors such as age and overall health. However, it's important for women to consult with a health professional to determine their specific iron needs, as optimal iron levels may differ from person to person.
Read our article on women's iron levels for more information.
Do iron tablets make you constipated?
Yes, iron tablets are known to have a constipating effect on the digestive system in some cases. To mitigate this, it's advisable to drink plenty of water, increase dietary fibre intake, and consult with a health professional who may recommend adjusting the dosage or trying different forms of iron supplements if constipation becomes problematic.
Delayed release capsules, such as Fefol Iron & Folic Acid Delayed Release Capsules, deliver the iron more slowly and in the small intestine and may reduce side effects. Remember to always read the label and follow the directions for use.
When is the best time to take iron supplements?
The best time to take iron supplements can vary depending on individual preferences and tolerances. However, many health professionals recommend taking iron supplements on an empty stomach, such as in the morning, to enhance absorption. It's essential to follow the specific instructions provided with the iron supplement, as some types may be better tolerated with food to reduce potential side effects like stomach upset.
How long does it take for iron supplements to work?
The time it takes for iron supplements to work varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of the dietary iron deficiency.
In general, it may take a few weeks to several months of consistent supplementation to see a significant improvement in iron levels and related symptoms.
It's essential to continue taking the supplements as directed by a health professional, even if symptoms improve, to replenish iron stores fully and maintain healthy levels. Monitoring progress through follow-up blood tests is also recommended to ensure effectiveness.
Related Articles
How Long Does It Take for Iron Supplements to Work?
Discover the timeline for iron supplements to take effect in our dedicated article below.
Iron Levels for Women
Learn more about the importance of iron for women's health. Discover what normal and low iron levels are and how to maintain optimal iron balance.
References
1. Australian National Health and Medical Research Council. Iron.
Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand. 2006 (updated 2017) [cited 30 November 2023].
Available from: https://www.nrv.gov.au/nutrients/iron