Question

Carol from WI asks: Are there some iron tablets that are better than others? I wanted to give blood to the Red Cross and was told my blood needs iron.

Answer

If your iron was low when you gave blood you should first go to your health care professional and have a more in-depth evaluation. People who usually flunk the Red Cross test have anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia is often due to a diet too low in iron. Bleeding someplace in the body or medical conditions can also cause it. It is always important to determine the cause of the anemia. If it is determined that you need an iron supplement, be prepared to be overwhelmed at the many types you can find in the store. You may have to try several types until you find one that you tolerate well. Some people complain of constipation or an upset stomach with some types and not with others. Common iron supplements are ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate. The amount of iron required to correct the problem varies among individuals. Certain drugs may make the iron supplements less effective such as antacids and tetracycline. You can also improve your iron levels through changes in your diet such as eating more red meat and foods of animal products, which include “heme” iron. Foods containing non-heme iron can also be used but they are not absorbed as effectively. These include iron-fortified breakfast cereals, and dried fruits such as raisins. Cooking in iron pots can also contribute to the iron stores in the body. The iron you eat is also absorbed better if eaten with a food high in vitamin C, such a orange juice, broccoli, or baked potatoes. Avoid tea within 2 hours of eating foods high in iron. Tea can block the absorption of the iron. High fiber foods like bran cereal and spinach may also block absorption. Dr. Irene