Have you started to feel sick since beginning iron supplementation?
You're not alone. Nausea is a common side effect experienced by people taking iron pills.
This article will delve into the scientific explanations behind why iron supplements induce nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. I'll explore how iron is absorbed in the body, why this process might cause nausea, and strategies to mitigate these uncomfortable symptoms.
I will also introduce Nano Iron, a gentle iron liquid designed with these challenges in mind. Nano Iron aims to eradicate gastrointestinal discomfort associated with traditional iron supplementation.
Why Do I Feel Sick or Nauseous After Taking Iron?
Probably one of the most common questions I get as a natural health practitioner is whether it's possible to supplement iron without the nasty side effects.
Many people experience persistent nausea or an upset stomach when taking traditional forms of iron like ferrous fumarate, as this study shows.
This happens because iron causes significant oxidative stress when it comes into contact with stomach acid.
The interaction leads to irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining, resulting in bloating, nausea, or even vomiting for some individuals.
Why are Iron Supplements so Hard on your Stomach?
Let's explain the science behind iron's interactions with the stomach.
Iron supplements cause stomach problems primarily because the absorption of iron, which mainly occurs in the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine)—can be inefficient.
When iron supplements have low bioavailability (meaning not all of the iron is absorbed into the bloodstream) the unabsorbed iron remains in the gastrointestinal tract. This residual iron is exposed to stomach acid, which causes the iron to undergo a reaction called oxidation.
Oxidiative stress then causes damage to the stomach lining and results in the unpleasant side effects such as feeling sick.
In search of a solution to these challenges, Nano Iron is designed to offer an innovative approach to iron supplementation.The theory is that by reducing the partices to nano size (extremely tiny!) they might be easier for the body to absorb.
The resulting reduction in free iron is intended to reduce the side effects commonly associated with iron supplementation.
Is It Normal to Feel Nauseous After Taking Iron Pills?
Feeling a bit sick after starting iron pills is unfortunately pretty common, especially for those on higher doses or with sensitive stomachs.
While it's normal for these symptoms to happen at first, check in with a healthcare provider if they continue. A practitioner can help you decide if you should change the amount of iron you're taking, the time you take it, or even switch to a different kind of iron, such as Nano Iron.
How Do I Stop Feeling Sick After Taking Iron?
So how do you stop nausea from iron pills or liquids?
The typical recommendations are to take the pills with some food in your stomach (this can help your stomach buffer the iron a little) or to space the dose out as much as you can.
If you're a carnivore you could try iron-rich food like beef liver, as opposed to taking iron in supplemental form.
I would also recommend trying 'gentle iron' supplements such as Nano Iron which are much easier to tolerate than things like ferrous fumarate. Nano Iron is a clear, odourless liquid tasting much like water but containing extremely tiny particles of elemental iron that won't upset your stomach.
You can also experiment with ferrous gluconate, a chelated iron like bisglycinate, or enteric-coated iron supplements designed for slow-release.
Nano Iron: A Gentle Way to Increase Iron Without Nausea
Nano iron supplements provide a unique and innovative approach to iron supplementation.
While conventional iron supplements are typically bound to various salts or compounds, which must first be broken down in the stomach or intestines before the iron can be absorbed by the body. nano iron supplements are composed of 100% elemental iron in the form of tiny nanoparticles.
The small size of the nano iron particles, typically less than 100 nanometers in diameter, are designed to be efficiently absorbed. The high surface area-to-volume ratio of these particles enables better interaction with the body's cells, facilitating direct uptake.
By avoiding the breakdown process in the stomach and intestines, nano iron supplements minimise the release of free iron that can cause oxidative stress and irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing nausea and other digestive side effects commonly associated with traditional iron supplements.
Most of my clients are able to take Nano Iron without feeling any side effects whatsoever.
Of course, while nano iron supplements offer a promising alternative for individuals seeking to increase their iron levels without the usual gastrointestinal discomfort, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
How to Take Iron Pills Without Getting Sick – FAQ
What exactly in the iron pills triggers nausea?
The liberation of elemental iron from its compound form in traditional iron pills often triggers a localized irritation in the stomach lining, leading to a sensation of nausea.
Is nausea immediate or delayed after taking iron pills?
Nausea can occur either immediately or within a few hours after ingestion, varying based on individual sensitivity and the specific formulation of the iron supplement.
Can the form of iron in the supplement affect nausea levels?
Yes, certain forms of iron are more easily absorbed and less irritating to the stomach, reducing the likelihood of experiencing nausea.
Does taking iron with food minimize nausea?
Taking iron with food can mitigate nausea to some extent, but it also decreases the absorption rate of iron.
What measures can I take to reduce nausea when taking iron pills?
Hydrating well, taking the supplement with a small amount of food, and choosing an easily absorbed form of iron can help in reducing nausea.
How does Nano Iron differ in its mechanism of absorption?
Nano Iron utilizes nanoparticles for direct cellular absorption, lessening the need for breakdown in the digestive system. This method aims to achieve 100% bioavailability, without causing nausea and other gastrointestinal side effects associated with traditional iron supplements. As with any dietary supplement, consulting a healthcare provider is advised to ensure Nano Iron suits your specific health requirements.
Sources
Machida T, Iizuka K. [Consideration of the Characteristics of Oral Iron Preparations from the Viewpoint of the Mechanism of Nausea and Vomiting]. Yakugaku Zasshi. 2023;143(7):599-606. Japanese. doi: 10.1248/yakushi.23-00057. PMID: 37394455.
