Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Do Dairy Products Affect Iron Absorption?
Disease description:
My mother has had iron-deficiency anemia for several years, and she has long maintained the habit of drinking milk. Recently, however, a friend told her that milk consumption may impair iron absorption in individuals with iron-deficiency anemia. Could you please clarify: Do dairy products interfere with iron absorption in people with iron-deficiency anemia?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xing Jian
For patients with iron-deficiency anemia, drinking cow’s milk does not impair iron absorption, nor does goat’s milk. Oral iron supplementation is a standard treatment for iron-deficiency anemia. Additionally, consuming milk can help improve overall physical condition and serve as a supportive nutritional intervention for managing anemia. Oral vitamin C supplementation enhances iron absorption, and milk consumption itself does not interfere with iron absorption—thus, it can be consumed normally.
