What should iron supplements not be taken with?
Disease description:
Recently, I visited the hospital for a checkup and was found to have iron deficiency; I am currently taking iron supplements. Could you please advise which substances or medications should not be taken concurrently with iron supplements?
Doctor's answer (2)
Dr. Lu Chaohui
Alkaline foods—such as cucumbers—can neutralize gastric acid and reduce gastric acidity, thereby impairing iron absorption. Calcium and phosphorus found in dairy products, soy-based foods, and other sources also interfere with iron absorption. Iron supplements should not be taken concurrently with acid-suppressing medications or with tannin-containing drugs or foods, as this may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal pain. They should not be consumed simultaneously with phosphorus-rich foods (e.g., peanuts), as this may form insoluble complexes that reduce iron absorption. Foods such as spinach and persimmons can bind with iron to form insoluble iron salts, thereby hindering iron absorption. High-fat foods suppress gastric acid secretion and thus adversely affect iron absorption.
