Feeling Worse After Taking Iron Supplements

When you start taking iron supplements, you expect to feel better, but sometimes, the reverse happens – you might actually feel worse.

In this article, we'll explore why iron pills can make some people feel unwell and what you can do if you're one of them. It's important to listen to your body and understand these signals, so you can take iron supplements in a way that's right for you and your health.

Why You Might Feel Worse After Taking Iron Pills

If you've begun taking iron pills and find yourself feeling worse rather than better, there's a scientific reason for this unexpected reaction. Iron is a crucial mineral that our bodies need to produce red blood cells, but the way our bodies process iron supplements can sometimes lead to discomfort.

Firstly, when you introduce supplementary iron into your system, it can cause an imbalance in your gut microbiota. This disruption can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, nausea, or diarrhoea – symptoms that definitely don't make you feel good.

Secondly, iron is a pro-oxidant, which means in the right conditions it can promote oxidative stress. This stress can damage cells and tissues, and it may manifest as tiredness and a general sense of feeling unwell – the very symptoms you're trying to combat with iron in the first place.

Furthermore, some individuals may have a condition known as hereditary hemochromatosis, where the body absorbs too much iron. If you're unknowingly affected, taking iron supplements can exacerbate this condition, leading to a build-up of iron that can be harmful.

Understanding the science behind these reactions can help you and your healthcare provider find solutions to improve your symptoms and tailor your iron intake to suit your specific needs.

5 Reasons You Might Feel Worse After Taking Iron Supplements

1. Poor Absorption: Most iron supplements contain iron in a form that your body finds difficult to absorb, leading to gastrointestinal irritation.
2. Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Iron can cause inflammation in the digestive system, resulting in symptoms like stomach pain and constipation.
3. Microbiome Disruption: High doses of iron can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut bacteria, causing discomfort and bloating.
4. Oxidative Stress: Supplements can increase the levels of free radicals in your body, which can damage cells and cause fatigue.
5. Underlying Health Issues: If you have a condition like IBS or an inflammatory bowel disease, you may be more sensitive to iron supplements.

Recognising the Signs Your Body Isn't Happy with Iron Supplements

The signs that your body isn’t responding well to iron supplements are often clear. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, nausea, or constipation after starting iron pills, these could be the first clues. These symptoms occur because iron can be tough on the digestive system. In some cases, you might also notice changes in stool colour, usually to a darker shade, which, while normal when taking iron, can be alarming if unexpected.

Another sign to watch for is a noticeable drop in energy levels. While iron is supposed to help alleviate fatigue by boosting haemoglobin levels, the initial increase in oxidative stress in your body can temporarily do the opposite.

For those with sensitive systems or conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the reaction can be more pronounced. It’s also worth noting that reactions can vary depending on the type of iron supplement you’re taking – some forms of iron are more easily absorbed and may be less likely to cause discomfort.

It's vital to monitor how you feel and report any adverse symptoms to a healthcare professional who can assess whether these supplements are suitable for you or if the dosage needs adjusting. Remember, each individual's response to iron supplementation can be different, and finding the right balance is key to improving your wellbeing.

What Makes Some People React Badly to Iron Pills

Raising iron levels by taking supplements is a common solution to iron deficiency, but it’s not always a smooth process. Both heme iron, which comes from animal sources, and non-heme iron, found in plants and iron tablets, can cause uncomfortable side effects. This is a significant problem for people who rely on these supplements to improve their iron levels.

The core issue is that iron, while essential for health, is tough for our bodies to handle in concentrated doses like those found in supplements. When you take an iron tablet, it doesn't go straight to your blood. Instead, it has to be processed and absorbed, and during this time, it can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines.

Also, our gut is home to countless bacteria, which make up our microbiome. This microbiome is delicate and can be easily disrupted. Iron supplements can throw this balance off, leading to symptoms like bloating, pain, and changes in bowel habits.

The science behind this is that iron acts as a catalyst for bacterial growth. Some bacteria thrive with more iron, and this can lead to an imbalance. This disruption to the usual bacterial populations can impact the gut's lining, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

For those with pre-existing digestive issues, or who are particularly sensitive, the inflammation and irritation from iron supplements can be even more pronounced.

Lastly, your overall health status plays a role. If you have an underlying health condition, particularly those affecting the gut or liver, you may be more sensitive to iron supplements. Additionally, if you are already in a state of inflammation or oxidative stress, the introduction of a pro-oxidant like iron could worsen those conditions.