Iron is a mineral that is essential for the body in numerous ways. It influences different bodily functions like maintaining healthy oxygen levels, hormone synthesis, and many more.
But, unfortunately, at least a third of the world’s population is iron deficient. The most common reason behind this is not having an iron-rich diet.
This is why health experts at Big Apollo Spectra suggest their patients use iron supplements to deal with the issue.
However, we as the best super speciality hospital in Patna have observed that many of our patients have claimed to experience constipation after taking iron supplements.
This is why in this blog; we will try to understand can iron supplements cause constipation or if it’s just a myth.
Can Iron Supplements Cause Constipation?
The truth is yes iron supplements can cause constipation. According to studies iron has the potential to increase methane gas inside the gut.
The rise of methane in the gut can affect numerous functions like it decreases the ileal and colon transit time, which may result in issues like constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating.
Another reason why iron can cause constipation is because of unabsorbed iron. When we take supplements sometimes it results in excess iron which is not properly absorbed by the body.
This unabsorbed iron later feeds the bad bacteria, which leads to gut issues like constipation. So, does iron cause constipation or diarrhea? absolutely yes as the increase in bad bacteria is linked to them.
Additionally, apart from these two reasons scientists also believe that excess iron can lead to more water transportation into the intestine.
This water is then distributed from the lower area of the gastrointestinal system to the other parts. It may harden the stool, which results in constipation.
Considering these three reasons, we can now understand does iron supplements cause constipation in babies and adults. It is a high probability that after knowing the answer you may have decided to stop taking iron supplements.
Well, hold your horses as according to the best gastroenterology doctor in Patna one can avoid constipation while taking iron supplements.
How Do You Stop Constipation When Taking Iron Tablets?
If you have come this far in the blog then we believe you may know the answer to the question “Does iron affect bowel movements?”.
Now we will try to understand iron tablets constipation remedy so that you can fight your mineral deficiency, without any trouble. So here are some ways to avoid constipation while taking iron:
#1. Choose the Right Dosage
According to the best gastroenterologist in Patna, most people are not aware of how much iron they need to fix their deficiency. Studies suggest every adult man under the age of 50 should take at least 8mg of iron daily.
On the other hand, women should go for 18mg per day. However, it is recommended to talk to your doctor as some medical conditions may demand to increase in the dosage.
Additionally, not everyone’s bodily needs are the same and that’s why talking to a doctor especially, a good gastroenterologist in Patna is a smart move.
#2. Take help from Natural Foods
We live in a world where gulping down pills is considered part of healthy well-being. But, in reality, it is not as living on medication and pills are a sign of an unhealthy body.
So, instead of thinking about iron supplements that don’t cause constipation, look for natural sources of iron. Add iron-rich foods to your diet as it is the best way to avoid the deficiency that comes with taking iron supplements.
If possible, we suggest you to go for animal products and foods rather than plants.
This is because some scientific studies show that the body absorbs more iron from animal sources than veg foods. Aim to at least complete half of your daily dosage through natural foods.
#3. Don’t Miss on Fiber
Do, you know what is the best stool softener when taking iron supplements? Well, the best gastrologist in Patna suggests fibrous foods are the best stool softener.
They absorb water which improves the consistency and also bulk up the stool, which makes them easy to pass through the intestine.
The best part about having fibrous foods is that they not only improve digestion but some of them also are rich sources of iron.
Kidney beans, pumpkin seeds, and tofu are some of the foods that are rich in fiber and iron too. However, it is important to note that increasing fiber intake suddenly can lead to discomfort in the gut.
#4. Avoid of a Sedentary lifestyle
It is said that sitting is a new drug that is affecting humanity in several different ways. Science says that those who are physically active in their day-to-day lives are less affected by constipation.
This is because abdominal muscles play an important role in gut functioning and training them improves bowel movement.
Not only that regular exercise benefits the body in many other ways. It’s so important for the body that even the liver specialist in Patna suggests their patients do regular exercise as it reduces the stress from the liver.
It will make you feel more energized, which is also one of the signs iron pills are working. Apart from these 4 tips having an iron that causes the least constipation can also be helpful.
Which Form of Iron Is Least Constipating?
We know can iron supplements cause constipation or not and also are aware of the ways to avoid it. But, do you know you may be having the wrong form of iron, which is keeping to constipated?
Yes, you read it right there are forms of iron that can result in very less constipation issues than others. According to health experts, three iron forms that have the least constipating are:
- Ferrous bisglycinate
- Iron glycinate
- Iron chelates
So, if you are thinking of completing your iron intake from supplements then look for this iron form in the product’s ingredients list. They are known to have the least gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation.
Conclusion
While exploring the topic “Can iron supplements cause constipation?” we get to know that yes iron supplements can lead to gastrointestinal issues and constipation is one of them.
However, this doesn’t mean one should stop taking iron supplements.
Their ways that can help you deal with constipation while taking iron tablets. In this blog, we have discussed the 4 most effective ones.
Additionally, we also get to know about 3 forms of iron that are the least constipating. If somehow these ways don’t help you with your issue then you must seek medical attention.
So, if you are looking for the Patna Best Hospital for gastroenterology issues, you don’t need to look further than Big Apollo Spectra.
We have some of the best gastrologist doctors in Patna who have helped numerous people with issues like constipation.
Regional folks call us the best hospital in Patna for issues related to the stomach. So, wait no more and contact Big Apollo Spectra ASAP.
