Can I Take Iron with Other Vitamins?

Many people wonder can I take iron with other vitamins? It’s a common question, especially if you’re already taking daily supplements. Iron is one of the most important minerals in your diet, yet it’s also one that many people – particularly women, teenagers and pregnant women – may need to consider supplement to support their intake.

In this article, we’ll look at what iron does for your body, why it matters, the benefits of taking iron, and which other vitamins and nutrients it can be combined with. We’ll also explore how much iron you may need depending on your age, and when to check in with a health professional.

What is iron and why is it important?

Iron is a mineral that plays an important part in everyday health. It contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin, which carry oxygen through the body, and it also contributes to normal oxygen transport.

What are the benefits of taking iron?

Iron also contributes to:

• the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
• normal cognitive function
• normal energy release
• normal function of the immune system
• normal cognitive development of children

Because of these roles, making sure you get enough iron as part of a balanced diet can be a useful way to support your overall health and wellbeing.

What foods contain iron?

Iron can be found naturally in a wide range of foods. Some examples include:

• Red meat
• Seafood
• Poultry
• Beans
• Lentils
• Nuts
• Leafy green vegetables

Including a variety of these foods in your meals can help contribute to your daily intake. Both animal and plant-based sources can be useful, though the body absorbs them differently.

How much iron should I take?

The amount of iron you need varies by age and gender. The NHS provides the following guidance:

If you’d like additional support for daily intake, you might explore our Feroglobin range, the UK’s number one iron supplement brand depending on your stage of life.

Taking iron with other vitamins

So, what other vitamins should I take with iron? It’s natural to ask whether combining supplements is safe or helpful. The good news is that iron can be taken alongside many other nutrients. Below, we explore some of the most common combinations.

Can I take iron with magnesium?

Both minerals play important roles in supporting health and wellbeing, but they can compete for absorption if taken in large amounts at the same time. For that reason, some people prefer to take them at different times of the day. If you’re looking for additional support, see our range of magnesium supplements. Magnesium helps support normal muscle function and energy release, and supports the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Can I take iron with vitamin C?

Yes – in fact, vitamin C increases iron absorption. This is why many iron supplements include vitamin C in their formulation. Pairing iron with a source of vitamin C, such as fruit juice or vitamin C supplements, can help improve uptake. Vitamin C helps supports the normal function of the immune system and the nervous system.

Can I take iron with folic acid?

Yes. Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy and is often included with iron in prenatal formulas. Folic acid also contributes to normal blood formation and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. You can find folic acid in food sources and also in folic acid supplements.

Can I take iron with calcium?

Calcium and iron can compete for absorption if taken in high amounts at the same time. Some people prefer to separate their intake, for example by taking iron with meals and calcium at a different time of day. If you’re considering additional intake, browse our calcium supplements. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones and teeth and for normal muscle function.

Can I take iron with vitamin B12?

Yes – vitamin B12 and iron both contribute to normal red blood cell formation. You’ll also find vitamin B12 alongside iron in many multivitamin formulations. Explore our vitamin b12 supplements to learn more. Vitamin B12 has a role in the process of cell division and in normal psychological function.

Iron and medications

It’s important to note that certain medications may interact with iron. If you are taking any prescribed medication and are considering adding an iron supplement, always check with a doctor or pharmacist first.

Conclusion

Iron is a vital nutrient needed for good health. Pairing it with certain nutrients – like vitamin C, which can help increase absorption – may make it easier for your body to use. If you’re looking for a way to safeguard your dietary intake, take a look at our range and shop iron tablets and supplements including Feroglobin, UK’s number one iron supplement brand.