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Tablet time: Why it's best to take your iron supplements in the morning

Iron supplements are used to treat or reduce the risk of anaemia
Iron supplements are used to treat or reduce the risk of anaemia Iron supplements are used to treat or reduce the risk of anaemia

The best time to take your medication.

This week: Iron pills

FOUR million people in the UK suffer from anaemia, lacking enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body’s tissues.

It is commonly caused by low iron levels and can cause breathlessness, tiredness, a lack of energy, pale skin and palpitations.

Iron supplements, used to treat or reduce the risk of anaemia, are best taken in the morning, an hour or so before breakfast, as they are most effective when taken on an empty stomach. That is because foods such as tea, coffee and milk generally inhibit the absorption of iron.

Vitamin C, on the other hand, can increase iron absorption, so it’s worth considering taking the tablets with a glass of orange juice.

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