Effects of iron supplements: A Synthesis of Findings from 26 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

The effects of iron supplements in pregnant women with normal iron levels are still being investigated. Some studies suggest that iron supplementation in pregnant women who are not iron deficient may not have any significant benefits for the mother or the baby. 10 This is likely because iron deficiency is often treated effectively by dietary changes and may not require supplementation in all cases.

Research has also explored the potential impact of iron supplementation on pregnancy outcomes like gestational diabetes. Studies investigating the link between iron status and gestational diabetes suggest that there might not be a strong association. 11 However, other studies highlight the complex relationship between iron metabolism and gestational diabetes, indicating that excessive ferritin levels may increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. 23 It is important to note that more evidence is needed to determine the precise role of iron in the development of gestational diabetes.

Furthermore, some studies have focused on the potential side effects of iron supplements. One study found that iron supplements containing both heme iron and non-heme iron had fewer side effects compared to supplements containing only non-heme iron. 1 Another study explored the effects of various iron supplements on the intestinal microbiome, suggesting that Sucrosomial® iron may have a beneficial effect on the gut microbiome compared to ferrous sulfate. 22

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Iron supplements are effective in preventing and treating iron deficiency anemia. 4 , 14 Some studies suggest that iron supplementation in pregnant women may not have adverse effects on the mother or the baby. 8 ,

Risk Summary

Iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects. 10 , 1 Excessive iron intake is associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes. 23 Iron supplements may also interfere with zinc absorption. 7

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities in Studies

Most research agrees that iron supplements are effective in preventing and treating iron deficiency anemia. It is also consistently reported that iron supplements can lead to gastrointestinal side effects.

Differences in Studies

There is no consensus regarding the benefits of iron supplementation for pregnant women who do not have iron deficiency. 10 found no significant benefits. In contrast, 8 found no negative impacts on the mother or the baby's health.

Consistency and Inconsistencies in Results

There is conflicting evidence regarding the benefits of iron supplementation in pregnant women with normal iron levels. Further research is needed to reach a definitive conclusion.

Applying Results to Real Life: Key Considerations

It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking iron supplements, especially during pregnancy. If you have concerns about your iron levels, discuss your individual needs with your doctor.

Limitations of Current Research

There is still a lack of comprehensive research on the use of iron supplements during pregnancy, particularly concerning pregnant women who are not iron deficient.

Future Research Directions

Larger-scale studies are required to further investigate the effects of iron supplementation in pregnant women with normal iron levels. More research is also needed to clarify the role of iron supplementation in the development of gestational diabetes.

Conclusion

Iron supplements are an effective treatment for iron deficiency anemia. However, careful consideration should be given to the potential side effects and benefits of iron supplementation, particularly during pregnancy. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

Literature analysis of 26 papers
Positive Content
23
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
2
Article Type
10
3
3
7
26
1.

Side effects of iron supplements in blood donors: superior tolerance of heme iron.

Author: FrykmanE, BystromM, JanssonU, EdbergA, HansenT

Iron replenishment
Constipation
Side effects

A study compared the side effects of two iron supplements: one with both heme and non-heme iron (Hemofer), and one with only non-heme iron (Erco-Fer). While both were equally effective in replenishing iron levels, Hemofer resulted in significantly fewer side effects, including constipation, compared to Erco-Fer and a placebo.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Long-term weekly iron supplementation improves and sustains nonpregnant women's iron status as well or better than currently recommended short-term daily supplementation.

Author: ViteriF E, AliF, TujagueJ

Improved iron nutrition
Sustained iron levels
Daily iron side effects

This study compared the efficacy of two iron supplementation schemes in improving iron nutrition in women. Weekly iron supplementation was found to be as effective as daily iron supplementation and better tolerated.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Iron absorption in breast-fed infants: effects of age, iron status, iron supplements, and complementary foods.

Author: DomellöfMagnus, LönnerdalBo, AbramsSteven A, HernellOlle

Improved iron absorption

This study investigated the effects of age, iron status, and iron intake on iron absorption in 25 healthy, term, breast-fed infants. Iron absorption from human milk remained low in iron-supplemented infants (16.9 +/- 9.3%) but was higher (P = 0.01) in unsupplemented infants (36.7 +/- 18.9%). Unexpectedly, iron absorption at 9 mo was not correlated with iron status but was significantly correlated with intake of dietary iron, including supplemental iron. Changes in the regulation of iron absorption between 6 and 9 mo enhance the infant's ability to adapt to a low-iron diet.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

Efficacy and tolerability of low-dose iron supplements during pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial.

Author: MakridesMaria, CrowtherCaroline A, GibsonRobert A, GibsonRosalind S, SkeaffC Murray

Prevented ID
Prevented IDA
Gastrointestinal side effects

Supplementing pregnant women with 20 mg/d of iron from week 20 of gestation until delivery was effective in preventing iron deficiency anemia and iron deficiency without anemia. This low-dose iron supplementation did not result in significant gastrointestinal side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Comparison of a combination ferrous fumarate product and a polysaccharide iron complex as oral treatments of iron deficiency anemia: a Taiwanese study.

Author: LiuTa-Chih, LinShen-Fung, ChangChao-Sung, YangWen-Chi, ChenTyen-Po

Effective treatment
Gastrointestinal side effects

This study compared the efficacy and tolerability of a ferrous iron supplement (Ferall) and a ferric iron polysaccharide complex (Niferex) in patients with iron deficiency anemia. The ferrous product was more effective, with slightly higher gastrointestinal side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

6.

Effect of iron supplementation during pregnancy on the intelligence quotient and behavior of children at 4 y of age: long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial.

Author: ZhouShao J, GibsonRobert A, CrowtherCaroline A, BaghurstPeter, MakridesMaria

Iron deficiency anemia reduction
Abnormal behavior

Prenatal iron supplementation to reduce the incidence of iron deficiency anemia does not significantly impact the intelligence quotient (IQ) of offspring at 4 years of age. A randomized controlled trial of 430 pregnant women showed no significant difference in mean IQ between children of iron-supplemented mothers and those in the placebo group. However, the iron group had a higher percentage of children with abnormal behavior scores.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Effect of high-dose iron supplements on fractional zinc absorption and status in pregnant women.

Author: HarveyLinda J, DaintyJack R, HollandsWendy J, BullVictoria J, HoogewerffJurian A, FoxallRobert J, McAnenaLiadhan, StrainJ J, Fairweather-TaitSusan J

Safe for pregnant women

Iron supplementation during pregnancy did not adversely affect zinc metabolism in iron-replete pregnant women. Zinc absorption increased during late pregnancy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

Impact of prophylactic iron supplementation in healthy pregnant women on maternal iron status and birth outcome.

Author: FalahiEbrahim, AkbariSoheila, EbrahimzadeFarzad, GargariBahram Pourghasem

Iron supplementation benefit
Oxidative damage

This study discusses the potential benefits and risks of iron supplementation in pregnant women.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

9.

Intermittent iron supplementation for improving nutrition and development in children under 12 years of age.

Author: De-RegilLuz Maria, JefferdsMaria Elena D, SylvetskyAllison C, DowswellTherese

Iron deficiency treatment
Side effects

Iron deficiency anemia is a common problem in children, affecting 600 million children worldwide. Daily iron supplementation has been used to improve iron status, but its effectiveness has been limited due to side effects, such as nausea, constipation or staining of the teeth. Intermittent iron supplementation may be a safer and more effective alternative to daily supplementation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

10.

Iron supplements in pregnant women with normal iron status: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: HansenRebecka, SejerEmilie P F, HolmCharlotte, SchrollJeppe B

Reduced anemia
Reduced birthweight
Unknown

Daily oral iron supplementation in non-anemic iron replete pregnant women probably reduces the risk of iron deficiency anemia at term and low birthweight.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

The association of iron status, supplement iron in the first-trimester pregnancy with gestational diabetes mellitus: A nested case-control study.

Author: LinYing, WuChunli, AnRongjing, LiuHuixia, ChenMengshi, TanHongzhuan, ChenLizhang, DengJing

GDM risk
Iron supplement risk

Pregnant women with normal ferritin or SI levels and iron supplements could significantly increase the risks for GDM.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

12.

Effectiveness of Health Information Package Program on Knowledge and Compliance among Pregnant Women with Anemia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Author: ElsharkawyNadia B, AbdelazizEnas M, OudaMarwa M, OrabyFatma A

Higher hemoglobin levels
Improved anemia knowledge
Increased compliance

An educational program using the WhatsApp platform was effective in increasing knowledge of anemia, compliance with iron supplementation, and hemoglobin levels in anemic pregnant women.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

13.

In Vitro and Clinical Pharmacokinetic Studies of the Effects of Iron-containing Agents on Vadadustat, an Oral Hypoxia-inducible Factor-Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor.

Author: KokadoYoshimasa, KawaiKouji, NanjoTakehiro, KinoshitaShuji, KondoKazuoki

Anemia treatment
Drug interactions

This study investigated drug-drug interactions between vadadustat and oral iron supplements or iron-containing phosphate binders.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

14.

Benefits and Risks of Early Life Iron Supplementation.

Author: McMillenShasta A, DeanRichard, DihardjaEileen, JiPeng, LönnerdalBo

Improved iron status
Prevention of iron deficiency anemia
Adverse effects on growth
Increased infection risk

This review examines the risks and benefits of iron supplementation in infants. While iron supplements can prevent iron deficiency anemia, they may also have adverse effects on growth, development, and infection risk. Further research is needed to optimize iron supplementation strategies for infants.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

15.

Bioavailability Assessment of an Iron Formulation Using Differentiated Human Intestinal Caco-2 Cells.

Author: FanzagaMelissa, BollatiCarlotta, RanaldiGiulia, SucatoSabrina, FustinoniSilvia, RodaGabriella, LammiCarmen

Improved iron absorption
Reduced side effects

यो अध्ययनले आइरन अवशोषण को सुधार को लागि ferro supremo formulation को प्रभावकारिता को अनुसन्धान गर्छ।

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

17.

Iron deficiency and overload in men and woman of reproductive age, and pregnant women.

Author: LiXiuyun, DuanXuexia, TanDongmei, ZhangBin, XuAnran, QiuNingning, ChenZhaowen

Reproductive health
Iron overload

Iron is an essential nutrient but can be dangerous in high levels. This review summarizes the effects of iron deficiency and overload on reproductive health.

ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

18.

Iron supplements in pregnant women with normal iron status: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: HansenRebecka, SejerEmilie P F, HolmCharlotte, SchrollJeppe B

Reduced anemia
Reduced birthweight
Unknown

Daily oral iron supplementation in non-anemic iron replete pregnant women probably reduces the risk of iron deficiency anemia at term and low birthweight.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

19.

Impact of iron supplementation on patient outcomes for women with abnormal uterine bleeding: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: NazaryanHasmik, WatsonMegan, EllinghamDana, ThakarSwarni, WangAndrea, PaiMenaka, LiuYang, RochwergBram, GabarinNadia, ArnoldDonald, SirotichEmily, ZellerMichelle P

Improved patient outcomes

This systematic review and meta-analysis will evaluate the impact of iron supplementation on patient outcomes for women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), a common condition associated with iron deficiency anemia (IDA).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Risks and limits of bariatric surgery: old solutions and a new potential option.

Author: GambioliR, LeporeE, BiondoF G, BertolaniL, UnferV

Obesity treatment
Gastrointestinal side effects
Nutritional deficiencies

This review discusses the side effects of bariatric surgery, focusing on nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron, cobalamin, and folate deficiencies. The review also highlights the potential of α-lactalbumin and micronized ferric pyrophosphate to help prevent bariatric-induced anemia.

ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

21.

Iron intake in relation to ovarian reserve among women seeking infertility treatment.

Author: Jiménez-CardozoN, MitsunamiM, Mínguez-AlarcónL, Ortiz-PanozoE, WangS, SouterI, HauserR, ChavarroJ E

None reported
Lower ovarian reserve

Supplemental iron intake above 45 mg/day was associated with lower ovarian reserve in women seeking fertility care. Further research is needed to understand the dose-response relationship and risk-benefit balance of iron supplementation.

Observational StudyResearch that observes and collects data on participants' behavior and outcomes in their natural state, without intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

24.

Saudi Registry of Cardiovascular Risk Factor Management in Hemodialysis Patients: The Results of SECRET-HD Study.

Author: G Al-GhamdiSaeed M, FathallaAdel A

CKD management

This national, multicenter, noninterventional study in Saudi Arabia assessed the prevalence of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and medications prescribed to chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients on hemodialysis (HD). The study found that almost all patients had at least one CV risk factor and most achieved blood pressure and diabetes targets, highlighting the importance of comprehensive care for this patient population.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.

Language : English

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