I have to take calcium and vitamin B twice a day, as well as iron tablets, also twice a day. I am told calcium prevents absorbtion of iron. What should be the interval between the calcium tablets and the iron tablets? Is one hour enough?
Regarding iron, there is evidence that calcium can interfere with its absorption. For this reason, it is advised to avoid taking iron supplements with calcium supplements or even with milk. Additionally, some studies suggest that ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) can enhance the absorption of iron when taken together, so orange juice or apple juice might be a good choice here. Also, some studies suggest that iron can impair the absorption of calcium. Additionally, caffeine may also impair calcium absorption, so beverages containing caffeine should be limited or avoided. Ingestion of oxalates (found in chocolate and spinach) and phytates (found in whole grains) can also impair calcium absorption. If you are worried about improper calcium/iron absorption, depending on what else you take, you can wait at least two or more hours after the iron to take the calcium. Another point to consider is that calcium absorption is increased in an acidic environment, so tablets should be taken with meals.
Actually there has been no formal study information that says calcium prevents iron absorbtion. Some books say its the other way around. The only food substance proven to prevents iron absorbtion is soy, phytates, and polyhenols. And that only if your a vegan. If that doesnt make you feel better, wait 4 hours between supplements if they are solid, and 2 hours if they are gel capsules or drink. Hope that helps
Actually there has been no formal study information that says calcium prevents iron absorbtion. Some books say its the other way around. The only food substance proven to prevents iron absorbtion is soy, phytates, and polyhenols. And that only if your a vegan. If that doesnt make you feel better, wait 4 hours between supplements if they are solid, and 2 hours if they are gel capsules or drink. Hope that helps
Regarding iron, there is evidence that calcium can interfere with its absorption. For this reason, it is advised to avoid taking iron supplements with calcium supplements or even with milk. Additionally, some studies suggest that ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) can enhance the absorption of iron when taken together, so orange juice or apple juice might be a good choice here. Also, some studies suggest that iron can impair the absorption of calcium. Additionally, caffeine may also impair calcium absorption, so beverages containing caffeine should be limited or avoided. Ingestion of oxalates (found in chocolate and spinach) and phytates (found in whole grains) can also impair calcium absorption. If you are worried about improper calcium/iron absorption, depending on what else you take, you can wait at least two or more hours after the iron to take the calcium. Another point to consider is that calcium absorption is increased in an acidic environment, so tablets should be taken with meals.
