Are You Making This Costly Mistake with Your Supplements? Doctor Issues Urgent Warning

[CharlieH]

 

Nearly half of individuals admit to taking a supplement at least once a month in their quest for optimal health. However, one of the most commonly used supplements might pose risks of serious gut issues, according to an expert.

 

Excessive consumption of certain types of iron supplements can result in diarrhea, constipation, and bowel inflammation, conditions that have been associated with disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Additionally, these supplements may disrupt the gut's ability to absorb other essential minerals. This caution was highlighted by a healthcare professional in a viral video that garnered significant attention.

 

Research over the years has suggested that taking iron supplements in excess could increase the risk of bowel cancer, a disease that claims nearly 17,000 lives annually in the UK alone and is increasingly affecting individuals under the age of 50.

 

Iron supplements are available through prescriptions for iron deficiency and can also be purchased over-the-counter under names like ferrous fumarate, ferrous sulfate, or ferrous gluconate. The expert indicated that despite being one of the most frequently prescribed medications, iron supplements are often misused.

 

The recommendation is to take iron once daily, as taking them multiple times can lead to an accumulation in the gut, causing inflammation and various gastrointestinal issues. In some cases, taking the supplement every other day can be just as effective.

 

Taking oral iron increases levels of a protein that regulates iron absorption, meaning that additional doses within 24 hours can contribute to gut issues rather than improve iron levels in the body. The expert advised that it’s essential to talk to a doctor if prescribed iron more than once a day, as they may not be aware of the latest guidelines.

 

While guidelines vary by country, men generally need around 8.7 mg of iron daily, while women aged 19-49 require about 14.8 mg due to menstrual losses. For women over 50, the recommendation typically drops back to 8.7 mg.

 

Iron plays a vital role in producing red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout the body, making it essential for functions like energy production, immune response, and gastrointestinal health. Over-the-counter iron tablets usually contain about 14 mg per tablet.

 

Health organizations often suggest that individuals should be able to meet their iron needs through a balanced diet. Rich dietary sources of iron include red meats, pulses, and dark leafy greens, such as lentils, spinach, and kale.

 

Excessive iron intake has been linked to various health complications, including cirrhosis, diabetes, and heart failure. In men, high iron levels can contribute to erectile dysfunction and reduced libido, while women may experience disruptions in their menstrual cycles. Studies indicate that elevated iron levels can also lead to oxidative damage in cells, raising the risk of bowel cancer.

 

In terms of cancer statistics, there are approximately 142,000 cases of bowel cancer reported annually in the U.S., making it the fourth most common cancer in both the U.S. and the UK. Alarmingly, rates are rising among younger populations, a trend that experts attribute to modern dietary habits, chemical exposures, and lifestyle factors.

 

Symptoms of bowel cancer may include changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, increased urgency to use the restroom, and blood in stool. Other warning signs can include abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss without trying, and fatigue. It is crucial for anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical advice.

 

While the majority of bowel cancer diagnoses occur in individuals over 50, cases among younger adults have surged by 50% over the past three decades. Health estimates suggest that many bowel cancer cases could be preventable. Suggested risk factors include obesity, overuse of antibiotics, radiation from mobile phones, and contaminants in drinking water.

 

 

Based on an article by Daily Mail