Iron supplements can significantly harm your gut health, causing either chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea because they are very difficult for the gut to digest. They can also contribute to memory loss. The human body prefers iron to be combined with protein. For example, when iron binds with a globin protein, it forms hemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying protein in the blood.
The body does not like free iron because it is highly reactive. When free iron enters the body, it immediately reacts with oxygen, creating a highly dangerous reaction like a bomb that damages cells, tissues, and even mitochondria, the structures responsible for metabolism and oxygen production. Excess free iron can even lead to cancer.
Iron supplement side effects
Moreover, when free iron or iron oxide accumulates in the body, it affects the hippocampus the brain region responsible for learning, memory, focus, attention, and executive decision-making. It can shrink the hippocampus and cause brain atrophy, which is why excess iron in the body or poor-quality iron supplements are linked to dementia and may even cause it.
Iron supplements and memory loss
Most iron supplements available on the market especially the cheaper ones, even those from major companies often contain heavy metals, calcium carbonate, and a cheap form of iron. These ingredients make supplements cost-effective, but they increase free iron load in the body, which can contribute to cancer. These supplements are difficult for the gut to digest and put excessive strain on the liver, leading to toxin accumulation. Again, this can result in memory loss and dementia.
Iron deficiency is often not due to a lack of iron itself but rather an issue with iron absorption. Many people take iron supplements without realizing that their iron levels are not improving because something is blocking absorption. The most common reason for this is low stomach acid.
If you are over 35 and experiencing iron deficiency, there is a 200% chance that your stomach acid is low. Before anything else, you should rule out this cause. If you are over 35, incorporating 100% organic, raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into your diet is highly recommended.
Iron toxicity symptoms
If you already have excess iron in your body, the best antidote is phytic acid. You can find it in supplements labeled IP-6, which acts as a chelator to remove excess iron from the body.
If you have been consuming low-quality iron supplements for a long time and are experiencing memory loss symptoms, digestive issues, or persistently low iron levels, you may consider taking an IP-6 supplement.
To prevent excessive free iron accumulation in the body, avoid fortified cereals and grains, as they increase free iron load. Instead, include red meat and shellfish in your diet and address the root cause of iron absorption issues, whether it's low stomach acid, gut inflammation, dietary deficiencies, or another underlying reason.