A nutritionally oriented doctor should assess the need for iron supplements, since taking iron when it isn't needed does no good and may do some harm. If a nutritionally oriented doctor diagnoses iron deficiency, iron supplementation is essential. A common adult dose is 100 mg per day. When iron deficiency is diagnosed, the doctor must also determine the cause. Occasionally, however, iron deficiency signals ulcers or even colon cancer.
Many premenopausal women become marginally iron deficient unless they supplement with iron.
Keep iron-containing supplements out of a child's reach. Supplementing iron can be quite dangerous for people with these diseases. Supplemental amounts required to overcome iron deficiency can cause constipation. Sometimes switching the form of iron, getting more exercise, or treating the constipation with fiber and fluids is helpful. Sometimes the amount of iron must be reduced if constipation occurs.