Overview

• A&E doctor Suraj Kukadia (Dr Sooj) advises taking iron with vitamin C, such as orange juice, and avoiding milk or other dairy products that can block absorption.
• NHS guidance says to swallow iron with water or juice rather than milk, and MedlinePlus advises leaving about two hours after consuming milk, calcium or antacids before dosing.
• For confirmed iron deficiency, the doctor says he typically prescribes at least 200 milligrams of iron per day, which is higher than many shop-bought supplements.
• Iron deficiency anaemia often develops over months or years and can present with tiredness, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, pale skin and headaches.
• Iron absorbs best on an empty stomach, though some people may need a small amount of food to reduce cramps, nausea or diarrhoea.