Vitamin C and iron, the fitness combo

When vitamin C is present, it promotes iron absorption from the intestine. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor vitamin C intake for people with haemochromatosis or high levels of ferritin, which can be a sign of excessive iron absorption and storage.

Vitamin C promotes non-haem iron absorption, which is why it is recommended to combine these two elements in the same meal. One way to achieve this is by enjoying a lentil dish followed by a fruit salad with kiwis and oranges for dessert.

Yes, it is perfectly reasonable and even recommended to take iron and vitamin C simultaneously. Vitamin C promotes the absorption of non-haem iron from plant sources and can improve the overall assimilation of iron in the body. Combining these two nutrients in the same meal maximises the benefits of this combination. For example, consuming sources of iron, such as green vegetables or fortified cereals, with foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit, strawberries or peppers, can help boost iron status and prevent anaemia more effectively. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is particularly effective for improving the absorption of non-haem iron from plant sources. It facilitates the conversion of non-haem iron into a more absorbable form in the intestine. Therefore, vitamin C is often recommended in combination with plant sources of iron, such as green vegetables, legumes and wholegrain cereals, to optimise iron absorption in the body. It is beneficial to include foods rich in vitamin C in the same meal as those containing non-haem iron to maximise the benefits of this combination. Common sources of vitamin C include citrus fruit (oranges, lemons, grapefruit), strawberries, kiwi fruit, red peppers and other fresh fruit and vegetables.

Iron-deficiency anaemia, which is the result of an iron deficiency, reduces the number of red blood cells in the blood or in their haemoglobin concentration. This leads to intense fatigue, a pale complexion and a marked shortness of breath on exertion. When treating iron-deficiency anaemia, thanks in particular to Fero-Grad, it is common practice to prescribe vitamin C in addition to iron supplements to encourage its absorption. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at Fudan University in Shanghai, China, and published in JAMA, calls into question the effectiveness of adding vitamin C to iron supplementation in patients with iron-deficiency anaemia. The results show that haemoglobin recovery and iron absorption are not significantly improved with the addition of vitamin C. The authors conclude that vitamin C supplementation is not essential for anaemic patients taking oral iron. Although some healthcare professionals believe that the combination of vitamin C and iron may be beneficial, the results of this study suggest that it may not provide significant benefits for iron deficiency anaemia.

It is not advisable to take iron and vitamin E at the same time, as iron can oxidise vitamin E, altering its effectiveness. Iron supplementation can also have a negative effect on vitamin E status. It has been noted that vitamin E can reduce the build-up of iron in the liver. It may, therefore, be recommended if there is too much iron in the liver, particularly for people with haemochromatosis.

The optimal iron-rich medication for a course of treatment depends on various factors, such as specific iron requirements, the patient's age, pregnancy, and any vitamin B9 or vitamin C deficiencies. For severe deficiency, the most concentrated tablets, such as Tardyferon® 80 mg, are recommended. Some drugs, such as Timoferol® and Fero-Grad Vitamin C®, combine iron with vitamin C to improve its absorption, making them particularly suitable for patients with a low vitamin C intake. The patient's age should also be taken into account: Fero-grad Vitamin C® should be reserved for adults, for example.