Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au
betterhealth.vic.gov.au
  • Iron is an important dietary mineral that is involved in various bodily functions, including the transport of oxygen in the blood.
  • Dietary iron is found in both animal and plant products.
  • Certain foods and drinks affect how much iron your body absorbs.
  • Iron deficiency is when the stores of iron in your body are too low.
  • Common causes of iron deficiency include not getting enough iron in your diet, chronic blood loss, pregnancy and vigorous exercise.
  • Some people become iron deficient if they are unable to absorb iron.
  • Iron deficiency can be treated by adding iron-rich foods to the diet.
  • If you have iron deficiency anaemia, your GP (doctor) may recommend that you take iron supplements.
  • Keep iron supplements away from children – overdoses can be fatal in young children and infants.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 06-01-2022