Iron and Calcium Can Compete
Iron and calcium are both essential nutrients, but experts warn they should not be taken together. Calcium can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb iron in the gut.
This matters especially for people who take supplements for low iron levels while also trying to support bone health with calcium. Experts say both nutrients can still be taken safely, but they should be spaced apart instead of swallowed together.
Separating the supplements by several hours may help the body absorb each nutrient more effectively.
Iron and Zinc Also Interfere With Absorption
Iron and zinc may seem like a healthy combination, but research shows the two minerals compete for the same absorption pathways in the digestive system.
Because of that competition, taking them together may reduce how much of each mineral the body can absorb.
People who take multiple daily supplements may benefit from reviewing labels carefully to avoid accidentally combining minerals that work against each other.
READ MORE ON THE NEXT PAGE…
