This Is The Worst Supplement For Digestion And Bloating, According To Experts

Iron supplements and digestive issues

Iron is an important mineral when it comes to your body's development, as well as your energy levels. Ensuring you're fitting enough of it into your diet will help to reduce fatigue, improve both your mental and physical performance, and even boost your immune system. Many people opt for a supplement in order to make sure they're consuming healthy levels of this mineral. However, Richards warns about the toll this could take on your digestion.

"Iron supplements can cause gut health concerns and bloating due to their potential to irritate the digestive system," she notes. "Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, but excessive amounts of iron can be difficult for the body to process."

This issue arises when you're consuming too much iron and it's not properly absorbed. "When iron supplements are consumed, unabsorbed iron can accumulate in the intestines, leading to irritation and inflammation," Richards explains. "This irritation may cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and constipation."

The type of iron supplement you choose could also make a difference in how your digestive system responds. "Some forms of iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, are known to be more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects," she points out.

Additionally, she says, "Individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those taking high doses of iron supplements may be at a higher risk of experiencing gut health concerns and bloating."

It's important to remember that your gut health plays a major role in your overall wellness, so avoiding disruption in your digestive system is a vital part of keeping your body in the best shape possible.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to fit iron into your body without relying on supplements. By choosing iron-rich foods, you're much less likely to consume too much of the mineral, and your digestive system can continue running as smoothly as possible.

READ MORE: Are Detox Supplements A Scam? Doctors Say Yes