Daily iron supplementation for improving anaemia, iron status and health in menstruating women
Low MSY, Speedy J, Styles CE, De-Regil LM, Pasricha SR
Published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Methodology
Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of 67 randomised controlled trials of daily oral iron supplementation in menstruating women.
Key Findings
Daily iron supplementation raised haemoglobin and ferritin and roughly halved the risk of anaemia and iron deficiency; gastrointestinal side effects were more common with iron than placebo.
Conclusions
Daily iron supplementation effectively prevents and treats anaemia and iron deficiency in menstruating women.
Limitations
Trial quality varied; adherence and side-effect reporting inconsistent; limited data on functional outcomes such as fatigue.
Supplements Studied
Daily iron supplementation raised haemoglobin and ferritin and roughly halved the risk of anaemia and iron deficiency.
Outcomes Measured
Daily iron supplementation improved haemoglobin and iron status.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
World Health Organization / academic
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.