Ferrotrate Iron:Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Iron Important?

Iron is a critical component of haemoglobin and myoglobin, which transport oxygen in the blood and muscles, respectively. Iron is vital for energy production in every cell in the body. Iron is needed to make amino acids, hormones and neurotransmitters.

Should I Be Concerned About My Iron Intake?

Depletion of iron stores may result in iron-deficiency anemia. Symptoms include reduced resistance to infection, fatigue, weakness, reduced work productivity, headaches, poor resistance to cold temperatures and pale skin. Young children, teenage girls, women of child-bearing age, pregnant women, and the elderly are most at risk for iron deficiency.

How do I Know If I Need Iron?

When an iron deficiency is suspected, a doctor will order a test for serum ferritin. This test accurately reflects iron stores and is the best indicator of iron status.
Iron is commonly found in regular multivitamins. However, iron should only be taken as an individual supplement when recommended by a doctor. Too much iron can lead to a condition known as iron overload, which has serious side effects.

If I Do Need Iron, Why Should I Use Nutri-Chem’s Ferrotrate?

Iron exists in 2 chemical states: ferric and ferrous. Humans absorb ferrous iron on average about 5 times better than ferric iron. Ferrotrate contains ferrous iron, as a ferrous citrate chelate. While several forms of ferrous iron supplements are available, Ferrotrate has 3 advantages:

*Up to 30% of a ferrous citrate supplement can be absorbed*Ferrotrate is less likely to cause constipation, like other forms of iron

*Ferrotrate contains vitamin C, which enhances the absorption of iron

*Ferrotrate is a well-absorbed form of supplemental iron, with fewer side effects.

Are There Any Precautions When Taking Ferrotrate?

*Always store iron-containing supplements where children cannot reach them. Excess iron can be fatal to children.

*Always discuss any medications you are taking with your pharmacist. Iron can interfere with the absorption of many medicines.

References

Heinrich HC. (1975) Bioavailability of trivalent iron in oral iron preparations. Therapeutic efficacy and iron absorption from simple ferric compounds and high- or low-molecular weight ferric hydroxide-carbohydrate complexes. Arzneimittelforschung. 25(3):420-6.

Rao BS., Kathoke S., Apte SV. (1978) Mono ferrous acid citrate (FeC6O7H2O) as an iron fortificant. Br J Nutr. 39(3):663-5.

Whitney, EN., Cataldo, CB., Rolfes, SR. (1998) Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. Wadsworth Publishing Company, Belmont, CA.

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