Iron-Deficiency Anemia (NHLBI / NIH)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health · Published: September 3, 2026 · Accessed: September 3, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• Iron supplements, also called iron pills or oral iron, are the most common treatment for iron-deficiency anemia, and it often takes three to six months to restore iron levels.
• Common side effects of oral iron include a bad metallic taste, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and upset stomach; a doctor may suggest taking the supplement with food, lowering the dose, or trying a different type of iron supplement.
• Intravenous (IV) iron is sometimes used to put iron into the body through a vein, often in one or a few sessions; people who have serious iron-deficiency anemia or long-term conditions are more likely to receive IV iron.
• Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and tomatoes, help the body absorb iron, while some foods like black tea can reduce iron absorption.
• Untreated iron-deficiency anemia can lead to complications including fatigue, headaches, restless legs syndrome, heart problems, and pregnancy complications.