do iron supplements cause smelly gas?

Always check the use-by date and discard any expired, discolored, or damaged supplements. The more active you are, the more iron you may need to take. doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a011866, Okan M, Koch T, Tran M, et al. Medium chain triglyceride oil may cause flatulence when used in large doses (e.g., five tablespoons twice daily). Q: I have anemia and need to take an iron supplement, but its making me very constipated. Iron supplements are sold over-the-counter or by prescription. such as celiac disease, Stomach They change your poop in some different ways including looks and smell. Common side-effects include stomach upset, constipation and diarrhoea. 2015;10(2):e0117383. In some instances, however, people taking iron supplements may experience the following symptoms . include adequate amounts of fiber in your diet to combat this symptom. Anemia is a condition in which you dont have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. When used to treat iron-deficiency anemia, iron supplements are sometimes effective and well-tolerated and, in other cases not. In fact, having gas is a byproduct of digestion and the air you swallow, hence why you pass gas several times a day. As a result, the sugar is fermented by bacteria in your gut thus leading to the formation of foul-smelling gas. Those with heavy menstrual bleeding or individuals with gastrointestinal-induced anemia tend to be moderate responders. Any suggestions? Stop taking iron supplements and see your doctor if your gas is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss; oily, bloody, tarry or unusually foul-smelling stools; nausea; vomiting or heartburn. It is also necessary for neurological development, synthesis of hormones and proper growth. Dark stools. The cause of the constipation is the iron itself, not any added ingredient. Its also important to talk to your doctor to make sure you take the amount of iron you need, as too much iron also has its share of negative health implications. Metallic taste. The bottom line: Get checked out if your stools smell metallic. You may, therefore, try using fart pads as a temporary remedy. "The body . Iron Supplementation, Response in Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Analysis of Five Trials. Farting or flatulence is a completely normal biological process caused by the internal buildup of gases during the digestion process. are just a few of the GI issues caused by low iron absorption. But if youre asking yourself, Why do my farts smell so bad? theres a perfectly reasonable explanation. Other symptoms include vomiting, poor appetite, and chronic diarrhea in children. Cinnamon: Having a bounty of medical applications, cinnamon can also help relieve gas pain. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Supplements containing fiber and some diabetes medicines can also make you gassy. But for those of us who have iron deficiencies, supplements are often the most effective way to boost our iron intake and keep our health in check. Most Iron Supplements Cause GI Side Effects. According to a 2015 review of studies in the American Journal of Medicine, as many as 27% with people with iron-deficiency anemia will not respond to oral iron supplements. According to the UK's food watchdog group, the Food Standards Agency, if 2,000 to 10,000 mg per day of vitamin C are consumed, it can cause flatulence and intake above 15,000 mg may cause stomach pain and diarrhea. To improve absorption, take iron along with foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or juice. Your doctor may recommend that you take iron pills, but you should be aware there are side effects of iron pills and you may even experience feeling worse after taking iron supplements. Next time, you have this problem, keep a record of what you are eating. Thats a major bummer if you thought your new diet was #goals. Any of these can lead to increased flatulence. In addition, certain conditions may increase your need for iron, according to Mayo Clinic. Because of the inherent danger of overdosing with iron supplements, upper limits have been established as a guideline, according to NIH. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements reports that female swimmers who took 125 milligrams of ferrous sulfate per day -- well over the tolerable upper limit of 45 milligrams per day -- experienced no gastrointestinal side effects 3. The cause of the constipation is the iron itself, not any added ingredient. Some supplements can help reduce gas by breaking down gas-producing carbohydrates. Certain supplements, like iron, may also cause discolored stools. When used to treat iron-deficiency anemia, the duration of therapy may be as long as six months. / Iron. BACKGROUND:In recent years,we saw four patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in our clinical practices who developed a compulsive craving for certain odors including rubber tires, gasoline, Pine-Sol (a popular household alcohol ethoxylate-based cleaning agent), and "musty odor of the basement." Such behavior resolved after treatment of IDA, and recurred in a patient whose IDA relapsed. Iron - Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. The causes of vitamin B12 deficiency include diet. Iron supplement (oral route, parenteral route): Side effects. Table of Contents show. Seriously, did you ever think a lack of blood would be the problem with your period? All rights reserved. People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) have trouble digesting high FODMAP foods, which can cause more stinky gas, Dr. Wolf says, although people who dont have IBS can also experience smelly gas from eating high FODMAP foods. 2013;3(7). 2017;130(8):991.e1-991.e8. Formulations can differ significantly in their content of iron. The water helps disperse the iron for better absorption. shallow and rapid breathing. And what can you do about it? Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. Learn how to enable it, Berberine and Goldenseal Supplements Review, Coconut Oil and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review Semi-Solid and Liquid Oils & Supplements. Treatment for smelly gas will depend on the underlying issue you have, so thats why its important to see a doctor if you notice that your farts are chronically foul and youre producing a lot of it. Fiber supplements are safe; generic brands can save you some money. Causes of smelly flatulence can range from harmless to potentially severe. Opioid pain medicines. Iron supplements are best absorbed when they are taken an hour before meals. Foods with artificial colors are a common culprit. Below, an expert breaks down everything you need to know about what causes smelly gas and how to get rid of it. It also boosts the immune system, aids cognitive function, and supports healthy skin, hair, and nails. Avoid taking iron supplements at the same time as high-fiber foods or caffeine, which can hinder absorption. Do not take iron supplements unless your doctor tells you to do so. So, why exactly do most iron supplements cause these side effects? The more iron from a supplement that someone consumes, the more severe the symptoms typically are. Iron supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated if taken at the recommended dose. Other foods include beer, wine, eggs, meat, and fish. Michigan Medicine. Women have a much higher risk of developing anemia, especially those who are prone to long periods with heavy bleeding. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.03.045. Other chemical compounds include ferrous gluconate and ferrous fumarate. To get a general sense of how common these are . Flatulence may be a sign of a more serious condition. Adding extra collagen protein to your regimen could lead . In other words, if you live off a diet of coffee and cereal, you might find yourself with fewer red blood cells. Other symptoms are bloating, abdominal cramping and nausea. Occasionally, your stool might have a different hue. If you think you are feeling worse after taking iron supplements, it's common to experience some side effects of iron pills ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate and ferrous gluconate forms included. So, why exactly do most iron supplements cause these side effects? If youre passing gas more often, or if flatulence interferes with your daily routine, see your doctor 2. Iron supplements cause other stomach problems such as heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, and cramps. Diet and lifestyle changes, including avoiding certain foods, eating more slowly and exercising can usually help. Foods that contain large amounts of indigestible carbohydrates can result in gas, as these carbohydrates are digested by bacteria in the colon. If you have constipation from iron, one excellent solution is to ask your doctor for a liquid form of iron supplement, such as the brand Feosol. Iron deficiency anemia and plant-based eating, Foods that deplete your iron and can affect iron absorption, Ferosom Forte LCE Liposomal Iron Supplement - 20 Capsules, Ferosom Forte LCE Liposomal Iron Supplement - 20 Powder Sachets, Folic acid and vitamins D, B6, B12, and C. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. In the meantime, here are some possible reasons why your farts smell so bad. Gloria earned both a Bachelor of Science in food science and human nutrition from the University of Illinois. It also contains elements that clean the colon and absorb excessive gas. Psyllium can cause bloating and gas, especially when you first start taking it. An expert breaks down what causes smelly gas and how to get rid of it. Most forms of iron just sit in your stomach and wreak havoc but they are commonly used because they are inexpensive and readily available. If you experience flatulence or other gastrointestinal side effects, the NIH suggests you start with half the recommended dose. It also details iron supplement side effects and how to manage constipation and stomach upset from taking iron pills. Other digestive enzymes known as lactase enzymes may help improve the digestion of lactose (milk sugar) and decrease gas, bloating and diarrhea in people who are lactose intolerant. Taking a smaller dose may decrease the amount of iron you absorb, but for some people, it may also mean less flatulence and other side effects. HIgh-fiber foods and food intolerances are some of the main culprits of smelly farts. Changes in bowel movements/abnormal feces. 1. Eat more whole grain foods and vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, zucchini and celery. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Signs that you might be experiencing an allergic reaction to ingredients in a digestive enzyme supplement include: Difficulty breathing or talking or wheezing. Camaschella, C. Iron deficiency. But anemia can also affect men, especially if their diet doesnt include foods that are packed with iron or help with iron absorption. Iron supplements can sometimes cause stools to appear a dark green that is almost black. These habits may alter your nutritional balance and disrupt regular bowel . By signing up to receive our weekly newsletter, The Wellnest, you agree to our privacy policy. little tmi but i have noticed since i have been taking my iron supplementsi have had horrible gas, and by horrible i mean constant and the smell could gag a pig jamielgray Posted 2/5/09 August 20, 2022 by Sandra Hearth. Many nonprescription and prescription medicines and supplements can cause gas and bloating. Not hungry. Still trying to get my head around all this. But this supplement still has some side effects to be aware of. Health conditions like inflammatory bowel disease can also be causing your stinky flatulence. Iron supplements are known to cause gas and bloating. If you have a smelly farts problem, mix 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar with a glass of water then drink before a meal. For some people, taking certain supplements, such as the digestive enzymes lactase and alpha-galactosidase, may also be beneficial. Make sure you chew your food thoroughly and also try eating more slowly, relaxing during meals instead of multitasking and walking for 10 to 15 minutes after a meal. Gastrointestinal discomfort Take iron pills with meals to Lynch SR, Cook JD. Nausea or vomiting. Its also in some birth control pills, so make sure to read the ingredients labels of foods and supplements carefully, per the Cleveland Clinic. Even a single high dose (60 milligrams per kilogram of body weight or more) can lead to death. Learn more about Ferosom Forte and how it can improve your iron journey: https://www.ferosomcanada.com/, If you have questions, please reach us at:1-888-622-3613, info@ferosomcanada.comHours: 9am to 6pm EST, Monday to Friday. 2005;43(6):553-70. Reason 8: too little fiber. Generally speaking, women with postpartum anemia respond best. However, iron can be rough on your gastrointestinal tract and some people need to take it with a small amount of food. "Whether it was . They are not typically used to treat other types of anemia (such as vitamin-deficiency anemia, hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, or anemia of chronic disease) unless iron deficiency is diagnosed. Also, ask your doctor how you should take iron supplements. Activated charcoal has been taken orally for flatulence based on its purported ability to bind to gas in the intestines, but evidence of benefit is conflicting (Hall, Am J Gastroenterol 1981; Jain, Am J Gastroenterol 1986; Suarez, Am J Gastroenterol 1999). Although its . These include: hydrogen sulphide, methanethiol and dimethyl sulphide. It only becomes a problem when you start passing excessively smelly gas. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Reason 10: probiotics. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data. The physician may advise a change of medication or sometimes the effectiveness of the dosage outweighs the side effects. Miller JL. Read our, Managing Side Effects of Iron Supplements. These . *eye roll*. Other drugs that can cause embarrassing flatulence are non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), antifungal medicines and statins. Which supplements help reduce flatulence (gas), and are there any that make it worse? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This article discusses iron supplements and how to use them. Whatever the cause, iron deficiency can lead to iron-deficiency anemia if left untreated. Respiratory system: buildup of fluids in the lungs. Seek immediate medical care if you experience a possible anaphylactic reaction to iron. Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, and palms of hands. Diabetes drugs called alpha-glucosidase which slow carbohydrate absorption can make you gassy. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 10th Edition; Maurice E. Shils, M.D., D.Sc. Iron deficiency anemia: a common and curable disease. The most common side effects associated with iron supplements include: Constipation. Here are some causes: Lactose intolerance or lactose malabsorption is a condition in which a person is unable to digest the lactose (a sugar present in milk). Taking iron at least one hour before or two hours after a meal with a full glass of water or acidic juice, such as: Iron supplements are not the only factor that contributes to flatulence and alteration in bowel habits. Taking biotin may also wreak havoc on your digestive system: biotin side effects can include stomach troubles like nausea, cramping, and diarrhea, according to Elliott. Increase magnesium intake, which can be found in nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. Although unabsorbed iron is eliminated naturally when we go to the bathroom, it can wreak havoc before it leaves our system. To avoid constipation, drink plenty of fluids and try to be more physically active. Not only is this normal, some physicians consider it to be a sign that the supplementation is effective. for unusual substances, such as dirt or ice, Poor Avoid iron overloading by spacing out your doses and trying not to exceed 150 mg of iron per dose. The pads have activated charcoal which filters intestinal gas and neutralizes the odor. Diabetes drugs called alpha-glucosidase which slow carbohydrate absorption can make you gassy. high, IV-level absorption rates. Iron deficiency, also known assideropenia, is the state in which your body lacks the iron needed to maintain normal function. The four reasons why nuts make you gassy are: Nuts are high in fiber. A metallic smell on your body is typically triggered by handling metals or from your body burning protein rather than glucose during a workout. Are you constantly asking yourself Why do my farts smell so bad? First, know that its normal, and typically caused by the food youre eating. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. The secret to fighting anemia? Anyway, I've been taking 75mg of iron supplements (as ferrous succinate) for a couple of weeks now. Certain diet and lifestyle changes, including eating smaller meals, drinking and eating more slowly, avoiding certain foods, and exercising regularly may help reduce excessive flatulence. Constipation. Moreover, it contributes to the transmission of nerve signals to and from the brain. Flatulence, also called flatus, is gas that passes through your rectum 2. On top of that, some of our favourite healthy foods can actually inhibit iron absorption, such as spinach, nuts, beans, and egg whites. A few examples are: Aspirin. drink a lot of water to help with constipation. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, Iron Supplements That Don't Cause Constipation, Side Effects of Iron Supplements for Women over 50, How to Treat Gas Pain After Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Gas In The Digestive Tract, National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements: Iron, Tolkien Z, Stecher L, Mander AP, Pereira DI, Powell JJ. So youve passed some gas and it smells, er, funky. Below are five potential Metamucil side effects: 1. Ferosoms LCE coating is like an iron bodyguard, shielding the supplement as it travels through the digestive system. Ferrous sulfate is the most common. These charcoal with pores is called activated charcoal and is used for medicinal purposes to trap chemicals. Opioid pain medicines. (Howard LeWine, M.D., is an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. Accidental poisonings can happen if a child accidentally eats too many pediatric multivitamins or adult prenatal vitamins, warns MedlinePlus. It may not always be easy to identify . Please do not submit any type of HTML markup or scripting as it will not be accepted, nor will posts that exceed 2,500 characters. 4 Reasons Why Nuts Make You Gassy And Bloated. Iron supplements are used to treat iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. A few examples are: Aspirin. The Bottom Line: avoid symptoms of nausea, suggests MedlinePlus. For an iron supplement to be properly absorbed, it has to reach your intestine (where it then gets absorbed into your lymphatic stream and released into your liver). Protein powder and drinks, as well as nutrition bars, can also cause gas and bloating in some people. Collagen can make you feel down in the dumps. When a person's . But before you rush off to stock your online cart with the first supplement brand you can find, its important to know why certain brands lead to painful side effects. Your body only absorbs 10 to 20 percent of the iron you ingest, while the rest remains behind in the gastrointestinal tract, where it can cause side effects. But before it gets there, your stomach acids will try to break it down. Be alerted to newclinical findings & warnings. Foods that contain sulfur double down on smelly gas because when they get broken down in the gut, they cause sulfur-containing gases, such as methanethiol, dimethyl sulfide, and hydrogen sulfide, according to this January 2021 UpToDate article.