Iron & Vitamin C to Help Fibroids

Does Iron & Vitamin C help with Fibroids symptoms?

If you're feeling exhausted all the time and you have fibroids, you may have seen online that Iron can help. Iron cannot treat your fibroids, but it can be taken to treat the anaemia caused by your heavy periods.

Women who are experiencing severe heavy bleeding can sometimes become anaemic. Anaemia is where the body's amount of red blood cells (that make up our blood) are less than what we need. These are important for helping take oxygen to the rest of the body, and when we are anaemic, it can cause symptoms such as:

• breathlessness
• tired
• dizzy
• headaches

It is important to note that anaemia can be caused by many different reasons, and is confirmed by a simple blood test by the GP. Not all women with fibroids become anaemic, nor does it mean if you have heavy periods you will become anaemic. 

If a doctor confirms you are anaemic because of the heavy bleeding, they will often discuss starting iron supplements  - because iron provides the building blocks to replace those lost red blood cells. Usually this is prescribed at a dose tailored to your blood results, or if only a mild anaemia is identified then they may advise you to consider finding your own iron replacement supplements.

A doctor will only prescribe iron if you are outside the "normal" ranges of ferritin. However if you are inside the range yet very low, you may still be experiencing anaemic symptoms but your GP will not provide a prescription. In this case you can consult a nutritionist or speak to the pharmacist about increasing your iron stores safely. 

What iron does and doesn't do

✔️ Supports the body in producing new red blood cells in confirmed anaemia

✔️ improve symptoms of anaemia (tiredness, dizziness, headaches)

What it does not do

❌ addresses the heavy bleeding

❌ treat the fibroids

Vitamin C

Vitamin C boosts the absorption of iron and taking iron with a glass of orange juice and/or a vitamin C supplement can help the absorption of the iron.

Types of iron supplements

There are different types of iron tablets, with variations on the type of chemical form of the iron and how much 'pure iron' they contain (called elemental iron)

1. Ferrous Salts: The most common type and best for absorption, but common to cause stomach upsets and side effects.

• • Ferrous Fumarate (highest amount of elemental iron)
  • Ferrous Sulfate (traditional, not too costly and close in % as Ferrous Fumarate)
  • Ferrous Gluconate (least amount of elemental, but fewer side effects)
    

1. Chelated Iron: A form of iron that has been paired with an amino acid to make it easier to digest.
2. Polysaccharide-Iron Complex:  A form that has a high concentration of iron and designed to break down slowly to reduce side effects (easier on the tummy) 
3. Carbonyl Iron: a chelated supplement of magnesium and amino acid taurine, is often used for cardiovascular support.

Common side effects

Prescribed iron supplements can upset the stomach and cause constipation, tummy ache or diarrhoea. They can change the texture or colour of your poo (stools). 

If your prescribed iron pills are causing side effects that mean you are no longer taking them, it is best to return to your GP to discuss alternative options. 

When and how should I take it?

Ideally take with a glass of orange juice for the added vitamin C and on an empty stomach (1-2 hours before or after a meal). Avoid taking within 2 hours of caffeine, dairy or calcium supplements as this will negatively impact how it is absorbed. Always check it is not going to effect any other medications you may be taking.

Medical Disclaimer - The information provided is intended to inform and educate women with Fibroids only,  it is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating Fibroids.  

Taking too much iron (or any supplements) can cause a build up in the blood as the body may take on more than it needs. Too much iron can can cause serious complications and organ damage. It is important to take the right dose, but to only take if anaemia is confirmed by your doctor and discussing with them first.

References

• https://www.onlinecprcertification.net/blog/why-you-should-pair-your-iron-with-vitamin-c/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10182438/
• https://www.fresnofibroidcenter.com/blog/the-link-between-fibroids-and-anemia-what-you-need-to-know