Am I at Risk of Iron Overdose from My Mom’s Supplements?
I had planned to donate blood on Thursday, but during my previous attempt, my iron level was at 3.9 instead of the required 4.0. As a result, I began searching for iron supplements to take on the donation day, along with preparing a lunch for myself. At 17 years old (assigned female at birth), I don't use any drugs or medications. Currently, I weigh somewhere between 120 and 130 lbs, and my height is approximately 5'4"—though I haven't checked in a while and my memory isn't great. I also don’t smoke or engage in any similar activities. For context, I have ADHD and autism, and I likely experience Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Recently, my mom purchased iron supplements, but the label clearly states that they are intended for iron deficiency, which I don’t think I have—at least, I assume I don't. The packaging indicates a dosage of 65 mg of iron, with 325 mg of ferrous sulfate mentioned as well. If I were to take one of these supplements on the day of my blood donation, could this pose a serious health risk for me? It’s hard not to feel concerned about that possibility. Would it be safer for me to split the pill and take half on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning? Alternatively, is it acceptable to take it with dinner on Wednesday? I would appreciate prompt advice on this matter. And just to clarify, I cannot convey my concerns to my mom about this; she has made misguided health choices before, and I don't want to escalate the situation.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 5:01:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're being proactive about your health and considering how to prepare for your blood donation. Taking iron supplements can be beneficial for individuals with low iron levels, but it's important to ensure you're using them safely, especially since you may not have a deficiency.
Main Points:
- Taking iron supplements without needing them can pose health risks, including the possibility of iron overload.
- You should ideally avoid taking your mom’s iron supplements, particularly at the dosage indicated.
Explanation:
The recommended dosage you mentioned (65 mg of iron) is considered high, especially if you don’t have an iron deficiency. For adults, the upper limit for iron intake is generally around 45 mg per day for those not deficient. Iron overload can lead to serious health issues such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even damage to organs over time. Given you already have low iron levels, this alone should be assessed carefully without additional supplementation unless directed by a healthcare professional.
If you are unsure about your iron levels and considering taking iron supplements, the best approach would be to avoid them unless you have confirmation of a deficiency.
Next Steps:
- Do Not Take the Supplement: Avoid taking your mom's iron supplements before your blood donation, as this could increase the risk of excess iron in your system.
- Monitor Your Diet: Focus on incorporating iron-rich foods into your meals like lean meats, beans, and leafy greens. Vitamin C can help with iron absorption, so including foods like oranges or bell peppers can be beneficial.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Ensure you eat well leading up to your donation day, and stay hydrated.
- Consider Timing with Food: If you still have concerns about your iron levels as the donation day approaches, it might be better to wait for guidance from a health professional instead of self-supplementing.
- Reassess Iron Levels: After donation, consider discussing your iron levels with a healthcare provider to understand if supplementation is needed and what the appropriate dosage would be.
Taking these steps can help you prepare for your donation safely and manage your health effectively. If you have further questions or need reassurance, feel free to ask!
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