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Iron Supplements for Athletic Teens

Question:

Is it safe to take a low-dose iron supplement if you're not anemic? My teenage daughter is a distance runner, and her coach recommends them for girls on the cross country team.

Answer:

Generally it is not recommended to take low-dose iron if you're not anemic. Excessive iron can be deposited in the liver and can cause problems.

Runners often get "runners anemia" which is why some coaches recommend low-dose iron pills. If you are concerned, I'd suggest you ask your physician to test your daughter for anemia.

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