Dietary supplements are intended to enhance health, but it’s surprising to learn that some can result in poisoning when consumed in excess, especially in children.
Many people don’t consider that an over-the-counter supplement could lead to an overdose, notes Dr. Ashley Alker, an emergency medicine physician based in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
In her recent book, “99 Ways to Die: And How to Avoid Them,” she emphasizes the risks associated with a common mineral frequently found in multivitamins.
Expert Tip of the Day: Be Cautious With Iron Supplements
Iron can be detrimental when taken in large quantities and poses particular risks to children, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Most individuals obtain iron through multivitamins or prenatal vitamins for women, often available in gummy form that is appealing and tasty, says Alker.
“This presents a significant risk for young children, who can easily overdose because they need very little iron,” Alker explains to TODAY.com.
“For infants and toddlers, ingesting just a handful of these gummies could lead to an overdose. Thus, any product containing iron should be securely stored out of reach.”
Importance of Awareness
Iron overdoses can be life-threatening, especially in children, who can reach toxic levels quickly due to their smaller body mass, warns the National Capital Poison Center.
Prenatal multivitamins contain the highest levels of iron, which increases the risk of serious poisoning in toddlers, particularly in households with a new baby where mothers are taking these supplements.
Consuming high doses of iron may cause symptoms such as upset stomach, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, as noted by the National Institutes of Health.
Beyond this, “the blood becomes acidic, causing the iron to lead to bleeding and dysfunction in the liver, heart, and kidneys,” Alker details in her book.
Consuming excessively high doses of iron—hundreds or even thousands of milligrams, compared to the recommended daily intake of 8-18 milligrams for adults—can result in organ failure, coma, seizures, and even death, according to the NIH.
Getting It Right
While iron is essential for health, it’s crucial to consume it in appropriate amounts. Incorporating iron-rich foods into the diet can be beneficial.
To prevent iron overdose, ensure that adult supplements are stored safely away from children. Alker advises locking up tablets and gummies to keep them secure and out of sight.
Children’s multivitamins typically contain very little or no iron, as noted by the National Capital Poison Center.
If you suspect iron poisoning, seek medical attention promptly. An intravenous antidote is available at hospitals, but it must be administered quickly, warns Alker.
TODAY’s Expert Tip of the Day series provides straightforward strategies to simplify everyday life. Every weekday, various qualified experts share their top advice on topics such as diet, fitness, heart health, mental wellness, and more.
In conclusion, while dietary supplements can play a vital role in maintaining health, it’s important to handle them with caution, particularly when it comes to potentially harmful ingredients like iron. By storing supplements safely and being aware of the risks, we can help protect the health of our children and ensure their safety.
