Calcium and Iron: Can You Take Them Together?

Use caution — significant interaction

Calcium and Iron can interact. Calcium reduces iron absorption by 50-60% Separate by 2+ hours. Take iron on empty stomach or with vitamin C.

What the evidence says

majorconflict· strong evidence

Calcium reduces iron absorption by 50-60%

Competition for divalent metal transporter (DMT1) in intestinal cells

What to do: Separate by 2+ hours. Take iron on empty stomach or with vitamin C.

Dose matters: >500mg calcium reduces iron absorption by ~50%. Minimal risk: <200mg calcium minimal effect on iron.

Calcium

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Iron

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Related interactions

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Frequently asked questions

Can you take Calcium and Iron together?: Calcium and Iron can interact. Calcium reduces iron absorption by 50-60% Separate by 2+ hours. Take iron on empty stomach or with vitamin C.
Do Calcium and Iron interact?: Calcium reduces iron absorption by 50-60% Competition for divalent metal transporter (DMT1) in intestinal cells
Should you separate Calcium and Iron?: Separate by 2+ hours. Take iron on empty stomach or with vitamin C.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.