For the best absorption of
iron supplements, take them with orange juice or with a meal containing meat
or poultry and … avoid tea or coffee when taking iron. For the best absorption
of calcium, take half in the morning and half in the evening. Take iron and
calcium supplements at different times of the day— calcium can block the
absorption of iron. Not necessary: Chelated
minerals, which are sold in health-food stores. Chelation describes a type of
chemical bond. It’s no better for the body than standard mineral supplements.
James Fleet, PhD, director, graduate program in nutrition,
University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Bottom Line Sept 15 1999
Volume 20
Number 18