Taking Iron with Folic Acid: Is it SAFE or Not?
Short Answer: It is generally safe to take iron and folic acid together or one after another. Iron and folic acid both are healthy supplements. Iron contains the mineral iron and folic acid has the vitamin B9. According to Ayurveda, iron and folic acid should not be taken together or one after another. This is because iron is considered hot in nature and folic acid is cold. Taking them together can create an imbalance in the body and affect the digestion and absorption of both nutrients. Ayurveda also suggests that iron and folic acid should be taken with different foods. Iron should be taken with sour foods like lemon or amla, while folic acid should be taken with sweet foods like honey or jaggery. But according to science, iron and folic acid can be taken together or one after another without any harm. In fact, some studies have shown that taking iron and folic acid together can improve the absorption of both nutrients and prevent anemia. Science also recommends that iron and folic acid should be taken with vitamin C, as it enhances their bioavailability. As a nutritionist, my advice is to try first. If after taking iron and folic acid together or one after another you can cause side effects such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain, then stop combining them. And if you can tolerate, then continue. However, you should be mindful of the quality and quantity of iron and folic acid you consume. Because too much
