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Can you take iron and calcium together?
Short answer: Better not. Calcium taken with an iron meal or dose lowers how much iron you absorb (graded strong). Take them at different times of day. The exact 2-hour gap often quoted has not itself been tested.
TakeItWhen grade: strong
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Common questions
How far apart should iron and calcium be?
Studies show the effect when they are taken together; a gap of a couple of hours is a sensible precaution, though the exact gap is untested.
Does dairy count?
Yes, calcium from milk or cheese at the same meal also reduced iron absorption in studies.
Sources
- Hallberg 1991, Am J Clin Nutr (PMID 1984335)
- Cook 1991, Am J Clin Nutr (PMID 1984334)
How we grade: strong consistent human trials, moderate some human trials, weak limited or indirect evidence, myth evidence says no. This is general information, not medical advice. If you take a prescription medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
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