Trace MineralsHigh Risk

Iron

Iron is a high-risk supplementwith an RDA of 18 mg and a safe upper limit (UL) of 45 mg per day according to FDA standards. CNS lists a RDA of 20 mg and a UL of 42 mg; MHLW lists a RDA of 10.5 mg and a UL of 50 mg. It has 3 known interactions with other supplements including zinc, vitamin c, calcium. Regular monitoring is strongly recommended when adjusting your intake.

Quick take

Iron sits in the Trace Minerals category. This page consolidates 5 regional standards, and the limits vary enough that you should not treat one region's rule as universal.

It also has 3 known interactions, so the question is not just the label dose but whether the rest of your stack adds extra risk.

Overdose Risk Warning

Acute iron overdose is dangerous; chronic excess can damage the liver, heart, and pancreas.

Safe Limits by Region

RegionOrganizationRDAUpper Limit (UL)Unit
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ United StatesFDA1845mg
πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EuropeEFSA1845mg
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AustraliaTGA1845mg
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡³ ChinaCNS2042mg
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ JapanMHLW10.550mg

RDA = Recommended Daily Allowance (adequate intake for most adults). UL = Tolerable Upper Intake Level (maximum safe daily amount).

Known Interactions

Iron + ZincHigh Risk

Iron and zinc compete for absorption.

Take separately for better absorption.

Iron + Vitamin CLow Risk

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption (positive interaction).

Taking together is beneficial.

Iron + CalciumModerate

Calcium can inhibit iron absorption when taken together.

Take at least 2 hours apart.

How to use this page

First match your product label against the dose table above, then check whether the known interaction list includes anything in your current stack.

If you are taking multiple supplements, the safest approach is usually to audit the whole stack instead of judging a single bottle in isolation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much Iron is too much?

The safe upper limit (UL) for Iron is 45mg per day according to FDA. Exceeding this amount regularly may increase the risk of adverse effects.

What is the recommended daily dose of Iron?

The RDA for Iron is 18mg per day for most adults. This amount is sufficient to meet the needs of 97-98% of healthy individuals.

Does Iron interact with other supplements?

Yes, Iron has 3 known interactions with other supplements. Iron and zinc compete for absorption.

Are you taking Iron?

Check if your supplement stack keeps Iron within safe limits.

Audit My Supplements

Disclaimer: NutriAudit is a decision-support tool designed to help you review your supplement stack for potential duplicate, conflicting, or excessive ingredients. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Based on reference standards from FDA, EFSA, TGA, and MHLW.

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