[Intestinal absorption from therapeutic iron doses (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Gastroenterology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Iron deficiency is a global health concern.
• Understanding iron absorption is crucial for effective therapeutic strategies.
• Specialized galenic formulations aim to improve iron bioavailability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify intestinal iron absorption from a specific ferrous glycocoll sulphate formulation.
• To correlate iron absorption rates with varying iron status levels.
• To assess the impact of meal timing on iron absorption.

Main Methods:

• Whole-body counter and radio-iron (59Fe) labeling were used for precise absorption measurements.
• 105 individuals with normal iron stores, iron depletion, and iron deficiency were studied.
• Absorption rates were measured using 100 mg and 50 mg iron doses.

Main Results:

• Mean iron absorption from 100 mg Fe was 5.0% in healthy males and 5.6% in healthy females.
• Individuals with latent iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia showed higher absorption rates (10% and 13%, respectively).
• Maximum absorption (20-25%) occurred in late latent iron deficiency; further deficiency did not increase absorption. Meal timing had no significant effect.

Conclusions:

• Iron absorption is significantly enhanced in states of iron depletion and deficiency.
• The therapeutic potential of iron supplements is maximized in latent iron deficiency.
• The tested formulation's absorption is not significantly affected by administration relative to meals.