Related Experiment Videos
Absorption of iron from ferric hydroxypyranone complexes
D G Maxton1, R P Thompson, R C Hider
1Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital, London.
The British Journal of Nutrition
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Iron (Fe) absorption from ferric hydroxypyranone complexes was comparable to ferrous sulfate in normal and iron-deficient individuals. These complexes show promise as an efficient and less toxic iron supplement for treating iron deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Iron deficiency is a prevalent global health issue.
- Conventional iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects.
- Ferric iron (Fe3+) absorption is generally less efficient than ferrous iron (Fe2+).
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the absorption of iron from ferric hydroxypyranone complexes (maltol, ethyl maltol) with ferrous sulfate.
- To evaluate iron absorption in both healthy individuals and those with iron deficiency.
Main Methods:
- Utilized whole-body counting to measure 59Fe absorption.
- Administered iron as ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) and ferric hydroxypyranone complexes.
- Studied absorption in normal subjects and patients with iron deficiency.
Main Results:
- Iron (Fe) from ferric hydroxypyranone complexes was absorbed nearly as well as iron from ferrous sulfate (FeSO4).
- Absorption of Fe3+ from hydroxypyranone complexes significantly exceeded that from simple Fe3+ salts.
Conclusions:
- Ferric hydroxypyranone complexes represent a highly absorbable form of iron.
- These complexes may offer an effective and better-tolerated alternative for iron deficiency treatment.