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Has anyone else had a problem with iron anemia and vitamin D deficiency?

A MySpondylitisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Columbus, OH

I have had vitamin D deficiency for years and regularly take supplements and was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia in the hospital in March. While I was in the hospital I was given iron by IV. I have added more foods with high vitamin D and iron to my diet but I can't seem to make any headway with getting my numbers where my PCP wants them.

September 26, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members connected over the shared struggle of managing iron anemia and vitamin D deficiency despite taking supplements and adjusting their... Read more

Members connected over the shared struggle of managing iron anemia and vitamin D deficiency despite taking supplements and adjusting their diets, with many noting that oral supplements often fail to raise their levels without IV infusions or injections. Several members shared practical strategies including taking iron with vitamin C to boost absorption, checking B12 levels alongside iron and vitamin D, using probiotics to improve gut absorption, and switching from proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec to Zantac since PPIs can block nutrient absorption. A recurring theme was the frustration of numbers refusing to budge despite best efforts, the chronic fatigue that comes with deficiency, and the importance of working with a gastroenterologist to understand why the body may not be absorbing these vital nutrients properly.

A MySpondylitisTeam Member

Its because your body will be using all its iron reserves focusing on regrowth of calcium to repair what doesnt need repairing as is big factor of AS

September 27, 2018
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

since adolescences i have struggled with the same issues ~ the only time my “numbers” are normal is with infusion or injection
i eat well and take supplements but without much success
best to you!!

October 2, 2018
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

Hi @A MySpondylitisTeam Member, ditto, I am low on my iron by blood tests. I take Calcium with D in it for Osteoporosis. If you take Iron pills you should take it with Vit C, and take it 20 minutes before other meds. Vit C increases the iron absorption; other meds inhibit the effectiveness of iron supplements. Fatigue is a symptom of iron deficiency. Whether our bodies absorb anything depends on the bacteria in the stomach and what you put in your stomach, food and beverage, at any give time. A gastroenterologist is best to follow you for anemia. I am a big believer in pre and probiotics to get the stomach right.

September 26, 2018
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

Take Vitamin D3. Everyone with inflammatory disease has a deficiency. I take 1000 mg. a day. If you are worried- get it tested. Vitamin D deficiency causes all kinds of problems. Check your B 12 as well. You are probably fine with iron- the B 12 is what you need. When in doubt- check it out.

January 8, 2019
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

I am also on many supplements, except iron. But do you take proton pmp inhibitors, like Prilosec? My nutrients were being blocked and washed out of my system by Prilosec. I take Zantac which doens’t help as well but my nutrients are improved. I will always be on Vitamin D, calcium,. Magnesium, etc...

January 9, 2019

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