PPIs reduce non-heme iron absorption
Gastric acid is required to reduce ferric iron to the absorbable ferrous form. PPI use can worsen iron-deficiency anemia, especially in people with marginal iron status.
If iron-deficient on PPIs, take iron bisglycinate (requires less acid) with vitamin C to enhance absorption. Consider checking ferritin.
Take iron 2+ hours away from PPI with 500mg vitamin C
PPIs reduce non-heme iron absorption. If iron-deficient on PPIs, take iron bisglycinate (requires less acid) with vitamin C to enhance absorption. Consider checking ferritin.
Take iron 2+ hours away from PPI with 500mg vitamin C
This interaction is rated “Caution” by Formulate. Gastric acid is required to reduce ferric iron to the absorbable ferrous form. PPI use can worsen iron-deficiency anemia, especially in people with marginal iron status.
Studies from our registry that mention iron or ppi. Each links to the primary source and the other Formulate pages citing it.
Mentions iron · 2017
Oral iron supplements increase hepcidin and decrease iron absorption from daily or twice-daily doses in iron-depleted young women
Stoffel NU, Cercamondi CI, Brittenham G, et al. · Blood
Landmark absorption study showing iron supplements taken daily (or twice-daily) trigger hepcidin elevation that blocks subsequent absorption — supporting alternate-day dosing as more efficient for iron repletion.
Mentions iron · 2010
Iron bioavailability and dietary reference values
Hurrell R, Egli I · American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Reviews enhancers (vitamin C, meat) and inhibitors (phytate, polyphenols, calcium) of non-heme iron absorption, providing the mechanistic basis for pairing iron with vitamin C and separating it from tea/coffee.
Mentions iron · 2000
Prediction of dietary iron absorption: an algorithm for calculating absorption and bioavailability
Hallberg and Hulthén · American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Foundational model for non-heme iron absorption factoring vitamin C, phytates, tannins, and calcium interactions.
Other interactions to know
Calcium significantly reduces iron absorption
Iron reduces levothyroxine absorption
Long-term PPI use reduces B12 absorption
PPIs can cause hypomagnesemia
Fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines chelate iron
Zinc and iron compete for absorption
Antacids significantly reduce iron absorption
PPIs reduce calcium carbonate absorption
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Medical disclaimer. This page is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
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