Interaction guide

Iron, coffee, and tea

Coffee and tea can reduce non-heme iron absorption when they share the same absorption window, especially in iron-focused protocols.

Default spacing rule

Use a cleaner iron slot away from coffee, tea, calcium-heavy meals, and mineral multis when the goal is intentional iron absorption.

Interaction map

Iron, coffee, and tea: the decision path

Check these

Iron supplementsCoffeeBlack or green teaCalcium-heavy mealsMineral multivitamins

Default action

Use a cleaner iron slot away from coffee, tea, calcium-heavy meals, and mineral multis when the goal is intentional iron absorption.

Why it matters

Lower non-heme iron absorptionConfusing ferritin follow-upDose escalation when timing is the real issue

Products to check

  • Iron supplements
  • Coffee
  • Black or green tea
  • Calcium-heavy meals
  • Mineral multivitamins

Why it matters

  • Lower non-heme iron absorption
  • Confusing ferritin follow-up
  • Dose escalation when timing is the real issue

Sources and related pages

NIH ODS iron fact sheetHurrell and Egli review of iron bioavailabilityIron monographCalcium and iron timing guideStack timing planner

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Generated by AI. Always verify with a healthcare professional. Educational information only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.