I wonder about
Slow-Fe... One of the limiting factors for bacterial growth is iron. Using a time released form of iron will supply gut bacteria with all the iron they need for growth. In addition, almost all your iron absorption happens in the duodenum and while there is some formation of feritin in the gut lining, it is almost entirely lost due to tissue sloughing in the gut. The factor that causes poor iron uptake is the inflammation associated with chronic disease. This is well known and applies to many chronic illnesses. There are a number of adverse effects related to iron's impact on oxidative processes which may actually make inflammation worse.
I have never heard it suggested in this forum that iron deficiency be treated by iron supplements as well as erythropoeitin, but that is probably the only way short of iron infusions to increase iron stores. Erythropoeitin is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory compound that promotes the formation of red blood cells. It also regulates the inflammatory oxidative processes catalysed by iron. Has anyone ever had their doctor prescribe iron PLUS erythropoeitin?
Sorry for the jargon - I have just been reading more information about
iron than you would ever want to see. (
Iron Behaving Badly) It is mainly concerned with problems due to excess iron, but it does touch on deficiencies as well.
Post Edited (Keeper) : 8/6/2009 2:28:57 PM (GMT-6)