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| | Iron: Minerals and Electrolytes: Merck Manual Home Edition |
 | | Iron deficiency is the most common mineral deficiency in the world, causing anemia in men, women, and children. |
 | | In addition to anemia, iron deficiency may produce such symptoms as pica (a craving for nonfoods such as ice, dirt, or pure starch), spoon nails (a deformity in which the fingernails are thin and concave), and leg cramps at night. |
 | | Iron is absorbed best when the supplement is taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after meals, particularly if the meals include foods that reduce the absorption of iron (such as vegetable fibers, phytates, bran, coffee, and tea). |
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