Can Maltofer (Iron) and Zinc Picolinate 30 Be Taken Together?
Iron and zinc supplements should ideally be taken separately, with zinc taken between meals and iron taken with food, as concurrent administration can reduce zinc absorption when given in supplemental form rather than in food.
Timing and Food Considerations
Zinc Picolinate Administration
- Take zinc supplements 30 minutes before meals for optimal absorption 1, 2
- Zinc picolinate specifically shows superior absorption compared to other zinc forms and should be taken between meals rather than with food 3
- When zinc is taken with food, it may direct absorbed zinc differently toward metabolic processes, though this doesn't necessarily reduce plasma zinc concentrations 4
Maltofer (Iron Polymaltose) Administration
- Take Maltofer with food to improve tolerability and reduce gastrointestinal side effects 2
- Iron supplements are generally recommended to be taken between meals for optimal absorption, but Maltofer specifically is better tolerated with food
The Iron-Zinc Interaction Problem
When Taken as Supplements Together
- High iron concentrations (>25 mg) can negatively affect zinc absorption when given together in supplemental form 5
- This interaction occurs specifically when iron and zinc are given as ionic species in solution or supplements, not when consumed together in food 5
- The total amount of ionic species affects zinc absorption, with doses exceeding 25 mg of iron producing measurable effects on zinc absorption 5
Practical Solution
- Separate the doses by several hours: Take zinc picolinate 30 minutes before breakfast, and take Maltofer with lunch or dinner 1, 2, 5
- This separation prevents the competitive inhibition that occurs when both minerals are present simultaneously in the gastrointestinal tract 5, 6
Monitoring Considerations
For Long-Term Supplementation
- Monitor serum zinc levels and alkaline phosphatase periodically, especially with concurrent iron supplementation 7, 1
- Monitor copper status when taking 30 mg daily zinc, as high zinc intakes can induce copper deficiency 2
- Assess iron status (ferritin, hemoglobin) to ensure adequate iron absorption despite separated dosing 7
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not take both supplements simultaneously, even though food-based iron and zinc don't interact significantly 5
- Avoid taking zinc with high-phytate foods (cereals, corn, rice), as phytate strongly inhibits zinc absorption 6
- Do not take zinc with fluoroquinolone antibiotics (like moxifloxacin), as zinc reduces their absorption 7
- Be aware that zinc picolinate may cause mild gastrointestinal upset when taken on an empty stomach; if this occurs, taking it with a small amount of low-phytate food is acceptable 3, 6