NutriStack
Iron and Probiotics, timing-sensitive.
Iron supplements can disrupt gut microbiome composition. However, certain probiotic strains may actually enhance iron absorption.
One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
Same shape as the other 1,729 pairs in the public database.
From the interaction database
What the row says.
Every entry follows the same shape: what is happening, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
At a glance
- Substances
- Iron and Probiotics
- Pair type
- Timing Sensitive
- Evidence (highest tier)
- Emerging
- Source citations
- 1 source
- Stack Score effect
- −5 to your Stack Score (per scored timing-sensitive row).
- Scope
- Supplement × Supplement
- Last verified
- May 30, 2026
Timing Sensitive · Emerging evidence
Timing Sensitive
What is happening. Iron supplements can disrupt gut microbiome composition. However, certain probiotic strains may actually enhance iron absorption.
Mechanism. Unabsorbed iron in the colon promotes pathogenic bacteria growth (via iron-dependent virulence factors). Probiotics maintain beneficial flora. Some strains reduce ferric to ferrous iron, enhancing absorption.
Recommendation. Separate by 2 hours. Some Lactobacillus strains can increase iron absorption, so probiotics may be beneficial for iron-supplementing individuals.
Minimum separation. 120
Sources (1)
- Zimmermann MB et al. The effects of iron fortification on the gut microbiota in African children. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010
Stack Score
How this pair moves the number.
Effect on the composite score
If both Iron and Probiotics are in the same stack, this pair applies −5 to your Stack Score (per scored timing-sensitive row).
The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.
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