Should my multivitamin contain Iron?

Q: Should iron be included in a multivitamin supplement for an eighteen year old male?   -S. Chan

A: Unless his health care practitioner indicates otherwise, iron supplementation is not recommended. Most multivitamin/multimineral supplements formulated for men do not include iron. A hereditary and asymptomatic condition called hemochromatosis may cause iron to build-up and can potentially lead to a more serious disease. The condition does not affect menstruating women, since iron levels are reduced via menstrual flow. If a young adult (male or female) complains of fatigue, blood tests can determine whether the cause is low levels of iron, vitamin B12, or low blood sugar. Food allergies should also be considered. Eating and juicing raw vegetables and fruit can boost energy and provide essential nutrients.