Evidence supporting the use of: Iron
For the health condition: Heart (weakness)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Iron is scientifically used to support heart health, particularly in cases where heart weakness is due to iron deficiency anemia or chronic heart failure. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood. In patients with chronic heart failure, iron deficiency is common and can worsen symptoms like fatigue and exercise intolerance, which are sometimes perceived as “heart weakness.” Randomized controlled trials, such as the FAIR-HF and CONFIRM-HF studies, have shown that intravenous iron therapy (ferric carboxymaltose) in patients with heart failure and iron deficiency improves symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life. The European Society of Cardiology recommends screening for and treating iron deficiency in patients with heart failure.

However, iron supplementation is not universally beneficial for all heart conditions and should not be used indiscriminately. In people without iron deficiency, excess iron can be harmful to the heart and other organs. The evidence for oral iron supplementation is weaker, as absorption can be impaired in heart failure patients. Thus, the scientific support is moderate (rated 3), with strong evidence limited to certain heart failure patients with proven iron deficiency. In summary, iron therapy for “heart weakness” is scientifically validated, but only in specific clinical scenarios, and should be guided by medical evaluation rather than general use.

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