Levels of iron as seen in prescription tablets can damage cells' DNA
Causes DNA repair systems to work harder than usual for up to 6 hours
Researchers urge people not to stop taking their supplements if prescribed
In future, doctors may need to think about the dose they give to patients.
1.Iron tablets taken by millions of people could damage the body within just 10 minutes, a study has warned.

2.Tests showed the mineral rapidly causes DNA damage in blood vessels.

3.While they were carried out in a lab setting, rather than living people, researchers found the levels of iron given in supplements may be too high and harmful.

4.Iron supplements may contain 10 times more than is necessary for health, the researchers said.

5.In future, doctors may want to think carefully about prescribing the minimum dose of iron necessary to patients who need it, researchers said.

HOW MUCH IRON DO WE NEED? 

1.Women need more iron to remain healthy than men.

2.The NHS recommends men need 8.7mg a day for men while women need 14.8mg a day.

3.Most people should be able get all the iron they need from their daily diet.

4.Women need more iron because of blood loss during menstruation.

5.Pregnant women may also need iron supplements to ensure they get enough for their growing baby.

6.Good sources of iron include dark leafy vegetables, brown rice, meat and fish, nuts and seeds eggs and dried fruit.