What is Iron? Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many essential functions. It’s found in hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in our blood, and myoglobin, which helps our muscles store oxygen. Iron also helps our cells produce energy, and it plays a role in several important enzymes.
Because iron is so important, a deficiency can lead to anemia, which is a condition characterized by low levels of healthy red blood cells.
The most common symptom of anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Cold hands and feet
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Irritability
- Unusual cravings for non-food items (pica)
- Difficulty concentrating or decreased ability to think clearly
- Hair loss
- Sore or swollen tongue
- Brittle nails
If you think you might have an iron deficiency, it’s important to see a doctor for testing. They can check your blood levels and confirm whether or not you need a supplement.
Fortunately, iron deficiencies are relatively easy to treat with an iron supplement. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best iron supplements for people with anemia.
What to Look for in Iron Supplements
When you’re shopping for an iron supplement, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the form of iron in the product. The two most common forms are ferrous iron and ferric iron. Ferrous iron is easier for your body to absorb, so it’s the better choice if you can find it.
Second, look at the amount of iron in the supplement. If you’re iron deficient, you might need a high-dose supplement to correct your levels. However, too much iron can be toxic, so it’s important not to take more than you need.
Third, consider any other ingredients in the supplement. Some products contain additional vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial, such as vitamin C or folic acid. Others may contain herbs or other substances that are claimed to boost absorption or have other benefits.
Finally, always be sure to purchase an iron supplement manufactured by a trusted company and from a trusted source.
The Top 10 Supplements for Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron+C Gummies by Douglas Laboratories
Iron+C Gummies provides 18 mg of elemental iron from bioavailable iron pyrophosphate, a non-constipating form of iron, combined with vitamin C to enhance absorption and support healthy red blood cell function.
Reacted Iron by OrthoMolecular
Reacted Iron is a supplement that provides 29 mg of elemental iron per serving. It is formulated using the amino acid chelate form of iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and does not cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Iron Liquid by Pure Encapsulations
Iron Liquid from Pure Encapsulation is a convenient liquid iron supplement formula with high bioavailability to support normal hemoglobin and myoglobin function. Iron Liquid contains SunActive Fe, a micronized water-soluble form of iron with high bioavailability.
Premier Phyto-Iron by Premier Research Labs
Premier Phyto-Iron is a high-quality iron supplement that is designed to help improve the health of those suffering from anemia. Premier Phyto-Iron is also rich in vitamin C, which can help to boost the immune system. All of the ingredients in Premier Phyto-Iron are natural and there are no artificial additives or preservatives. The capsules are also plant-based, making them suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Blood Builder by MegaFood
MegaFood's Blood Builder is one of the most popular iron supplements on the market. It is clinically shown to increase iron levels without common gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea or constipation. MegaFood makes it with nourishing real foods, like beets and organic oranges, plus folic acid and B12 for healthy red blood cell production, and vitamin C to support iron absorption. Blood Builder is safe for menstruating women, teenage girls, pregnant women, vegans and vegetarians, athletes, and recent blood donors, all of whom are at increased risk of being low in iron. It is also available in convenient mini tablets.
Iron Plus from Energique
Iron Plus from Energique is an iron supplement that is formulated with Ferrous Glycinate and Vitamin C to enhance bioavailability. The amino acid chelate form is for maximum absorption and minimum GI discomfort. This product which comes in the form of vegetable capsules is also enhanced with Astragalus root extract to promote healthy red blood cell synthesis.
Ferrochel Iron Chelate from Designs for Health
Ferrochel is a potent iron supplement from Designs for Health that is safe for use by pregnant and lactating women, teenagers, and adults. It is very well tolerated by the gastrointestinal system. This amino acid chelated iron has a very high absorption rate.
Iron Glycinate from Xymogen
Iron Glycinate from Xymogen is a gentle and highly absorbable dietary iron supplement formula providing support for women's health. The amino acid glycine is one of the two starting materials the body uses to synthesize hemoglobin. Therefore, Iron Glycinate contributes two key factors for supporting healthy red blood cells. This form of iron has higher bioavailability, lower toxicity, less food reactivity, fewer food interactions, and longer shelf life than any other common form of iron.
Iron Glycinate from Xymogen is available in veggie capsules. It is suitable for vegetarians. And it DOES NOT CONTAIN: Wheat, gluten, corn protein, yeast, soy, animal or dairy products, artificial colors, sweeteners or preservatives.
Ferrasorb by Thorne Research
Ferrasorb by Thorne Research is a complete blood-building formula that provides iron, vitamins C and B6. Ferrasorb is best for those iron deficient wishing to increase their intake of iron and may be used as a blood-building formula. The active ingredients in Ferrasorb include two forms of vitamin B12 (adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin), folic acid (folinic acid and 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate), and iron picolinate, a very bioavailable form of iron. Ferrasorb comes in a hypromellose (derived from cellulose) capsule and contains no fillers or artificial ingredients.
Iron Shougui from White Tiger
Iron Shougui is an iron supplement with Chinese herbs used for iron deficiency, particularly for women. The herbs in Iron Shougui are traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat iron deficiency anemia. The main herb, tangkuei, is known for its ability to increase the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Other herbs like peony and astragalus help to build blood by tonifying the spleen and kidney. Rehmannia is another important herb that helps to regulate iron metabolism in the body. Finally, the molybdenum in Iron Shougui helps to prevent anemia by reducing the toxicity of iron in the body.
FAQs about Iron Deficiency Anemia and Iron Supplements
How much iron do I need each day?
The amount of iron you need each day, or the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), depends on your age, gender, and health. For example, the RDA for women aged 19-50 is 18 mg of iron per day, while for men it is 8 mg of iron per day. Pregnant women need 27 mg of iron per day.
Who is most at risk of not getting enough iron?
Certain groups of people are at greater risk of iron deficiency and need to be especially aware of their intake. These groups include pregnant women, women of childbearing age, infants and young children, vegans, and athletes. People with certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease may also be at risk. If you fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about whether you need to supplement your diet with iron.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency?
The most common symptom of iron deficiency is fatigue. Other symptoms may include:
- Pale skin
- Heart palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Brittle nails
- Inflammation or soreness of the tongue
How do I know if I have an iron deficiency?
There are a few ways to test for iron deficiency. A blood test measuring your hemoglobin levels can be used to diagnose anemia, which may be caused by iron deficiency. Your doctor may also order a ferritin test, which measures the amount of stored iron in your body, or a total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test, which measures how much iron your blood can bind to determine if you have any iron absorption issues.
What are the best sources of iron?
Iron is found in food in two forms, heme and non-heme iron. Heme iron, which makes up 40 percent of the iron in meat, poultry, and fish, is well absorbed. Non-heme iron, 60 percent of the iron in animal tissue and all the iron in plants (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts) is less well absorbed. Because absorption of non-heme iron increases with vitamin C intake, foods rich in both non-heme iron and vitamin C (such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli) are good sources of iron.
What are the best iron supplements?
There are many different types of iron dietary supplements on the market, and the best iron supplement for you depends on your individual needs. If you have anemia, your doctor may recommend a supplement that contains both iron and folic acid. If you have trouble absorbing iron, they may recommend oral iron supplements that contain ferrous gluconate or ferrous sulfate, which are forms of supplemental iron that are easier to absorb. Some people may also need to take a vitamin C supplement along with their iron supplement to help boost absorption.
What are the side effects of taking too much iron?
Iron is an essential nutrient, but it can be toxic in high amounts. The main side effects of iron overload are gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. More serious side effects include liver damage, heart problems, and increased risk of cancer. If you think you may be taking too much iron, talk to your doctor.
What causes anemia?
There are many possible causes of anemia, but the most common cause is iron deficiency. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When there isn't enough iron, the body can't produce enough hemoglobin, and as a result, not enough oxygen is transported to the cells. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms of anemia.
What are the symptoms of anemia?
The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, people may not experience any symptoms at all. In more severe cases, people may experience fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, or irregular heartbeat. If you think you may be experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
What is the best form of iron supplement to take?
There are many different types of iron supplements on the market, and the best one for you may depend on your particular situation. If you have anemia, your doctor may recommend a supplement that contains iron in a form that is easy for your body to absorb. This might be an iron bisglycinate supplement, which is well tolerated and easily absorbed. If you have trouble taking pills or are at risk for gastrointestinal bleeding, your doctor may recommend a liquid supplement instead as the best iron supplement for you.
What's the difference between ferrous gluconate and ferrous sulfate?
Ferrous gluconate and ferrous sulfate are both forms of iron that can be found in supplements. They are both easily absorbed by the body. However, ferrous sulfate may cause constipation and stomach upset more often than ferrous gluconate.
What are the side effects of iron supplements?
The most common side effects of iron supplements are constipation and stomach upset. However, taking iron supplements with food may help to reduce these side effects. Other potential side effects of iron supplements include black stools, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the supplement and talk to your doctor.
What is the best way to take iron supplements?
Iron supplements should be taken with food. This will help to reduce the side effects of constipation and stomach upset. It is also important to take iron supplementation with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice or a vitamin C supplement. This will help your body absorb the iron more effectively.
How often should I take an iron supplement?
Most people only need to take iron supplements once or twice a day. If you are taking more iron supplements than one, it's best to space them out so that you're not taking them all at once.
What is the best time of day to take iron supplements?
There is no best time of day to take iron supplements. However, it is important to take them with food and a source of vitamin C. This will help your body absorb the iron more effectively. You can take iron supplements at any time of day that works for you.
Can I take other supplements with iron?
Yes, you can take other supplements with iron. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about which supplements are right for you. Some supplements can interfere with the absorption of iron, so it is important to take them at different times of day.
How long does it take for iron supplements to work?
It usually takes 2-3 weeks for iron supplements to start working. You may not see a difference in your symptoms right away, but if you keep taking the supplements as directed, you should eventually start to feel better.
Do I need to take iron supplements forever?
No, you do not need to take iron supplements forever. However, if you have iron deficiency anemia, you will likely need to take them for a long time. Once your anemia is under control, your doctor may recommend that you take iron supplements less often.
Can I take an iron supplement if I have a sensitive stomach?
If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to take an iron supplement with food. You can also try a slow-release or timed-release formula.
The Bottom Line
Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many essential functions. If you have an iron deficiency, it’s important to see a doctor for testing. Iron supplements can correct low levels, but it’s important not to take more than you need. When shopping for an iron supplement, look for a product that has the right dosage for your needs and is easy for your body to absorb.
