Top 5 Best Iron Supplements For Breastfeeding Mothers in 2024

GirlBoss Team By GirlBoss Team | February 23, 2024

Iron is a crucial mineral necessary for various functions in the human body, most importantly, manufacturing hemoglobin that transports oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. A frequent health issue observed, especially in women, is iron deficiency that can result in anemia, exhaustion, and other health problems. It is critical for breastfeeding mothers to intake sufficient iron to not only produce sufficient milk for their infants but also to sustain their own iron levels.

Iron supplements are a popular way to increase iron intake, but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. The best iron supplement for breastfeeding mothers should be safe, effective, and easy to take. It should also be free from any harmful additives or allergens that could harm the baby.

When choosing an iron supplement, it’s essential to pay attention to the type of iron it contains. There are two types of iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is found in animal-based foods and is more easily absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron is found in plant-based foods and is not as easily absorbed. Iron supplements typically contain non-heme iron, but some may also include heme iron.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various iron supplements to identify the best options for breastfeeding mothers. We considered factors such as the type of iron, dosage, safety, and ease of use. After careful consideration, we have identified the top iron supplements that can help breastfeeding mothers maintain their iron levels and support their overall health.

Best Iron Supplements for Breastfeeding Mothers

As breastfeeding mothers, it is important to make sure we are getting all the necessary nutrients to keep both ourselves and our babies healthy. Iron is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. However, it can be challenging to get enough iron from our diets alone. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best iron supplements for breastfeeding mothers to ensure that we are getting the recommended daily intake of iron. These supplements have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.

Needed Iron Supplement

Needed Iron Supplement
Check Price on Amazon

We highly recommend the Needed Iron Supplement for breastfeeding mothers who are looking to increase their iron intake.

Pros

Cons

This iron supplement is bound to Glycine for better absorption and digestive comfort, making it easy to take without experiencing nausea. The daily dosage can be tailored to meet your unique needs, so you can talk to your health practitioner about testing your iron status before, during, and after pregnancy.

Iron is best taken solo, as it can interact negatively with other nutrients. That is why it is best to take only as much as you need. The Needed Iron Supplement is designed to support blood volume expansion, thyroid and immune function, fighting fatigue, and for adequate birth weight and baby’s on-time neurodevelopment.

This supplement is perfect for breastfeeding mothers who need to increase their iron intake. It is easy to take and does not cause nausea, so you can take it without worrying about side effects. However, you may need to take up to four capsules daily, which may be inconvenient for some. Overall, we highly recommend the Needed Iron Supplement for breastfeeding mothers who are looking to increase their iron intake.

MaryRuth Organics | Liquid Iron Supplement Prenatal & Postnatal for Pregnant & Lactating

MaryRuth Organics Liquid Iron Supplement
Check Price on Amazon

If you are a breastfeeding mother looking for a liquid iron supplement, MaryRuth Organics Liquid Iron Supplement is a great option for you.

Pros

Cons

We have found that MaryRuth Organics Liquid Iron Supplement is a great way to support our iron intake. The liquid form makes it easy to take and absorb, which is especially important for breastfeeding mothers who may have difficulty absorbing iron. We also love the delicious berry flavor, which makes it easy to incorporate into our daily routine.

One of the best things about this supplement is that it is free of common allergens, including dairy, nuts, gluten, wheat, soy, corn, and nightshades. This makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Additionally, it is vegan and non-GMO, which is a plus.

However, we did find that the bottle only contains 30 servings, so you may need to purchase it frequently if you plan to take it regularly. It also needs to be taken at least 2 hours before or after consuming calcium to optimize absorption, which can be a bit of a hassle. Lastly, the price is a bit higher compared to other iron supplements on the market.

Overall, we would recommend MaryRuth Organics Liquid Iron Supplement to any breastfeeding mother looking for a high-quality iron supplement. It is easy to take, delicious, and free of common allergens.

Solgar Gentle Iron

Solgar Gentle Iron
Check Price on Amazon

If you’re a breastfeeding mother looking for an iron supplement that is gentle on your stomach, then Solgar Gentle Iron might be the right choice for you.

Pros

Cons

As a breastfeeding mother, it’s important to maintain adequate iron levels to support both your own health and your baby’s. Solgar Gentle Iron is a great option because it promotes normal red blood cell production and supports energy utilization, which can help combat fatigue and boost your overall well-being.

One of the best things about this iron supplement is that it’s non-constipating and gentle on the stomach. Unlike other iron supplements that can cause digestive upset, Solgar Gentle Iron is formulated with bisglycinate, which is a well-tolerated form of iron that is easy on the digestive system.

Another benefit of Solgar Gentle Iron is that it’s suitable for vegetarians, so it’s a good choice for those who follow a plant-based diet.

However, it’s important to note that it may take a while to see results with this supplement, so it’s important to be patient and consistent with your use. Additionally, some may find the capsules too large to swallow, so this may not be the best option for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. Finally, for those with severe iron deficiency anemia, this supplement may not provide enough iron to make a significant impact.

Overall, if you’re a breastfeeding mother looking for a gentle, non-constipating iron supplement that promotes normal red blood cell production and supports energy utilization, then Solgar Gentle Iron is definitely worth considering.

Pink Stork Total Iron Supplement

Pink Stork Total Iron Supplement
Check Price on Amazon

If you’re a breastfeeding mother looking for an iron supplement, we highly recommend the Pink Stork Total Iron Supplement. It contains 100% of your daily value of non-constipating Iron Bisglycinate, which is easily absorbed by the body. Plus, it has Vitamin C to support iron absorption and your immune system.

Pros

Cons

We found that taking one capsule daily was easy to incorporate into our daily routine. The capsules are easy to open and can be added to our favorite drinks, yogurt, or smoothies if we don’t want to swallow them. We didn’t experience any negative side effects while taking the supplement.

Pink Stork is a women-owned and women-run company, which is a bonus for supporting female-led businesses. They offer a variety of products for women at different stages of life, so it’s worth checking out their other offerings.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a clean, natural, and effective iron supplement for breastfeeding mothers, we highly recommend the Pink Stork Total Iron Supplement.

Mother’s Promise Prenatal & Postnatal Multivitamin

Mother's Promise Prenatal & Postnatal Multivitamin
Check Price on Amazon

If you are a breastfeeding mother looking for a reliable iron supplement, then the Mother’s Promise Prenatal & Postnatal Multivitamin is worth considering.

Pros

Cons

This liquid prenatal vitamin complex is precisely what a soon-to-be or nursing mother needs. It contains a rich vitamin and mineral blend to support even plant-based and vegan diets. The product is designed to cover your nutritional needs before, during, and after pregnancy, making it a reliable choice for breastfeeding mothers.

The vegan formula with plant-based D3, folate, and more makes it suitable for those who follow a plant-based or vegan diet. The sugar-free and natural berry flavor make it convenient to take by itself or added to any drink, juice, or smoothie. You can take it on an empty stomach or at mealtime, making it perfect for women who prefer vitamin formats other than pills, powders, or tablets.

The Mother’s Promise Prenatal & Postnatal Multivitamin is expertly designed and made in the USA. It is sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and allergen-free, making it safe for most users. The product is Paleo and Celiac-friendly too! It is manufactured in a state-of-the-art cGMP facility and lab tested in the USA to guarantee that you receive the purest, safest, and highest quality products on the market.

In conclusion, if you are a breastfeeding mother looking for a reliable iron supplement, the Mother’s Promise Prenatal & Postnatal Multivitamin is a great choice. It is designed to support prenatal and postnatal health, vegan-friendly, and sugar-free. It is expertly designed and made in the USA, making it a safe and reliable product.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best iron supplement for breastfeeding mothers, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for products that meet the following criteria:

1. Iron Content

The most important factor to consider when choosing an iron supplement is the amount of iron it contains. Breastfeeding mothers require more iron than the average woman, so look for products that provide at least 100% of the daily recommended value (18 mg) of iron per serving.

2. Absorption

Iron supplements come in many different forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. Some forms of iron are more easily absorbed by the body than others. For example, heme iron (found in animal products) is more easily absorbed than non-heme iron (found in plant-based products). Look for supplements that contain heme iron or are formulated for optimal absorption.

3. Additional Nutrients

Iron supplements may also contain additional nutrients, such as vitamin C, which can help improve iron absorption. Look for products that contain complementary nutrients to ensure maximum benefit.

4. Safety

Iron supplements can cause side effects, such as constipation and nausea, so it’s important to choose a product that is safe and well-tolerated. Look for products that are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives and have been tested for purity and potency.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best iron supplement for your needs as a breastfeeding mother. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of iron deficiency in breastfeeding mothers?

Iron deficiency is common among breastfeeding mothers and can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. It’s important to keep an eye out for these symptoms and speak with a healthcare provider if they persist.

How can breastfeeding mothers meet their iron requirements?

Breastfeeding mothers can meet their iron requirements by consuming iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy green vegetables. It’s also important to consume vitamin C-rich foods to aid in iron absorption.

What are the best dietary sources of iron for lactating mothers?

The best dietary sources of iron for lactating mothers include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale.

Is it safe for mothers to take iron supplements while breastfeeding?

Yes, it is safe for mothers to take iron supplements while breastfeeding. However, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

How can iron supplements affect a breastfed baby’s digestion and stool color?

Iron supplements can cause a breastfed baby’s stool to turn green or black, but this is normal and not a cause for concern. However, if a baby experiences diarrhea or constipation, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.

What steps can mothers take to increase iron levels in their breastfed babies?

Mothers can increase iron levels in their breastfed babies by introducing iron-rich foods such as pureed meats, beans, and fortified cereals. It’s also important to continue breastfeeding to provide additional nutrients and aid in iron absorption.

We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission.