Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the human body. It helps in the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to all parts of the body. However, many people, especially women, suffer from iron deficiency, which can lead to anemia, fatigue, and other health problems. This is where iron supplements come in.
Iron supplements are a convenient and effective way to increase the levels of iron in the body. They come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and gummies. However, not all iron supplements are created equal, and it is essential to choose the right one for your needs.
When choosing the best iron supplement, the critical factor to consider is 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 less readily absorbed. Therefore, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, you may need to take a higher dose of non-heme iron.
We spent hours researching and testing various iron supplements to identify the ones that are most effective and easy to take. In the following sections, we will discuss the top iron supplements on the market and what makes them stand out.
Best Iron Supplements
We understand that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge, especially when it comes to getting all the necessary nutrients. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a significant role in maintaining good health. It helps transport oxygen to the body's cells, supports the immune system, and helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. However, getting enough iron from your diet can be difficult, especially for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. That's where iron supplements come in handy. In this article, we have researched and compiled a list of the best iron supplements available on Amazon. Our list includes products that are highly rated, well-reviewed, and formulated with high-quality ingredients to help you meet your daily iron requirements.
MegaFood Blood Builder - Iron Supplement
We highly recommend the MegaFood Blood Builder - Iron Supplement for anyone looking for a gentle and effective source of iron with vital nutrients.
Pros
- The product is backed up by science and was shown in an 8 week clinical trial to increase iron levels without constipation.
- The real food like beets and oranges, with key nutrients like folate, iron, and B12, help to improve energy levels and combat fatigue.
- The product is suitable for everyone including menstruating women, teenage girls, pregnant women, vegans, vegetarians, athletes, and recent blood donors.
Cons
- The pills are a little large if you have a problem with size.
- There is a bit of an aftertaste if you let it sit on your tongue too long.
- The product is not intended for children.
MegaFood Blood Builder - Iron Supplement is a high-quality product that is tested for over 125 chemical substances. This vegan supplement is made without gluten, dairy, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, fish, shellfish or sesame in a GMP facility. The product can be taken any time of day with a beverage, even on an empty stomach.
The MegaFood Blood Builder - Iron Supplement is the perfect supplement for anyone looking to improve their iron levels without any side effects. The product is gentle, effective, and suitable for everyone. We highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality iron supplement.
Nature Made Iron Supplement
If you are looking for a reliable iron supplement, Nature Made Iron 65 mg (325 mg Ferrous Sulfate) Tablets might be a good option for you.
Pros
- Provides essential iron for red blood cell formation
- Supports healthy cognitive function
- Gluten-free with no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors
Cons
- May cause constipation for some users
- Can cause black stool
- Heart palpitations may occur in some users
We have tried this supplement and found it to be helpful in maintaining healthy iron levels. It is easy to take with water and a meal, and the 180-count bottle provides a 180-day supply. We appreciate that it is gluten-free and contains no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors.
However, we did experience some constipation while taking this supplement, and it may cause black stool. Additionally, some users may experience heart palpitations while taking iron supplements.
Overall, if you are looking for a reliable iron supplement to support your red blood cell formation and cognitive function, Nature Made Iron 65 mg (325 mg Ferrous Sulfate) Tablets might be a good option for you. Just be aware of the potential side effects and consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement
If you're looking for a doctor-recommended iron supplement that's easy on your stomach, Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement is a great choice.
Pros
- Slow release system for less discomfort
- Non-constipating formula
- High potency iron for daily use
Cons
- Pills are sealed and need to be opened with scissors
- May cause digestive side effects in some people
- Not vegan-friendly
We've been using Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement for a while now and have found it to be effective in boosting our iron levels without causing any major digestive issues. The slow release system helps to minimize discomfort, and the high potency formula means we only need to take one pill a day.
While some people may experience digestive side effects, we haven't had any major issues. However, we do wish the pills were easier to open - having to use scissors to cut through the seal can be a bit of a hassle.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable iron supplement that's gentle on your stomach, Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement is definitely worth considering.
Pure Encapsulations Iron-C | Iron and Vitamin C Supplement
If you are looking for a premium iron supplement that is free from unnecessary binders, fillers, and preservatives, Pure Encapsulations Iron-C might be the right choice for you. It is a highly utilizable form of iron that supports optimal muscle function and enhances the intestinal absorption of iron.
Pros
- Provides a highly utilizable form of iron to support optimal muscle function
- Enhances the intestinal absorption of iron and provides immune support
- Made with only premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers and free from unnecessary binders, fillers, and preservatives
Cons
- Some users have experienced broken capsules upon opening the bottle
- May not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications
- May cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals
We have been using Pure Encapsulations Iron-C for a few weeks now and have noticed an increase in energy levels and a decrease in fatigue. The capsules are easy to swallow and do not have a strong metallic taste like some other iron supplements. We appreciate the fact that the product is free from unnecessary additives and is made with high-quality ingredients.
One thing to note is that some users have reported broken capsules upon opening the bottle, which can be messy and result in a loss of product. Additionally, while iron is an essential nutrient, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications. Some users have also reported gastrointestinal discomfort after taking the supplement.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality iron supplement that is free from unnecessary additives and supports optimal muscle function, Pure Encapsulations Iron-C may be worth considering. As with any supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting use.
Vitron-C Iron Supplement
We highly recommend Vitron-C Iron Supplement for those with low iron levels or iron-deficiency anemia. This high potency iron supplement is formulated with Vitamin C to help your body better absorb iron, and it contains carbonyl iron which provides gradual and gentle iron absorption and helps minimize constipation.
Pros
- Boosts energy by helping to fight fatigue in users with low iron levels
- Contains 65 mg of elemental iron and 125 mg of Vitamin C to support a healthy immune system and to improve iron absorption
- Dye-free, gluten-free, and vegan with no artificial colors or flavors
Cons
- May cause constipation in some users
- Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort
- May not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications
Vitron-C Iron Supplement has become a vital addition to our daily routine. This once-daily, high-potency iron plus vitamin C formula is a game-changer for maintaining healthy red blood cells. We appreciate that it is dye-free, gluten-free, and vegan with no artificial colors or flavors.
We have noticed an increase in our energy levels since taking this supplement, and it has helped fight fatigue caused by low iron levels. However, some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or constipation. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking this supplement if you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications.
Overall, we highly recommend Vitron-C Iron Supplement to those looking for a high-quality iron supplement to support their health.
Solgar Gentle Iron
If you are looking for a gentle iron supplement that won't cause constipation, Solgar Gentle Iron is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Promotes normal red blood cell production and supports energy utilization
- Non-constipating and gentle on the stomach
- Suitable for vegetarians
Cons
- May take longer to see results compared to other iron supplements
- Large capsules may be difficult to swallow for some people
- May not be suitable for those with severe iron deficiency anemia
We have been using Solgar Gentle Iron for a few months now and have noticed an improvement in our energy levels and overall well-being. The capsules are easy to digest and do not cause any stomach upset or constipation, which is a common issue with other iron supplements.
One of the best things about Solgar Gentle Iron is that it is suitable for vegetarians and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. The capsules are also gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a great choice for people with dietary restrictions.
While Solgar Gentle Iron may take longer to see results compared to other iron supplements, we feel that the gentle and non-constipating nature of the supplement is worth the wait. The only downside is that the capsules are quite large, which may be difficult to swallow for some people.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a gentle and effective iron supplement that won't cause constipation or stomach upset, Solgar Gentle Iron is definitely worth trying.
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron 30ct Capsules
We highly recommend this product for those looking for a natural and effective iron supplement.
Pros
- The vitamin code raw iron pills contain 22mg of gentle whole food iron and whole food vitamins C, B-12, and folate to support iron absorption and utilization.
- Our vegan iron supplement includes a RAW probiotic and enzyme blend for digestive support and is non-constipating.
- Vitamin Code iron supplements are made from 23 RAW fruits and vegetables together with natural food cofactors.
Cons
- The product can be a bit pricey compared to other iron supplements.
- It may take some time before you start to see the effects of the supplement.
- Some may find the capsules a bit difficult to swallow.
We have been using this product for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels and overall well-being. The fact that it is made from whole food ingredients and is vegan-friendly is a huge plus for us. We also appreciate that it includes probiotics and enzymes for digestive support, which can be a common issue with iron supplements.
The capsules are easy to take, although they may be a bit large for some people. We also appreciate that the supplement is non-constipating, which can be a common side effect of iron supplements. Overall, we highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a natural and effective iron supplement.
Buying Guide
When choosing an iron supplement, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you are getting the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Form of Iron
Iron supplements come in different forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate. Ferrous sulfate is the most common and affordable form, but it can cause gastrointestinal side effects. Ferrous gluconate and ferrous fumarate are gentler on the stomach, but they may not be as effective in raising iron levels.
Dosage
The dosage of iron supplements varies depending on the product. It is important to choose a product with a dosage that meets your needs. Too much iron can be harmful, so it is important to follow the recommended dosage.
Absorption
Iron supplements are not always well-absorbed by the body. Look for a product that contains iron in a form that is easy for the body to absorb, such as iron bisglycinate or iron glycinate.
Additional Nutrients
Some iron supplements contain additional nutrients, such as vitamin C or vitamin B12, that can help with absorption and improve overall health. Consider choosing a product that includes these additional nutrients.
Price
Iron supplements vary in price, so it is important to find a product that fits your budget. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best quality.
By considering these factors, you can choose an iron supplement that is effective, safe, and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can iron supplements be taken for optimal absorption?
Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food for optimal absorption. Avoid taking iron supplements with dairy products, tea, or coffee as they can interfere with iron absorption. Vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, so taking iron supplements with orange juice or other vitamin C-rich foods can be helpful.
What are the best iron supplements for men?
The best iron supplements for men are those that contain a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body, such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate. Men may also benefit from iron supplements that contain vitamin C to enhance iron absorption.
Which type of iron supplement is most easily absorbed?
Ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate are the most easily absorbed forms of iron supplements. These forms of iron are often found in over-the-counter iron supplements.
What are the top liquid iron supplements available?
Some of the top liquid iron supplements available include Floradix Iron + Herbs, Solgar Gentle Iron, and MegaFood Blood Builder. These supplements are easily absorbed by the body and can be a good option for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.
What is the best iron supplement for teenage girls?
Teenage girls may benefit from iron supplements that contain a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body, such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate. Iron supplements that also contain vitamin C can enhance iron absorption.
What is the recommended iron supplement for children?
The recommended iron supplement for children will depend on their age and specific needs. It is important to consult with a pediatrician before giving children iron supplements. Some common iron supplements for children include Fer-In-Sol and Poly-Vi-Sol with Iron.