Top 8 Best Iron Supplements

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining good health. It is necessary for producing hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin, leading to anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other health problems.

Iron supplements are a popular way to increase iron intake and prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia. However, not all iron supplements are created equal, and choosing the right one can be challenging. The critical thing to consider when selecting an iron supplement is the type of iron it contains. Some forms of iron are more easily absorbed by the body than others, and some can cause side effects such as constipation, nausea, and stomach upset.

We spent hours researching and testing ten different iron supplements to find the best one for overall health and effectiveness. Our top priority was finding a supplement that was easy to absorb and gentle on the stomach. We also looked for supplements that were free from unnecessary additives and easy to take.

After extensive testing, we found that the best iron supplement is the Ferrous Sulfate Iron Supplement Tablets by Nature Made. These tablets contain ferrous sulfate, a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body and has been shown to be effective in treating iron deficiency anemia. The tablets are also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, making them a safe and natural choice for those looking to increase their iron intake.

In the next section, we will dive deeper into the features and benefits of the Ferrous Sulfate Iron Supplement Tablets by Nature Made, and explain why they are the best choice for anyone looking to improve their iron levels.

Best Iron Supplements

We know how important it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and that includes taking the necessary vitamins and supplements. Iron is a crucial mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body and supports the immune system. However, it can be difficult to get enough iron through diet alone. That's why we've compiled a list of the best iron supplements on the market to help you maintain optimal health. Our team of experts has researched and tested various brands to ensure that only the highest quality products make it onto our list. Here are our top picks for the best iron supplements.

1. MegaFood Blood Builder

We highly recommend the MegaFood Blood Builder for anyone looking for a high-quality iron supplement that is gentle on the stomach and effective in increasing iron levels.

Pros

• Clinically shown to increase iron levels without side effects
• Formulated with vitamin C and beet root for vital nutrients
• Includes folic acid and vitamin B12 for healthy red blood cell production

Cons

• May cause constipation for some users
• Large pill size may be difficult to swallow for some
• Unflavored taste may not be pleasant for some users

We have been using the MegaFood Blood Builder for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels and overall health. The gentle iron tablets are easy on the stomach and do not cause any unpleasant side effects.

The addition of vitamin C and beet root provides essential nutrients that aid in the absorption of iron and support overall health. The inclusion of folic acid and vitamin B12 is also a great feature, as these vitamins are important for healthy red blood cell production.

While some users may experience constipation as a side effect, we have not experienced this issue. However, we do note that the large pill size may be difficult for some users to swallow. Additionally, the unflavored taste may not be pleasant for everyone.

Overall, we highly recommend the MegaFood Blood Builder for anyone looking for a high-quality iron supplement that is gentle on the stomach and effective in increasing iron levels.

2. Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement

If you're looking for a high potency iron supplement that is gentle on your stomach, Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement is the perfect choice.

Pros

• No.1 doctor recommended iron tablets for iron deficiency
• Non-constipating iron supplements that feature a special controlled release system, causing fewer digestive side effects
• Easy-to-swallow iron supplements for anemia

Cons

• May cause stool color change
• May constipate
• Not suitable for children

We've been using Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement for a while now, and we're impressed with how effective it is. It's gentle on the stomach, which is a huge plus, and the controlled release system ensures that the iron is delivered slowly to the body, minimizing digestive side effects.

One thing to note is that the supplement may cause stool color change and constipation, so it's important to follow the recommended dosage and talk to your doctor if you experience any discomfort.

Overall, we highly recommend Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement for anyone looking for a reliable and effective iron supplement. It's easy to swallow and provides the high potency iron you need to maintain good health.

3. Nature Made Iron Supplement

If you're looking for a reliable iron supplement, we recommend trying Nature Made Iron Supplement.

Pros

• Contains 180 tablets for a 180-day supply
• Supports healthy cognitive function and red blood cell formation
• Gluten-free with no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors

Cons

• May cause constipation or upset stomach if taken on an empty stomach
• Some users report a metallic aftertaste
• Not suitable for those with hemochromatosis or other iron overload disorders

We've personally used Nature Made Iron Supplement and found it to be effective in addressing iron deficiency. The tablets are easy to swallow and we appreciate that they're free of synthetic dyes and artificial flavors.

It's important to note that taking iron supplements on an empty stomach may cause constipation or stomach upset, so we recommend taking them with a meal. Some users report a metallic aftertaste, but we didn't experience this issue.

Overall, we think Nature Made Iron Supplement is a solid choice for those looking to address iron deficiency. As with any supplement, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen.

4. Thorne Iron Bisglycinate

We highly recommend Thorne Iron Bisglycinate for those looking for an iron supplement that is well-absorbed, non-constipating, and certified for sport.

Pros

• Provides 25 mg of elemental iron per capsule in a well-absorbed form
• Helps fight fatigue and other signs of iron deficiency
• Supports the formation of new red blood cells

Cons

• More expensive than other iron supplements
• May cause stomach discomfort if taken on an empty stomach
• May not be suitable for those with digestive issues

Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is an excellent choice for individuals who are looking for a high-quality iron supplement. The product provides 25 mg of elemental iron per capsule in a non-constipating, well-absorbed form as iron bisglycinate. The supplement helps fight fatigue and other signs of iron deficiency, which can manifest as weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, tinnitus, drowsiness, irritability, infrequent menstruation, and loss of libido. Additionally, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate supports the formation of new red blood cells, making it an essential mineral for maintaining overall health.

One of the best things about Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is that it is certified for sport. This means that the product supports high-performance nutrition programs and is NSF Certified for Sport. Thorne is chosen by champions and trusted by 100+ pro teams. Thorne is the only supplement manufacturer to collaborate with Mayo Clinic on wellness research and content. Thorne is also a proud partner of 11 U.S. Olympic Teams.

While Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is more expensive than other iron supplements, we believe that the higher cost is worth the investment for those who want a high-quality product. However, it may not be suitable for those with digestive issues as it can cause stomach discomfort if taken on an empty stomach.

In conclusion, we highly recommend Thorne Iron Bisglycinate for those looking for a well-absorbed, non-constipating, and certified for sport iron supplement.

5. Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement

We highly recommend Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement for those looking for a natural and easy-to-digest iron supplement.

Pros

• Provides essential daily dose of iron in liquid form along with Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C from rose hip, and herbal extracts
• Plant-based extract is gentle on the digestive system and absorbs easily
• All-natural fruit juice concentrates enhance the taste with pear, grape, black currant, orange, blackberry, and cherry juice concentrates with a touch of honey

Cons

• Some may not prefer the unflavored taste
• May require multiple bottles for those with severe iron deficiencies
• Slightly more expensive than other iron supplements on the market

Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is a high-quality product that has been verified for consistency, potency, and purity. As someone who has struggled with low iron levels, I have found this supplement to be effective in boosting my energy levels and improving my overall health. The liquid form is easy to take and does not cause any digestive discomfort. Plus, the natural fruit juice concentrates make it more enjoyable to consume.

I appreciate that Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is free of artificial additives or preservatives, non-GMO, vegetarian, kosher, and lactose-free. It is reassuring to know that this product is made in Germany by Salus Haus and distributed by Gaia Herbs.

While the unflavored taste may not be for everyone, I personally did not mind it. However, those with severe iron deficiencies may need to purchase multiple bottles to see significant improvements. Additionally, Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is slightly more expensive than other iron supplements on the market.

Overall, we believe that Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is a great choice for those looking for a natural and effective iron supplement.

6. Pure Encapsulations Iron-C | Iron and Vitamin C Supplement

If you're looking for an iron supplement that is highly utilizable and supports optimal muscle function, then Pure Encapsulations Iron-C is a great choice.

Pros

• Highly utilizable form of iron to support optimal muscle function
• Vitamin C enhances the intestinal absorption of iron and provides immune support
• Made with only premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers and guided by nutritional experts

Cons

• Some users reported that several capsules were busted upon opening the sealed bottle which made all of the remaining capsules powdery and messy
• A few users found the capsules to be difficult to swallow
• A small number of users found the product to be ineffective

We have been using Pure Encapsulations Iron-C for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels. The capsules are easy to take and do not cause any digestive discomfort. We appreciate that the product is free from unnecessary binders, fillers, and preservatives, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

One thing to keep in mind is that some users have reported issues with the packaging, with several capsules being busted upon opening the sealed bottle. Additionally, some users have found the capsules to be difficult to swallow. However, these issues seem to be relatively rare and do not detract from the overall effectiveness of the product.

Overall, we would highly recommend Pure Encapsulations Iron-C to anyone looking for a high-quality iron supplement that supports optimal muscle function and energy levels.

7. MegaFood Blood Builder Minis - Iron Supplement

We highly recommend purchasing the MegaFood Blood Builder Minis iron supplement because it's a safe and effective way to increase iron levels without causing side effects.

Pros

• The supplement is gentle on the stomach and doesn't cause constipation.
• It delivers 26 mg of iron, along with folic acid and B12 for healthy red blood cell production.
• It's safe for menstruating and pregnant women, teenage girls, vegans, and vegetarians.

Cons

• The tablets are a bit large and may be difficult for some people to swallow.
• The supplement is a bit pricey compared to other iron supplements on the market.
• Some users may not notice a significant increase in their iron levels.

We've personally used the MegaFood Blood Builder Minis iron supplement and have found it to be an effective way to boost our energy levels without any negative side effects. The supplement is made with farm-fresh whole foods and is crafted using MegaFood's Slo-Food Process, which ensures that the nutrients are delivered in their most natural form.

In addition to being non-GMO and free of gluten, dairy, and soy, the supplement is also certified B Corp and kosher. We appreciate that MegaFood is committed to natural and regenerative agriculture and works with trusted farm partners to source their ingredients.

Overall, if you're looking for a safe and effective way to increase your iron levels, we highly recommend giving the MegaFood Blood Builder Minis iron supplement a try.

8. NOW Supplements Iron

If you're looking for an iron supplement that's gentle on your stomach and easy to absorb, NOW Supplements Iron is a great choice.

Pros

• Clinically demonstrated superior absorption
• Non-constipating
• Vegan / Vegetarian

Cons

• May cause stomach cramps
• May not be strong enough for severe anemia
• May cause nausea in some individuals

We have been using this iron supplement for a few months now, and we have noticed an increase in our energy levels. We also appreciate that it's vegan and non-GMO. The Ferrochel Iron Bisglycinate is gentle on our stomachs, and we have not experienced any constipation.

One downside we have noticed is that it can cause stomach cramps in some individuals. Additionally, it may not be strong enough for those with severe anemia. Finally, some users have reported experiencing nausea after taking this supplement.

Overall, we recommend NOW Supplements Iron for those looking for a gentle and effective iron supplement. It's also a great choice for vegans and vegetarians.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best iron supplement, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you are getting a product that meets your needs. Here are some features to look for when selecting an iron supplement:

Form of Iron

Iron supplements come in different forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferric citrate. Each form of iron has a different absorption rate, so it's essential to choose a supplement that contains a form of iron that your body can easily absorb.

Dosage

The dosage of iron supplements can vary widely, from 18 mg to 65 mg per tablet. It's important to choose a supplement that provides the right amount of iron for your needs. Taking too much iron can be harmful, so it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage on the label.

Additional Nutrients

Some iron supplements include additional nutrients, such as vitamin C, which can help your body absorb iron more efficiently. It's worth considering a supplement that includes additional nutrients that can enhance the effectiveness of the iron.

Side Effects

Iron supplements can cause side effects such as constipation, nausea, and stomach upset. It's essential to choose a supplement that has minimal side effects and is well-tolerated by your body.

Price

Iron supplements can vary in price, with some being more expensive than others. It's important to choose a supplement that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose an iron supplement that provides the right amount of iron and is well-tolerated by your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can we ensure the best absorption of iron supplements?

To ensure the best absorption of iron supplements, it is recommended to take them with vitamin C-rich foods or drinks such as orange juice. Avoid taking iron supplements with dairy products or calcium supplements as they can interfere with iron absorption.

What is the most effective form of iron supplement?

The most effective form of iron supplement is ferrous sulfate, which is also the most commonly prescribed by doctors. It is easily absorbed by the body and has a high concentration of elemental iron.

What are the best iron supplements for men?

Men can benefit from any iron supplement, but it is recommended to take one that contains a lower dose of iron compared to women's supplements. Men can also benefit from taking iron supplements that contain vitamin C to aid in absorption.

What is the best iron supplement for teenage girls?

Teenage girls require a higher amount of iron compared to adult women due to their growing bodies. The best iron supplements for teenage girls are those that contain a higher dose of iron and are specifically formulated for their age group.

What are the best iron supplements for runners?

Runners require a higher amount of iron due to the strain running puts on the body. The best iron supplements for runners are those that contain a higher dose of iron and are easily absorbed by the body.

What are the best iron supplements for the elderly?

The elderly may have difficulty absorbing iron due to age-related changes in the digestive system. The best iron supplements for the elderly are those that contain a lower dose of iron and are easily absorbed by the body. It is recommended to consult with a doctor before taking any iron supplement.