Excess iron can be toxic to the body and cause serious health problems.
Here are the top 10 iron supplements, according to the experts.
Working with your doctor can help you assess whether an iron supplement is appropriate for you.
(United States Pharmacopeia certification means the product meets strict potency, quality, and purity standards.)
Best for Kids
I love the 9 mg dose per tablet.
Iron Strong also containsvitamin Cfor optimal absorption, plus its sugar-free and vegan.
Third-party testing is also a plus.
(TheNational Sanitation Foundationoffers certification for dietary supplements that meet strict quality and safety standards.)
Its a small, easily chewable, tasty, one-a-day iron capsule flavored with monk fruit and mannitol.
Hiya also usesthird-party testing labsto test for contaminants from heavy metals.
Its also Non-GMO Project verified, gluten-free, and NSF certified.
TheB Corp designationmeans Vitamin Code meets strict guidelines and commitments for its positive social and environmental impact.
Thorne is a reputable company that does third-party testing and is NSF certified, she says.
Thornes product is also a good choice for pregnancy because of its simple formula.
A lot of other supplements will include other vitamins or herbs, Dose explains.
Dose does recommend taking your iron supplement with food containing vitamin C to support absorption.
This Designs for Health product is vegan, non-GMO, and free from gluten, dairy, and soy.
Natures Bounty is also non-GMO, gluten-free, and CGMP-compliant, ensuring quality and safety.
[13]
Best Food-Based
Nabielski recommends FullWell Iron Bump for a gentle, food-based iron supplement.
It also contains food-based vitamin C (from acerola cherry) to improve absorption.
We reviewed dozens of iron supplements for bioavailability, potential side effects, ingredient transparency, and effectiveness.
[14]
What Are the Benefits of Iron Supplements?
Iron supplements benefit those with an iron deficiency or low iron levels, significantly improving symptoms.
[15]
What Are the Downsides to Taking an Iron Supplement?
The time of day that you take an iron supplement matters less than how often you take it.
As with any supplement, consistency is essential.
[16]
She also recommends includingvitamin Cin your meal, especially if the supplement doesnt contain any.
Some examples include citrus fruits, broccoli, kiwi, bell peppers, and strawberries.
To serve her diverse patients, she demonstrates cultural sensitivity and knowledge of customary food practices.
Franco is also a corporate wellness consultant who conducts wellness counseling and seminars for organizations of every size.
She created the sports nutrition rotation for the New York Distance Dietetic Internship program.
She is the chair of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine’sRegistered Dietitian-NutritionistMember Interest Group.
Caitlins special interests include women’s health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health.
Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women’s health and integrative and functional nutrition.
Caitlin was born and raised in northern California, where she resides with her family.
