10 Best Iron Supplements Of 2024 To Help With An Iron Deficiency
Improve your hemoglobin levels to boost energy and stay active throughout the day.
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 10 yearsRavi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.
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The importance of iron in your body is more than you can imagine (1). Especially for human growth and development, iron is a must. And given that iron is an essential component of hemoglobin and carrying oxygen present in the red blood cells throughout the human body is its crucial function, it requires the best iron supplements for better performance. And these iron supplements should replenish the iron levels of the body. Many iron deficiencies are treated via these supplements too. Therefore, knowing their significance, we have compiled a list of the best ones in this article for you. This list will also come in handy while choosing suitable iron supplements for yourself. So without further ado, let us scroll down and check it out.
Top 10 Iron Supplements Of 2024
1. Best Farm Fresh Ingredients:MegaFood Blood Builder
Megafood Blood Builder is clinically proven to increase iron levels and reduce fatigue without causing any side effects. It is formulated with nourishing ingredients like beets and organic oranges, along with folic acid and vitamins C and B12. It provides 26 mg of iron per serving. The best part about this supplement is that it is gentle enough to be taken on an empty stomach. The product claims to be safe for menstruating women, pregnant women, vegans, vegetarians, and athletes. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video for some practical insights on the product.
- Doesn’t cause constipation or nausea
- Maintains healthy red blood cell production
- Improves your energy levels
- Includes nutritious ingredients
- Made with farm-fresh whole foods
- Contains essential minerals and vitamins
- Maintains healthy blood pressure levels
None
StyleCraze Says2. Best For Pregnant Women:Nature Made Iron
This liquid iron supplement is formulated to help maintain healthy iron levels in individuals lacking adequate iron. It contains premium-quality ingredients that are selected under strict manufacturing processes. The formula is free of artificial preservatives, synthetic dyes, and gluten. Try this pharmacist-recommended supplement, hailed by thousands of online reviewers, and observe the results for yourself.
- USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia) verified
- May help treat anemia
- Easy to swallow
- Does not cause constipation
- Reasonably priced
None
3. Best Vegan:Garden Of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron
This vegan-friendly product contains ingredients that are grown using probiotic cultivation to produce raw food nutrients. They are produced below 115º F so that the nutrients are preserved. This product is exclusively a whole-food-based supplement. It is made without the high heat, synthetic binders or fillers, artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, and additives. This supplement is a nutritious blend of 23 fruits and vegetables. It is the natural iron supplement that supports cardiovascular health, improves blood circulation, reduces eye risks, offers immune response, and maintains reproductive system. It provides metabolism support and doesn’t cause constipation.
- Certified vegan
- Gluten-free
- May help with anemia
- Contains vitamins C, B12, and folate
- Easily absorbed
None
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 6,969 reviews claiming its efficacy.
MegaFood Blood Builder Best Farm Fresh Ingredients | Nature Made Iron Best For Pregnant Women | Garden Of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron Best Vegan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2 x 2 x 2 inches | 2.06 x 2.06 x 3.58 inches | 6 x 5 x 4 inches |
| Weight | 8.61 Ounces | 2.47 Ounces | 5.6 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 31,825 | 6,969 |
| Price | $28.99 | $5.57 | $13.83 |
4. Best For RBC Production:Zahler Iron Complex
Zahler Iron Complex is a blood-building heme iron supplement that contains all the nutrients required for hemoglobin formation. It contains ferrochel, which is the most effective form of iron. Along with that, it also contains vitamin B12 and folic acid. With suggested use, this ferritin supplement will improve the production of red blood cells. Overall, it is a gentle and non-constipating iron supplement, formulated under direct observation in certified GMP facilities.
- Easily absorbed
- Easy on the stomach
- Uplifts your mood
- Keeps you active
- Improves the appearance of your nails
None
Quick Tip5. Great-Tasting:EZ Melts Iron Dissolvable Vitamins
If you are looking for a supplement that dissolves quickly, this is the product for you. It is not only fast-melting but also tastes fantastic. It is formulated with carbonyl iron and vitamin C. These ingredients are very safe yet effective. It helps in fatigue reduction and provides a healthy balance for individuals dealing with anemia. With its citrusy and zesty orange flavor, these iron supplements are easy to swallow. EZ Melts are the best iron supplements for women.
Pros
- Zero sugar
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Includes natural flavors and natural sweeteners
- Digests quickly
- Non-constipating formula
None
6. Best For Athletes:Feosol Ferrous Sulfate High Potency Iron
This pharmacist-approved formula is highly effective for those who want to improve their iron levels. The formula contains ferrous sulfate, which is among the most widely recommended minerals by doctors. Ferrous sulfate is one of the safest and time-tested forms of iron. Each serving contains 325 mg of ferrous sulfate, which is equivalent to 360% of the daily value, making it a high potency iron supplement. This high quality iron supplement formula also contains other ingredients like lactose, sorbitol, crospovidone, triacetin, magnesium stearate, carnauba wax, hypromellose, polydextrose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide that help in athletic performance. It is the best iron supplement for anemia prevention.
- Contains 120 capsules
- A trusted brand for 7 decades
- Improves your system’s ability to absorb iron
- Reasonably priced
Non-vegan
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 6,292 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
7. Best for Women:Enzymatic Therapy Ultimate Iron Supplement
Women lose a certain amount of iron each month during their menstrual cycle. In such cases, iron supplements can be of great help as they help support stamina and energy for the healthy production of red blood cells. One such product is the Enzymatic Therapy Ultimate Iron Supplement. It contains vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin B12, chlorophyllin, liquid liver fractions, and iron.
- Free of gluten, sugar, and wheat
- No artificial coloring or flavors
- Easily absorbable
- Offers energy boost
- Contains soy
- Contains heme iron (comes from animal protein)
8. Easily Digestible:New Chapter Iron Food Complex
This supplement is easily digestible as it is presented in the fermented form. It is a whole-food-based iron supplement, which can be easily absorbed by your body. It builds blood and improves your energy levels with the help of an iron and five other essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins E, C, B12, and folate, and zinc. This product is ideal for pregnancy health or menstrual health. It is a non-constipating formula, tested by third parties and made with organic vegetables and herbs.
- Can be taken even on an empty stomach
- Non-GMO
- 100% vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Free of artificial colors
None
9. Best Budget-Friendly:Nature’s Bounty Iron Supplements
Nature’s Bounty iron supplements support red blood cell production. It helps fight fatigue and improves your energy levels. Each capsule contains 325 mg of ferrous sulfate. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience with this supplement to learn about its health benefits.
- No artificial flavors or sweeteners
- Does not contain soy, milk, gluten or sugar
- Availability issues
10. Best Dairy-Free Formula:Pure Iron-C Encapsulations
Pure Iron-C Encapsulation contains a highly bioavailable form of iron. It provides muscle support, improves cognitive function, and helps transport oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. Along with iron, it also contains vitamin C, which helps enhance intestinal absorption and supports red blood cell function for improved oxygen levels. The formula also contains other ingredients like hypoallergenic plant fiber and ascorbyl palmitate. It is the best iron supplement for women.
- Free of dairy and other animal products
- Easily absorbed
- Light on the stomach
- Improves your energy levels
None
When you find out that you have low iron in your body and your doctor asks you to start using iron supplements, it could be challenging to opt for the right iron supplement as there are a plethora of options in the market. To help you out, here are a few tips on choosing the best iron supplements for you.
How To Choose The Best Iron Supplements
Supplement Type
Iron supplements are available in different forms, liquid, capsule, or tablets. Some people might have a hard time swallowing non-chewable pills, whereas some worry that liquid supplements can stay in their teeth. You can consult your doctor for the exact type of dosage and recommendation in terms of your iron supplement.
Dosage
Excessive doses of iron can be too toxic for your liver health, and give rise to serious problems. The ideal way to understand the optimal dosage of an iron supplement is to have proper blood tests done by a doctor. You can determine the iron supplement as per the dosage instructions from your physician. Generally, it is recommended that adult females take 18 MG of iron supplement per day, whereas for adult males it is 8MG. For pregnant women the recommended amount of daily iron supplement is 27MG. However, consult your doctor before committing on a fixed dosage.
Iron Level
Supplements are commonly sold under the names ferrous fumarate, ferrous sulfate, and ferrous gluconate. This can confuse you especially due to the basis of the amount of iron displayed on the label. All the three forms of iron absorption can be consumed by the body well, but there is a difference in the elemental iron levels. For instance, ferrous fumarate contains the highest level of elemental iron, but it can be too much of a dosage for some.
Explore these iron supplements to improve your iron levels and rebuild energy in your system. But before you do so, please check with your health care provider. They will be able to recommend the right supplement for you.
Let us now understand who is at risk of iron deficiency.
Am I At Risk Of Iron Deficiency?
Iron deficiency is more prevalent among women. If you belong to any of the following groups, you may be at risk of iron deficiency. It is also common among the following groups of people.
- Women who menstruate
- Pregnant women
- People with gastrointestinal disease and inflammatory bowel disease
- People who have undergone gastric bypass operations
- People whose diet does not include enough iron-rich foods
- People with peptic ulcer disease
Though iron deficiency can be treated by iron supplements, there are a few concerns. They may have certain potential side effects.
Note: Before consuming these supplements, it is recommended that you consult your doctor and test your digestive function iron levels.
Side Effects Of Iron Supplements
The most common side effects associated with iron supplements are (2):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dark stools
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
However, constipation and dark stools are normal. They are signs that the treatment is working. But if you experience stomach pain, consult a healthcare specialist immediately.
Infographic: What To Keep In Mind While Consuming Iron Supplements
Iron supplements help produce hemoglobin and ensure an adequate supply of oxygen to the tissues and organs. As iron levels increase, fatigue and weakness diminish, giving way to increased energy and vitality. The infographic below lists some essential tips to help you get the best from these supplements. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Supplements boost your immune system, whether it is iron or vitamin. And iron supplements play a crucial role as iron is an important component of hemoglobin and aids in carrying oxygen via RBC all over the body. The lack of iron may cause fatigue and sometimes may even lead to anemia. So it would be best to invest in iron supplements that boost your energy levels, maintain RBC count, and invigorate hemoglobin. The MegaFood Blood Builder is made from real whole foods and is designed to support healthy iron levels and red blood cell production, while the Garden Of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron provides a raw, whole-food-based iron supplement that is derived from plant sources. You can use the Pure Iron-C Encapsulations, as they provide a dairy-free iron supplement that is gentle on the stomach. However, if iron deficiency is persistent, consult a doctor for better alternatives. Remember to read the product reviews before purchasing any supplement to make the best choice for your health.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar, the author, has a diploma in health and wellness. She understands that iron is an essential component for the human body, so she went on a hunt for the best iron supplements for her readers. With thorough research and analysis, she has curated a list of the most effective supplements. She has also read many product details to ensure that the listed items are safe for use. These iron supplements in the list are perfect for replenishing the iron levels in your body.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much iron do I need?
The amount of iron you require each day depends on your age, sex, and health condition. Although the average daily recommendations are (3):
Adult women: 18 mg
Adult men: 8 mg
Teen girls: 15 mg
Teen Boys: 11 mg
Pregnant women: 27 mg
How much iron is too much?
It depends on your body type, gender, and age. However, it is recommended not to take more than 45 mg of iron per day (3).
Why do women need more iron during pregnancy?
When you are expecting, your body uses extra iron to produce blood for the baby. Therefore, women need more iron during pregnancy to compensate for this additional use.
Which foods are rich in iron?
Iron is naturally present in most foods in very small amounts. But some foods like whole-wheat cereals, beetroot, and pulses are rich in iron.
Is it okay to take an iron supplement every day?
Yes, you can take iron supplements daily but at most 17mg.
Can we take iron supplements during the menstrual period?
Yes, women are more prone to have low iron levels during their menstrual cycle. Low iron levels can cause fatigue, dizziness, anemia, and headaches.
How long does it take for iron supplements to work?
It takes up to 2-4 weeks for iron supplements to work.
Will iron supplements help dark circles?
If the dark circles are caused by an iron deficiency, taking iron supplements will help reduce their appearance.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Iron. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/ - Taking Iron Supplements. Medline Plus. US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007478.htm - Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK222309/
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