While it’s possible to get all your nutrient iron needs from your diet alone, this isn’t the case for most people. Iron deficiencies are so common that an estimated 80% of the world’s people lack the iron they require. Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin and anemia when your body doesn’t have enough iron to produce the hemoglobin it needs.
But most iron deficiencies can be remedied by an over-the-counter iron supplement. If you’ve been advised by a health care professional to supplement with iron, the best is Pure Encapsulations Iron-C, a tiny pill that packs a potent dose.
Not everyone has access to major dietary sources of iron suchas red meat, or chooses to consume animal products.
There are five types of iron found in iron supplements. Here’s what you need to know about them.
The price depends on what type of iron it contains. Ferrous iron supplements start at 3 cents a tablet. Chelated iron supplements cost a little more, at 9-16 cents a tablet. Heme iron supplements can cost as much as 94 cents a tablet.
A. It’s recommended to get diagnosed by a doctor for iron deficiency through blood testing. Taking too much iron could lead to toxicity, so you want to get the correct dose as determined by a medical professional.
A. Milk, antacids and calcium all interfere with the absorption of iron supplements. Avoid these substances for two hours before or after taking your iron supplement. The tannins in tea and coffee also reduce absorption, so avoid these beverages shortly before or after taking an iron supplement. Check with your doctor to see if you’re on any medications that may interact with iron.
What you need to know: This provides a highly utilizable form of iron to support optimal muscle function.
What you’ll love: It doesn’t cause the stomach upset often associated with iron supplements. Each capsule contains 15 milligrams of iron and 175 mg of vitamin C.
What you should consider: The bottle contains only 60 capsules.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Lifeable Iron Gummies with Vitamin C
What you need to know: This is a budget-friendly alternative to pricier iron supplements.
What you’ll love: Each tablet contains 20 mg of iron, which effectively raises iron levels in the body. The tablets are vegetarian-friendly.
What you should consider: They need to be swallowed quickly to avoid their bad taste.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Ferretts Tablets Iron Supplement
What you need to know: This is a highly absorbable form of iron that's gentle on the stomach.
What you’ll love: It contains 106 mg of iron and 325 mg of ferrous fumarate.
What you should consider: It may cause unpleasant belching.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Ana Sanchez writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.