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Iron supplements are essential for individuals who do not get enough iron from their diet, particularly those with iron-deficiency anemia. However, some people find it quite a challenge to tolerate iron supplements due to side effects such as constipation, nausea, and gastric discomfort. The type of iron supplement you consume plays a significant role in how well your body can absorb it and how much discomfort it may cause.
The best-tolerated iron supplement should have a high bioavailability, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body. It should also have a low incidence of adverse effects. Using the wrong kind of supplement may lead to poor absorption and unnecessary discomfort.
When selecting an iron supplement, it’s crucial to look at the formulation. The supplement should contain a well-absorbed form of iron, such as ferrous bisglycinate, and may include vitamin C or other enhancers to aid absorption. It’s equally important to check that the supplement is free from common allergens and artificial additives.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best-tolerated iron supplement. We have conducted extensive research and testing on various iron supplements to identify the ones that provide optimal absorption and minimum discomfort. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to select an iron supplement that suits your body’s needs and is well-tolerated.
Best Tolerated Iron Supplement
Choosing the right iron supplement is crucial for not only addressing your body’s iron needs, but also for reducing any discomfort or side effects. The supplement should be easily absorbed, sourced from high-quality ingredients, and free from common allergens and artificial additives. With countless choices available on the market, it can be challenging to pick the best-tolerated iron supplement for your needs. In this article, we’ve consolidated a list of top picks based on our exhaustive research and testing, to help you make an informed decision.
Thorne Iron Bisglycinate – 25 mg Iron Supplement for Enhanced Absorption Without Gastrointestinal Side Effects – NSF Certified for Sport – Gluten-Free – 60 Capsules
If you’re looking for a high-quality iron supplement that is safe for athletes and free from common allergens, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The bisglycinate form of iron is highly absorbable, making it an effective supplement for those with iron deficiencies.
- This supplement is NSF Certified for Sport, which means it has been tested for athletic banned substances and is safe for athletes to consume.
- Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is free from many common allergens, including gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and wheat.
Cons
- This supplement may not be suitable for individuals with iron overload conditions.
- Some users may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort when taking this supplement on an empty stomach.
- This supplement may be more expensive than other iron supplements on the market.
Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality iron supplement that is safe for athletes and free from common allergens. The bisglycinate form of iron is highly absorbable, making it an effective supplement for those with iron deficiencies. Additionally, this supplement is NSF Certified for Sport, which means it has been tested for athletic banned substances and is safe for athletes to consume. Finally, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is free from many common allergens, including gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and wheat, making it a great choice for those with food allergies.
If you’re looking for an iron supplement that is safe, effective, and free from common allergens, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is definitely worth considering.
Nature’s Bounty Iron 65mg, 325 mg Ferrous Sulfate, Cellular Energy Support, Promotes Normal Red Blood Cell Production, 100 Tablets
If you’re looking for an iron supplement to boost your energy levels, Nature’s Bounty Iron with Vitamin C is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Provides 65 mg of iron per tablet for energy support
- Includes 325 mg of ferrous sulfate and 250 mg of thiamine (vitamin B1) for normal red blood cell production
- Contains 100 mg of vitamin C per tablet for antioxidant support
Cons
- Some users may experience constipation or stomach upset
- The tablets are quite large and may be difficult to swallow for some people
- The product may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications
We’ve been using Nature’s Bounty Iron with Vitamin C for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels. The tablets are easy to take, and we appreciate that they’re free of artificial flavors, sweeteners, and sugar.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tablets are quite large, so they may be difficult to swallow for some people. Additionally, some users may experience constipation or stomach upset after taking the supplement.
Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Bounty Iron with Vitamin C to anyone looking for an iron supplement to boost their energy levels. However, as with any supplement, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting to take it.
Flora – Ferritin+ Plant-Based Iron, Helps Maintain Healthy Iron Levels, Non-Constipating, Highly Absorbable, Supports Energy & Mental Clarity, Vegan Iron Supplement, 30 Delayed Release Vegan Capsules
If you’re looking for a vegan iron supplement that won’t cause constipation, Flora’s Ferritin+ supplement might be worth considering.
Pros
- The delayed release capsules ensure that the supplement is absorbed slowly, which can help prevent stomach upset and constipation.
- Ferritin+ contains a unique blend of plant-based iron sources, including ferrous bisglycinate, which is highly absorbable.
- This supplement is formulated with vitamin C to support iron absorption and to promote healthy connective tissue.
Cons
- The recommended dosage is three capsules per day, which may be inconvenient for some people.
- Some users have reported that the capsules are difficult to swallow.
- While this supplement is non-constipating, it may still cause digestive discomfort in some people.
We’ve been using Flora’s Ferritin+ supplement for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed an increase in our energy levels and mental clarity. The delayed release capsules have been a game-changer for us, as we’ve experienced less digestive discomfort than we have with other iron supplements.
One thing to keep in mind is that the recommended dosage is three capsules per day, which may be a bit much for some people. We found that taking two capsules in the morning and one in the evening worked well for us.
Overall, we would recommend Flora’s Ferritin+ supplement to anyone looking for a vegan iron supplement that is highly absorbable and non-constipating. Just be aware that the capsules may be difficult to swallow for some people, and the recommended dosage may be too much for others.
Iron Ferrous Sulfate | 325mg | 180 Count | Vegetarian, Non-GMO & Gluten Free Dietary Supplement | by Horbaach
If you’re looking for a reliable iron supplement, we highly recommend the Iron Ferrous Sulfate by Horbaach.
Pros
- Each tablet contains 325mg of elemental iron, which is the most potent form of iron for supplementation.
- The tablets are vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
- The product is manufactured in the USA, adhering to strict cGMP guidelines, ensuring high quality and purity.
Cons
- The tablets are relatively large, which may be difficult for some people to swallow.
- The product may cause constipation in some individuals.
- The product may not be suitable for those with iron overload conditions.
We’ve found that the Iron Ferrous Sulfate by Horbaach is an effective way to boost our iron levels. The tablets are easy to take, and we appreciate that they’re vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO. While the tablets are relatively large, we haven’t had any issues swallowing them. However, we have experienced constipation when taking this supplement, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to avoid this side effect.
Overall, we believe that the Iron Ferrous Sulfate by Horbaach is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their iron levels. It’s effective, high-quality, and suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
NOW Supplements, Iron 36 mg, Double Strength, Non-Constipating*, Essential Mineral, 90 Veg Capsules
If you’re looking for a reliable iron supplement, NOW Supplements, Iron 36 mg, Double Strength, Non-Constipating*, Essential Mineral, 90 Veg Capsules is a great choice.
Pros
- The capsules are vegetarian and free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
- Iron bisglycinate is a highly absorbable form of iron that is less likely to cause constipation than other forms of iron.
- The product is gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.
Cons
- Some users may experience an upset stomach or constipation despite the product’s non-constipating claim.
- The recommended dosage is three capsules per day, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The product may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications.
We’ve used NOW Supplements, Iron 36 mg, Double Strength, Non-Constipating*, Essential Mineral, 90 Veg Capsules for a few weeks and have noticed an improvement in our energy levels. The capsules are easy to swallow and don’t leave any aftertaste.
One of the things we like about this product is that it contains iron bisglycinate, which is a highly absorbable form of iron. This means that our bodies are able to absorb the iron more efficiently, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells.
Another thing we appreciate about this product is that it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners. This makes it a great choice for individuals who are looking for a more natural supplement.
However, we did experience some constipation after taking this supplement, despite the product’s non-constipating claim. Additionally, the recommended dosage of three capsules per day may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, we would recommend NOW Supplements, Iron 36 mg, Double Strength, Non-Constipating*, Essential Mineral, 90 Veg Capsules to individuals who are looking for a reliable iron supplement. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best tolerated iron supplement, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various products and have compiled a list of important features to look for.
Form of Iron
Iron supplements come in different forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. Ferrous sulfate is the most common and affordable form, but it can cause stomach upset and constipation. Ferrous fumarate and ferrous gluconate are better tolerated and less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Dosage
The recommended daily allowance of iron varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. It is important to choose a supplement that provides the appropriate dosage for your needs. Taking too much iron can be harmful, so it is important to follow the recommended dosage.
Absorption
Iron supplements are better absorbed on an empty stomach, but they can cause stomach upset and other side effects. Taking the supplement with food can help reduce these side effects, but it may also reduce absorption. Some supplements contain vitamin C, which can help improve iron absorption.
Other Ingredients
Iron supplements may contain other ingredients, such as fillers, binders, and preservatives. Some of these ingredients may cause allergic reactions or other side effects. It is important to read the label carefully and choose a supplement that contains minimal additional ingredients.
Price
Iron supplements vary in price, depending on the form, dosage, and other factors. It is important to choose a supplement that fits your budget, but it is also important to consider the quality and effectiveness of the product.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best tolerated iron supplement for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top iron supplements recommended for women?
There are several iron supplements that are recommended for women. Some of the most popular ones include ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. These supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.
Which iron supplements are most effective for men?
Iron supplements that are most effective for men include ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. These supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.
What are the best iron supplements for anemia?
Iron supplements that are best for anemia include ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. These supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and form of iron supplement for anemia.
What type of iron supplement has the least side effects?
Iron supplements that have the least side effects include ferrous bisglycinate and iron glycinate. These supplements are less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, constipation, and stomach upset.
Which iron supplements are most suitable for children?
Iron supplements that are most suitable for children include liquid iron supplements and chewable iron supplements. These supplements are easier for children to take and are less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Are there any iron supplements specifically formulated for teenagers?
Yes, there are iron supplements specifically formulated for teenagers. These supplements are designed to meet the higher iron needs of teenagers and are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.
