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Iron supplements are vital for runners, providing the necessary nutritive support to—among other things—sustain energy levels, boost endurance, and accelerate recovery. But with a plethora of iron supplement brands available, it’s challenging to discern which ones genuinely deliver health benefits. As active enthusiasts and health aficionados, we’ve tested myriad iron supplements to ascertain the best options for runners.
The finest iron supplement for runners should offer highly absorbable and easily digestible iron. It should not cause stomach upset or constipation—a common issue with some iron supplements. Crucially, it must contain the right dosage, as too much iron can be toxic, but too little can lead to iron deficiency, or anemia.
When purchasing an iron supplement for runners, pay close attention to its composition. Ideally, it should contain iron in the form of ferrous bisglycinate or ferrous fumarate, which the body readily absorbs. It’s also beneficial when paired with vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the most effective iron supplement specifically tailored for runners. Our findings, drawn from extensive research and personal testing, shall assist you in selecting a supplement that optimally supports your running endeavors and overall health. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive and accurate information to keep you at the top of your game.
Best Iron Supplement for Runners
Selecting the optimal iron supplement is critical for runners to maintain peak performance and overall wellbeing. The supplement should be swiftly absorbed, gentle on the stomach, and contain an appropriate amount of iron. Given the multitude of choices on the market, deciding the best one for your health needs can be a daunting task. In this guide, we have meticulously compiled a list of our tested and approved iron supplements for runners, assuring you informed decisions for your health and fitness journey.
Vitron-C Iron Supplement, Once Daily, High Potency Iron Plus Vitamin C, Supports Red Blood Cell Production, Dye Free Tablets, 60 Count
If you’re looking for a high potency iron supplement that also contains vitamin C, the Vitron-C Iron Supplement might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The high potency formula provides 185mg of iron, which is more than the amount found in most other iron supplements.
- The addition of vitamin C helps with iron absorption, which is important for getting the most out of your supplement.
- The tablets are dye-free, which is a nice feature for those who are sensitive to certain dyes.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tablets are quite large and difficult to swallow.
- The high potency formula may cause side effects such as constipation or stomach upset in some individuals.
- The supplement may not be suitable for those who are allergic to any of the ingredients.
We’ve been using the Vitron-C Iron Supplement for a few weeks now and have noticed an increase in energy levels. The high potency formula provides a lot of iron, which is important for maintaining healthy red blood cells. We also appreciate the addition of vitamin C, which helps with iron absorption and provides additional health benefits.
One downside to the supplement is that the tablets are quite large and may be difficult to swallow for some individuals. Additionally, the high potency formula may cause side effects such as constipation or stomach upset in some individuals. It’s important to start with a lower dose and gradually increase to avoid these side effects.
Overall, we would recommend the Vitron-C Iron Supplement to anyone looking for a high potency iron supplement that also contains vitamin C. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
MegaFood Blood Builder – Iron Supplement Clinically Shown to Increase Iron Levels without Side Effects – Iron Supplement for Women with Vitamin C, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid – Vegan – 60 Tabs
If you’re looking for a vegan iron supplement that won’t cause side effects, MegaFood Blood Builder is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Clinically shown to increase iron levels without side effects
- Includes vitamin C and beet root for vital nutrients
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions
- Some users may experience a strong smell or taste
- May take longer to see results compared to other iron supplements
We’ve been using MegaFood Blood Builder for a few weeks now and have noticed an improvement in our energy levels. Unlike other iron supplements we’ve tried, this one doesn’t cause any stomach discomfort or constipation.
One thing we really appreciate about this supplement is that it includes vitamin C and beet root, which help support healthy red blood cell production. It’s also great to know that it’s suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
However, it’s worth noting that this supplement may not be suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions, as it contains some ingredients that may not be allowed in certain diets. Additionally, some users may experience a strong smell or taste, which can be off-putting for some.
Overall, we would recommend MegaFood Blood Builder to anyone looking for a vegan iron supplement that won’t cause side effects. It may take longer to see results compared to other iron supplements, but the benefits are worth it in the long run.
Active Iron High Potency Iron Supplement, 2X Better Absorption & Non-Constipating, Helps Support Energy, Iron Pills for Women & Men, 25mg (60 Capsules)
If you’re looking for an iron supplement that won’t leave you feeling constipated, Active Iron High Potency Iron Supplement is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The unique patented formula contains higher levels of iron, which means you need fewer pills, making it a more convenient option than other iron supplements.
- Active Iron is a non-constipating formula that contains a unique blend of Taurine, Magnesium, Vitamin C, and Beet Root, which helps to support the digestive system and promote normal bowel function.
- The small, easy-to-swallow capsules are vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Cons
- Some users may find the price point to be higher than other iron supplements on the market.
- While the formula is non-constipating, it may still cause digestive discomfort in some users.
- The recommended dosage is one capsule per day, which may not be enough for individuals with severe iron deficiencies.
We’ve found that Active Iron High Potency Iron Supplement is a great option for individuals who are looking for an iron supplement that won’t cause constipation. The unique blend of ingredients helps to support digestive health and promote normal bowel function, making it a more comfortable option than other iron supplements we’ve tried.
The small, easy-to-swallow capsules are also a big plus, as they’re much easier to take than some of the larger iron supplement pills we’ve encountered in the past. We appreciate that the formula is vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free, making it a more inclusive option for individuals with dietary restrictions.
Overall, we would recommend Active Iron High Potency Iron Supplement to anyone who is looking for a high-quality iron supplement that won’t cause constipation. While it may be a bit more expensive than other options on the market, the convenience and comfort it provides make it well worth the investment.
Vegan Iron Gummies Supplement – with Vitamin C, A, B-Complex, Folate, Zinc for Adults & Kids – Blood Builder & Energy Support for Iron Deficiency, Anemia, No After Taste – Peach Flavor (90 Ct)
If you’re looking for a vegan iron supplement that is both effective and delicious, the Vegan Iron Gummies Supplement by Garden of Life might be just what you need.
Pros
- The combination of vitamin C and iron in these gummies enhances iron absorption, making them more effective than other iron supplements.
- The B12 in these gummies is methylated, which means it’s highly absorbable and suitable for vegans.
- These gummies are free from the top 8 allergens and artificial and unnecessary fillers, making them a safe choice for many people.
Cons
- Some people might find the texture of these gummies to be too sticky or chewy.
- While these gummies are flavored with natural peach flavor, some people might not enjoy the taste.
- These gummies contain sugar, although it’s only 2 grams per serving.
We’ve been using the Vegan Iron Gummies Supplement for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels. We appreciate that these gummies are made with high-quality, organic ingredients and that they’re certified vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
One thing we really like about these gummies is that they’re formulated with vitamin C, which helps to increase iron absorption. We’ve found that we don’t experience any stomach upset or constipation, which are common side effects of other iron supplements.
Another benefit of these gummies is that they’re free from the top 8 allergens and artificial and unnecessary fillers. This makes them a safe choice for people with food allergies or sensitivities.
While we appreciate the natural peach flavor of these gummies, we must admit that the texture can be a bit sticky or chewy for some people. Additionally, the sugar content might be a concern for some individuals.
Overall, we believe that the Vegan Iron Gummies Supplement is a great choice for anyone looking for a vegan iron supplement that is both effective and delicious.
Active Iron for Women, Non-Constipating, 30 Active Iron High Potency Capsules with 30 Multivitamin Tablets, Helps Strengthen Your Immune System
If you’re looking for an iron supplement that won’t cause constipation, Active Iron for Women is a great option.
Pros
- The capsules are small and easy to swallow.
- The supplement is designed to release iron in the right place in the gut for optimal absorption.
- The product contains folic acid and vitamin B12 to help maintain normal red blood cell production.
Cons
- Some users may find the price point to be higher than other iron supplements on the market.
- The supplement may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
- The product may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications.
We’ve found that Active Iron for Women is a great option for women looking to boost their iron levels without experiencing constipation. The small, easy-to-swallow capsules make it easy to incorporate the supplement into your daily routine. Additionally, the supplement’s design to release iron in the right place in the gut for optimal absorption is a great feature.
The supplement’s containment of folic acid and vitamin B12 is also a plus, as these nutrients are important for maintaining normal red blood cell production. However, it’s important to note that the product may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, as well as those with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications.
Overall, if you’re looking for an iron supplement that won’t cause constipation and is specifically designed for women, Active Iron for Women is a great option to consider.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best iron supplement for runners, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Form of Iron
Iron supplements come in different forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. Each form has different absorption rates and may affect the body differently. It’s important to choose a form of iron that is easily absorbed and tolerated by the body.
Dosage
The recommended daily intake of iron varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. It’s important to choose a supplement that provides the appropriate dosage for your needs. Too much iron can be harmful, while too little may not provide the desired benefits.
Other Nutrients
Iron supplements may also contain other nutrients, such as vitamin C, which can enhance iron absorption, or vitamin B12, which can help prevent anemia. It’s important to choose a supplement that contains the right balance of nutrients for your needs.
Side Effects
Iron supplements can cause side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and stomach upset. It’s important to choose a supplement that is well-tolerated by the body and does not cause severe side effects.
Price
Iron supplements can vary in price, depending on the brand, form, and dosage. It’s important to choose a supplement that fits within your budget, while still providing the necessary nutrients for your needs.
By considering these factors, runners can choose the best iron supplement to support their health and performance.
