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10 Best Iron Supplements [Registered Dietitian-Reviewed]

Q: Top 5 Iron Supplement

Q: How to Choose Iron Supplements - Buying Guide

・Check the Dosage and Strength of the Medication ・Choose the Category of Oral Iron That Best Suits Your Circumstance ・Choose a Form That Fits Your Lifestyle and Preferences >> Click here for details >> View Full Ranking

Choosing the right iron supplement is crucial for addressing various needs, such as managing anemia, supporting pregnancy, or providing adequate iron for infants. With a multitude of options available, including liquids, pills, and chewables, selecting the best supplement can be overwhelming. Key considerations include the form of the supplement, such as liquid iron for infants and those with swallowing difficulties, or slow-release pills like Slow Fe for adults who require a steady absorption rate. Additionally, specific products like Vitron-C offer the added benefit of vitamin C to enhance iron absorption, making them an excellent choice for individuals with higher iron needs.

In this buying guide, with insight from Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Kathy Shattler, we provide comprehensive guidance on what to look for when choosing iron supplements, ensuring you find the right fit for your specific health requirements. We also present a ranking of the best iron supplements available from sites like Amazon and Walmart, highlighting options such as natural supplements, those with a high dosage like 65mg pills, and formulations ideal for pregnant women. Whether you need an iron supplement for anemia management, pregnancy support, or infant nutrition, this guide will help you make an informed decision for optimal health benefits.

Last updated 08/20/2024

Quick List - Top Iron Supplement

Nature's Bounty

Nature's Bounty ｜ Iron

An Effective Solution to Iron Supplementation

Thorne

Iron Bisglycinate

Gentle and Effective Iron Supplement

Vitron-C

Iron Plus Vitamin C

Boost Your Iron Absorption with Vitron-C

Haleon

Slow Fe ｜ Slow Release Iron Supplement

A Reliable Solution for Steady Iron Absorption

21st Century

Slow Release Iron

Consistent and Comfortable Iron Intake

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist: Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN

A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for over 25 years, Kathy has mastered numerous medical specialties and teaching methods: health promotion, counseling, academic teaching, endocrinology, psychiatry/mental health, supplements, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, aging, and alternative medicine. Experiences include: -Managing her own telehealth/nutrition consulting business -Directing a continuing education program for RDs and nurses -Consulting for long-term care regulatory affairs -Working with State and local health departments -Coordinating diabetes education programs Her experiences led her to reach people with life-changing information as a medical editor and writer. For over five years, Kathy has acquired increasingly complex roles. Passionate about the root causes of disease, she obtained her certification in Integrative Medicine and Functional Nutrition from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics three years ago. This series continues to influence her approach to writing.

Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN's Profile

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Table of Contents

What Are Iron Supplements?
How to Choose Iron Supplements - Buying Guide
1
Check the Dosage and Strength of the Medication
2
Choose the Category of Oral Iron That Best Suits Your Circumstance
3
Choose a Form That Fits Your Lifestyle and Preferences
10 Best Iron Supplement Ranking
No. 1
Nature's Bounty | Nature's Bounty｜Iron
No. 2
Thorne | Iron Bisglycinate
No. 3
Vitron-C | Iron Plus Vitamin C
No. 4
Haleon | Slow Fe｜Slow Release Iron Supplement
No. 5
21st Century | Slow Release Iron
5 more products

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What Are Iron Supplements?

Expert

Iron supplements are crucial for many, considering that ten million Americans do not get enough iron and 5 million are outright deficient in this mineral. Iron deficiency affects 1.2 billion people worldwide.

Iron supplements are dietary supplements used to increase the amount of iron in the body. Iron is a crucial mineral for various physiological functions, including growth, development, and hormone production. One of the primary roles of iron is in the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron also plays a key role in making myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles, supporting their proper function and endurance.

Iron supplements are often recommended for individuals with iron-deficiency anemia, a condition in which the body lacks enough iron to produce adequate levels of hemoglobin. This deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. These supplements are essential for individuals who cannot get enough iron from their diet alone, such as pregnant women, young children, and people with certain medical conditions.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN

Pregnant women, infants, young children, female athletes, menstruating women with heavy bleeding, frequent blood donors, and individuals with certain medical conditions are at high risk of iron deficiency and may benefit from iron supplements, though excessive intake should be avoided.

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How to Choose Iron Supplements - Buying Guide

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best iron supplement for you.

Check the Dosage and Strength of the Medication

Expert

The actual dose to prevent deficiency is based on the strength of the medication and the individual's age and sex.

The specific dose required to prevent iron deficiency depends on the strength of the supplement and the individual’s needs. Severe anemia typically requires a higher dose of 65 mg of elemental iron three times daily, but such treatment should be monitored by a healthcare provider based on blood tests. It's important to avoid over-supplementation, as doses greater than 25 mg per day can interfere with zinc absorption and lead to side effects or drug interactions. Careful adherence to recommended dosages helps ensure the safe and effective use of iron supplements.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN

The recommended daily dose of elemental iron varies based on age, sex, and life stage: adult and teenage males should take about 10 mg/day, adult and teenage females 10-15 mg/day, pregnant females around 30 mg/day, children aged 4-10 years 10 mg/day, and infants up to 3 years 6-10 mg/day.

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Choose the Category of Oral Iron That Best Suits Your Circumstance

Seek out iron supplements that give additional benefits or minimize side effects.

Pick Ferrous Sulfate if You Have Significant Iron Deficiency Anemia

Expert

The World Health Organization recommends ferrous sulfate as the first line of defense against iron deficiency anemia. This is because ferrous sulfate is inexpensive and effective.

Ferrous sulfate is often recommended for individuals with significant iron deficiency anemia because it provides a high amount of elemental iron, which is crucial for replenishing iron stores quickly. It is a cost-effective option and is widely available, making it a popular choice among healthcare providers. Ferrous sulfate is best suited for those who need a potent supplement and do not have a history of gastrointestinal sensitivity, as it can cause side effects like constipation, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Compared to other forms, ferrous sulfate offers a higher concentration of elemental iron per dose. However, it is known to cause more gastrointestinal side effects, which might not be tolerable for everyone. It is especially beneficial for those with severe iron deficiency who can manage the potential side effects with proper dietary adjustments or additional supplements to mitigate gastrointestinal discomfort.

For Higher Bioavailability and Less Side Effects, Opt for Iron Bisglycinate

Expert

The best supplement for those with gastrointestinal issues is iron bisglycinate, as it has fewer side effects.

Iron bisglycinate (or chelated iron) is often chosen for its higher bioavailability and more efficient absorption. Iron bisglycinate binds the iron to amino acids, enhancing its stability and absorption in the intestines, which can make it more effective for correcting iron deficiencies.

Aside from being gentler on the digestive system, this form of iron is often better tolerated by people who experience nausea or constipation with ferrous sulfate. This is due to its different chemical structures, which can lead to a slower and more gradual absorption process in the body.

For a Safer Iron Supplement With Lower Risk of Toxicity, Select Carbonyl Iron or Slow-Release Tablets

Expert

Carbonyl iron is safer for people with peptic ulcer disease and gastritis, and slow-release iron preparations have been shown to be absorbed better than fast-acting.

Carbonyl iron is a good option for individuals who need a safer iron supplement with a lower risk of toxicity. It is pure iron in a finely powdered form, which allows for a gradual release and absorption, minimizing the risk of iron overdose. This makes it especially suitable for children, pregnant women, and people who need to take iron supplements over a long period.

Slow-release tablets can also help manage iron intake in the body. They have also shown better absorption than their fast-acting counterparts and fewer gastrointestinal side effects.

These are particularly suited for those with conditions like chronic kidney disease, where careful management of iron levels is crucial. Additionally, its safety profile makes it an excellent choice for anyone concerned about the potential toxicity of other iron supplements.

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Choose a Form That Fits Your Lifestyle and Preferences

Make sure to pick the form that allows for a more manageable and pleasant intake for you.

Go for Tablets or Capsules if You Want a Convenient Option

Expert

Tablets and capsules are more convenient and safer for storing. They also don't stain your teeth like liquids do.

Tablets and capsules are often preferred for their convenience and storage safety. Tablets are generally easy to carry and store, making them a practical choice for those who need a reliable daily dose of iron. These forms also tend to have a longer shelf life compared to liquids or powders, minimizing the risk of degradation and ensuring the product remains effective over time.

Seek Out Liquids or Chewables if You Prefer One That Is Easier to Ingest

Expert

Some resort to liquids and chewables for faster absorption, greater bioavailability, ease, and ingestion convenience.

Liquids and chewables can be particularly advantageous for children, older individuals, and those with swallowing difficulties. Liquid iron supplements are often easier for young children and seniors to ingest, as they can be taken in small sips and are less likely to cause choking. Liquid iron is also gentler on your stomach and is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.

For individuals with swallowing difficulties, especially those who have problems with thin liquids, mixing iron supplements into a suitable bolus of food can be a practical solution. In cases where this is not feasible, chewable iron supplements can provide an effective alternative. These options help ensure that those with swallowing issues can still meet their iron needs comfortably and safely.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN

Do be aware that toxic doses are more accessible to obtain with chewables and liquids.

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10 Best Iron Supplement Ranking

Here are some of the best-selling iron supplements from sites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target to help you get started on your search. We ranked them independently based on our expert-backed buying guide and consumer popularity.

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	Products	Image	Click to purchase	Key features	Details
	Products	Image	Click to purchase	Key features	Serving Size	Type	Iron Dosage	Ferrous Sulfate	Iron Bisglycinate	Ferrous Gluconate	Additional Ingredients	Third-Party Certified
1	Nature's Bounty Nature's Bounty｜Iron			An Effective Solution to Iron Supplementation	1 Tablet	Tablet	65mg				Vegetable Cellulose, Crospovidone
2	Thorne Iron Bisglycinate			Gentle and Effective Iron Supplement	1 Capsule	Capsule	25mg				Hypromellose Capsule, Leucine, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide
3	Vitron-C Iron Plus Vitamin C			Boost Your Iron Absorption with Vitron-C	1 Tablet	Tablet	65mg				Vitamin C, Microcrystalline cellulose, Croscarmellose sodium, Magnesium Stearate, Hypromellose, Silica
4	Haleon Slow Fe｜Slow Release Iron Supplement			A Reliable Solution for Steady Iron Absorption	1 Tablet	Tablet	45mg				Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose, Hypromellose, Carbomer Homopolymer, Ascorbic Acid (Preservative), Magnesium Stearate, Tribasic Calcium Phosphate, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Polyethylene Glycol, Talc, Titanium Dioxide
5	21st Century Slow Release Iron			Consistent and Comfortable Iron Intake	1 Tablet	Tablet	45mg				Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Dextrose, Cellulose, Stearic Acid. Contains <2% of: Artificial Colors, Dextrin, Magnesium Silicate, Magnesium Stearate, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Polyethylene Glycol, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium Citrate, Titanium Dioxide.
6	Solgar Gentle Iron® Vegetable Capsules			A Gentle, Non-Constipating Iron Solution	1 Vegetable Capsule	Capsule	25mg				Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Cellulose, Vegetable Magnesium Stearate.
7	MegaFood Blood Builder Iron Supplement			Whole-Food Iron Boost	1 Tablet	Tablet	26mg				Vitamin B12, Urganic Beetroot, Organic Brown Rice, Yeast [Inactive], Rice Protein, Autolyzed Yeast, Stearic Acid, Silicon Dioxide, Hypromellose
8	Floradix Iron & Herbs Liquid Herbal Supplement			Nourishing Liquid Iron Supplement	10 mL	Liquid	10mg				Thiamin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Iron, Aqueous Extract From Carrot Root, Stinging Nettle Herb, Spinach Leaves, Fennel Fruit, Couch Grass Root, Kelp, Hibiscus Flowers, Yeast Extract, Rose Hip Extract, Wheat Germ Extract, Pear Juice Concentrate, Water, Grape Juice Concentrate, Black Currant Juice, Honey, Orange Juice Concentrate, Blackberry Juice Concentrate, Cherry Juice Concentrate, Red Beet Juice Concentrate, Ascorbic Acid and Natural Flavor.
9	Renzo's Iron Strong			Orange Flavored Melty Tabs	1 Tablet (2 & 3 years of age), 2 Tablet (4 years of age and older)	Tablet	9mg				Vitamin C, Mannitol, Natural Flavor, Plant-Based Magnesium Stearate, and Monk Fruit Extract.
10	MaryRuth’s Liquid Iron			A Liquid Iron Supplement for the Whole Family	1 tsp to 1 tbsp	Liquid	6 - 18mg				Purified Water, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Natural Flavor, Citric Acid, Organic Rebaudioside A, Xanthan Gum, and Potassium Sorbate (to preserve freshness).

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.

No.1

10 Best Iron Supplements [Registered Dietitian-Reviewed]

What Are Iron Supplements?

How to Choose Iron Supplements - Buying Guide

Check the Dosage and Strength of the Medication

Choose the Category of Oral Iron That Best Suits Your Circumstance

Pick Ferrous Sulfate if You Have Significant Iron Deficiency Anemia

For Higher Bioavailability and Less Side Effects, Opt for Iron Bisglycinate

For a Safer Iron Supplement With Lower Risk of Toxicity, Select Carbonyl Iron or Slow-Release Tablets

Choose a Form That Fits Your Lifestyle and Preferences

Go for Tablets or Capsules if You Want a Convenient Option

Seek Out Liquids or Chewables if You Prefer One That Is Easier to Ingest

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An Effective Solution to Iron Supplementation

ThorneIron Bisglycinate

Gentle and Effective Iron Supplement

Vitron-C Iron Plus Vitamin C

Boost Your Iron Absorption with Vitron-C

HaleonSlow Fe ｜ Slow Release Iron Supplement

A Reliable Solution for Steady Iron Absorption

21st CenturySlow Release Iron

Consistent and Comfortable Iron Intake

SolgarGentle Iron® Vegetable Capsules

A Gentle, Non-Constipating Iron Solution

MegaFood Blood Builder Iron Supplement

Whole-Food Iron Boost

FloradixIron & Herbs Liquid Herbal Supplement

Nourishing Liquid Iron Supplement

Renzo'sIron Strong

Orange Flavored Melty Tabs

MaryRuth’sLiquid Iron

A Liquid Iron Supplement for the Whole Family

Top 5 Iron Supplement

Vegan Protein Powder

Maca Root Supplement

Ashwagandha Supplement

Granola Bars

Healthiest Meal Replacement Shakes

Health Drinks for Kids

Probiotics for Bloating

Vegan Multivitamins for Men

Probiotics for Menopause

GABA Supplement

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10 Best Iron Supplement Ranking

Thorne
Iron Bisglycinate

Vitron-C
Iron Plus Vitamin C

Haleon
Slow Fe ｜ Slow Release Iron Supplement

21st Century
Slow Release Iron

Solgar
Gentle Iron® Vegetable Capsules

MegaFood
Blood Builder Iron Supplement

Floradix
Iron & Herbs Liquid Herbal Supplement

Renzo's
Iron Strong

MaryRuth’s
Liquid Iron