What are the types of iron supplements available?
Iron deficiency is super common, and taking supplements is a great way to boost low iron for many. But with so many different options out there to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? WUKA experts discuss the different types of iron supplements available.
In this article we’ll be looking at:
The types of iron supplements available
The benefits of iron gummies
How to choose the right iron supplement for you
What are the types of iron supplements available?
Low iron is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies, and the symptoms of an iron deficiency can range from milld to severe. If you think you might be low on iron, speak to your GP for advice and to have your blood tested. Your doctor can advise you on the right treatment plan moving forward.
There are many different types of iron supplements available, including:
Traditional Iron Tablets and Capsules
The most common form of iron supplements comes in the form of tablets or capsules. These usually contain either ferrous or ferric iron compounds. Ferrous supplements (like ferrous sulphate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate) are more easily absorbed by your body.
These tablets pack a punch when it comes to iron content - a single pill can contain 65mg. However, they're notorious for causing digestive discomfort. Many people report constipation, nausea, and stomach pain after taking traditional iron pills.
Some natural iron tablets attempt to solve these problems by using gentler iron forms
or adding digestive aids. These natural iron supplements might include ingredients like vitamin C to improve absorption or herbs that support digestion.
Liquid Iron Supplements
Liquid supplements are great for anyone who struggles with swallowing pills, available as syrups, drops, or tonics.
Liquid iron tends to be a little easier on the stomach than tablets, and you can adjust your dosage more precisely. That said, many liquid iron supplements can have a strong, metallic taste that's hard to mask. They can also stain teeth if not properly diluted or taken through a straw.
Iron-Infused foods and drinks
Food fortified with iron can be an effective way to increase your iron intake too. Look for cereals, bread and even iron-enriched water of you want to boost low iron. These products will give you a smaller dose of iron compared to dedicated supplements but can be helpful for preventing deficiency.
Whole Iron and Food-Based Supplements
Whole iron supplements derive their iron from food sources rather than isolated minerals. These typically contain iron-rich foods like spinach, beets, or even liver in dehydrated, powdered form.
While these supplements contain lower amounts of elemental iron, it could be argued that the natural ingredients can improve how well your body can absorb it, and reduce side effects too. Vegans often look for natural vegan iron supplements that source their minerals from plants rather than animal products.
Iron Injections
If you doctor diagnoses a severe deficiency, or you have absorption issues, you might be recommended to take a course of iron injections. These bypass the digestive system altogether but require professional administration and aren't suitable for general use.
Iron Gummies
Iron gummies have revolutionised the way we take supplements, and they have several advantages that make them stand out from traditional options too.
- Better taste: iron gummies for adults have surged in popularity, thanks to their pleasant taste and candy-like texture - helping to transform supplementation from a dreaded chore into something you might actually look forward to. WUKA Cycle Care iron gummies are flavoured with natural raspberry - yum!
- More gentle on the tummy: beyond taste, gummies for iron often cause fewer digestive issues than traditional tablets, because the iron is typically delivered in a form that's gentler on the stomach, reducing those common complaints of nausea or constipation.
- Better absorption: lots of gummy supplements combine ingredients to help give you more for your money. For example, our iron gummies are formulated with vitamin C, which helps to significantly boost iron absorption (source). Our gummies also use iron bisglycinate which is a gentle form that your body is able to process more easily too.
- Balanced dosage: iron gummies typically deliver a moderate dose of iron- not too little, not too much. This balanced approach helps prevent iron overload while still addressing deficiency. Again, our iron gummies stand out here, with 14m iron and 90mg Vitamin C for adults, and 11mg iron with 40mg Vitamin C for teens.
- Vegan options: gummies made with plant-based ingredients are perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.
Choosing the right iron supplement for you
Knowledge is power, so having all the information on the different types of iron supplements available helps. The following points are key to keep in mind when choosing:
- If you have a severe iron deficiency, traditional tablets might provide the highest doses, though with potential side effects. Your doctor might even prescribe you a course of iron injections.
- For moderate supplementation with minimal digestive distress, iron gummies are a great choice for many, as they offer an effective dose with fewer side effects.
- Look for supplements that include complementary nutrients - iron with vitamin C is particularly effective since vitamin C enhances absorption significantly.
- If you’re following a plant-based diet, look for vegan iron supplements - again, our Iron gummies with Vitamin C are an excellent choice; they’re gluten-free and non GMO too.
The bottom line on iron supplements
There are lots of different types of iron supplements to choose from, and its important to get advice from your doctor or pharmacist as to the type that’s best for you. Traditional tablets and liquids often have more side effects than iron gummies, and can make the whole process of taking supplements a lot easier too.
Whether you have a deficiency, or you simply want to support your nutritional needs, supplements don’t replace a healthy and balanced diet.
