Best Iron Supplement for Anemia: Top 5 Choices for 2024

The most common cause of anemia remains iron deficiency. Although a poor diet is often associated with lower iron levels, a wide range of factors, including a heavy menstruation cycle, may also increase the risk of developing iron deficiency.

If you have been diagnosed with iron deficiency, your doctor may recommend taking supplements to help you boost your iron reserves.

However, supplementation with this mineral is not as straightforward: there are various brands and types of products to choose from. For this article, we have gathered some of the best iron supplements for anemia for you to explore.

Best iron supplement for anemia: a shortlist

1. Future Kind — best iron supplement overall
2. Sapotax — best liposomal iron supplement
3. Pure Micronutrients — best comprehensive iron supplement
4. Nature Made — best affordable iron supplement
5. Performance Lab — best iron supplement for daily usage

How we compiled our list of the best iron supplements for anemia

Although iron supplements can be a valuable option for iron deficiency-induced anemia, consumers should be diligent in choosing the most suitable product due to a wide range of options.

We have prepared our list of the best iron supplements for anemia using the criteria below.

Type of iron	Additional ingredients	Price	Diet compatibility
Better absorbed iron formulas	May support iron absorption (vitamin C) or may help with the anemia symptoms	Adequate price per serving	Can be incorporated into most diets

• Type of iron. We preferred novel types of iron supplements compared to iron salts. Iron salts are often associated with limitations in bioavailability.
• Additional ingredients. We preferred products that contain vitamin C as this compound may help iron absorption. Moreover, this article includes some products containing folate and vitamin B12, as their deficiency is also linked to anemia.
• Price. For product comparison, we compared the price per serving.
• Diet compatibility. We analyzed diet compatibility, especially vegan and vegetarian friendliness.

Best iron supplement for anemia: an overview

Anemia is a condition that can only be diagnosed by your doctor after completing the blood tests. Moreover, not all anemia is caused by iron deficiencies. Always consult your doctor before starting any dietary supplement.

1. Future Kind — overall best iron supplement

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Future Kind is a sustainability-oriented brand that offers a completely vegan iron supplement to meet your daily needs.

The product features ferrous bisglycinate — a novel iron compound that is regarded to be more bioavailable and is associated with fewer gastrointestinal symptoms. The total amount of iron within this supplement is 18 mg (equivalent to 100% of the recommended daily value for adults).

For better absorption, the product contains vitamin C, which is commonly recommended to be taken alongside iron.

What makes Future Kind unique is its commitment to quality. This product has been third-party tested to ensure it is free of common supplement contaminations.

One bottle containing a 30-day supply would cost you $19.99 (or $0.67 per serving) before any discounts.

2. Sapotax — best liposomal iron supplement for anemia

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Iron supplements are often associated with gastrointestinal side effects, such as upset stomach. To combat this problem, Sapotax utilizes liposomal technology. Moreover, this technology is proposed to help increase the absorption of active ingredients.

Besides iron (ferrous sulfate type), this product contains folic acid and vitamin B12. Deficiencies in these essential vitamins are also linked to anemia.

Keep in mind that Sapotax contains 65 mg of iron, which is above the recommended daily value (RDV). Exceeding the RDV for iron may lead to adverse effects. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for the most appropriate dosages before incorporating supplements into your routine.

Although the product is gluten, dairy, soy, and GMO-free, it is worth noting that it contains gelatin, which is not vegan or vegetarian-friendly.

Right now, one bottle containing 60 softgels is retailed at $19.94, or $0.33 per serving.

3. Pure Micronutrients — best iron supplement for anemia with a comprehensive ingredient list

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Made from ferrous glycinate chelate, this product contains 25 mg of iron. In addition, Pure Micronutrients boasts vitamin C for better iron absorption. To cover other possible deficiencies related to cases of anemia, Pure Micronutrients has also included vitamins B6 and B12 alongside folic acid.

This supplement is vegan-friendly and is made in FDA-registered and GMP-complying facilities. According to the brand, the product has been lab-tested for purity and potency.

If you wish to purchase this Pure Micronutrients product, currently, a bottle containing 120 capsules is priced at $24.97. As the daily recommended serving is 1 capsule, this product would cost you $0.21 per day.

4. Nature Made — best budget-friendly iron supplement

This product by Nature Made is an economical option for an iron supplement, as one daily serving would cost you a mere $0.05, making it the cheapest on the list.

Each serving of Nature Made delivers a potent dose of 65 mg of iron in the form of ferrous sulfate. Keep in mind that this is above the recommended daily value. Exceeding the RDV for iron may lead to adverse effects. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for the most appropriate dosages before incorporating supplements into your routine.

Right now, Nature Made is retailed at $10.59 for a 180-supply bottle ($0.05 per serving).

5. Performance Lab — best iron supplement for daily health support

Boosting 14 mg of iron, this supplement by Performance Lab is tailored to be included in your daily wellness routine to help you easily meet your iron requirements.

Although the brand does not disclose the exact type of iron within this supplement, Performance Lab claims its supplement to be exceptionally digestible, minimizing the likelihood of gastric discomfort. This is achieved due to their proprietary NutriGenesis® technology employed in manufacturing.

For better iron absorption, this product also includes vitamin C.

As of now, this Performance Lab supplement has not been released. You can, however, join the waiting list.

Comparing the best iron supplements for anemia

Brand	Type of iron	Amount of iron	Additional ingredients	Diet compatibility	Price	Price per serving
Future Kind	Ferrous bisglycinate	18 mg	Vitamin C	Vegan	$19.99	$0.67
Sapotax	Ferrous sulfate (liposomal)	65 mg	Folic acid, vitamin B12	Does not specify	$19.94	$0.33
Pure Micronutrients	Ferrous glycinate chelate	25 mg	Vitamin C, vitamin B6, folicic acid, vitamin B12	Vegan	$24.97	$0.21
Nature Made	Ferrous sulfate	65 mg	N/A	Does not specify	$10.59	$0.05
Performance Lab	Does not specify (NutriGenesis® coating)	14 mg	Vitamin C	Vegan	N/A	N/A

What is anemia?

Anemia is a disorder that is characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells, hemoglobin, or abnormalities related to their function. These factors can reduce the blood's capacity to carry oxygen around the organism, making symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath prevalent in individuals dealing with anemia.

There are many types of anemia relating to the causal factors. The most common type is anemia caused by iron deficiency. Iron deficiency anemia often happens because of blood loss. For this reason, menstruating individuals are at a higher risk.

Other anemia causes include:

• Other deficiencies (e.g., folate or vitamin B12)
• Blood function abnormalities (e.g., hemolytic anemia)
• Other factors (e.g., chronic infection)

Symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia

Iron-deficiency anemia can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Brittle nails
• Hair loss
• Paleness
• Dizziness
• Abnormal cravings

It is important to note that anemia is diagnosed through blood tests, and experiencing the aforementioned symptoms does not necessarily mean you have the condition.

Moreover, some cases of anemia can stem from different causes not related to iron deficiency and will require different approaches.

It is essential to consult your doctor to find out the root cause of the problem. Moreover, only your doctor can prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

How can iron help with anemia

Iron deficiency anemia can be addressed with supplementation. This is because iron is essential in the production of hemoglobin. If your body lacks iron, it may not produce enough hemoglobin, leading to anemia.

However, it is important to understand that anemia could be caused by other factors not related to iron deficiency. In cases like that, supplementation with iron will not help with the condition.

Always follow your doctor's instructions if you have been diagnosed with anemia.

If you only suspect that you have anemia, it is crucial to discuss the matter with your doctor for evaluation. Your doctor may order certain blood tests to clarify the diagnosis.

Other health benefits of iron supplementation

Iron deficiency remains a global problem. As it can lead to various complications, it is important to get enough of this element through diet. Supplementation can also serve as a valuable tool, especially when there is a deficiency.

Decrease the risk of developing anemia

Some people may be at a higher risk of developing iron deficiency anemia, including individuals constantly experiencing heavy period bleeding.

It is crucial to talk to your healthcare provider to determine whether you are at risk and what further steps should be taken to combat it.

Decrease fatigue

Ensuring an adequate intake of iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements as recommended by a healthcare provider may help alleviate fatigue associated with iron deficiency. Studies pinpoint that this benefit is observable in people without anemia as well.

Types of iron supplements

Iron supplements can be divided into two main categories.

Iron salts

Iron salt supplements are more common than newer sustained-release iron formulations. However, they have lower bioavailability and may have more side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort.

Iron salts include ferrous sulfate and ferrous succinate.

Some technologies could be utilized to help the absorption of iron salts, e.g., liposomal delivery.

Newer forms of iron supplements

Newer forms of iron supplements are designed for enhanced absorption and reduced gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional iron salts.

Examples of these forms include ferrous bisglycinate and ferrous glycinate chelate.

Not every novel iron form has been well-researched.

How to take iron supplements effectively

Iron supplements are advised to be taken with vitamin C for possibly increased absorption.

Moreover, it is recommended to take iron supplements on an empty stomach as they may help absorption. However, this approach may increase the risk of side effects.

It is also best to avoid taking calcium alongside iron.

For the best results, always follow the manufacturer and doctor’s recommendations.

Risks and side effects to consider when taking iron

Iron supplementation can be beneficial for individuals with iron deficiency.

However, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and side effects associated with iron supplementation.

The main complaint while taking iron supplements is gastrointestinal side effects. These can include:

• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Consult your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any moderate or severe side effects.

Also, some formulas may be causing more side effects, e.g., studies suggest that iron salts are more likely less tolerated than novel iron forms.

It is important to note that iron supplements could interact with medications or other supplements. If you have any underlying conditions, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

Lifestyle and dietary tips to enhance iron absorption

Iron supplements and iron-rich foods are advised to be consumed with vitamin C. For this reason, some brands include vitamin C in their formula.

Moreover, it is known that heme iron (from animal products) is absorbed better than nonheme iron (from plant sources). Research studies also suggest that vegetarians and vegans are at a higher risk of developing iron deficiency.

Good heme iron sources are beef, liver, and seafood. If you opt for nonheme iron products, spinach, lentils, pumpkin seeds, apricots and quinoa.

Avoid eating calcium together with iron, as it may reduce iron absorption.

Best iron supplement for anemia — conclusion

If you have been diagnosed with anemia, you may be wondering if incorporating iron supplements is the right choice for you. In cases of iron deficiency-induced anemia, supplements can be recommended by your healthcare provider.

Opt for iron supplements that contain vitamin C, as this compound may help your body to absorb iron. It is advisable to take iron supplements on an empty stomach. However, it may increase the chance of experiencing side effects.

Moreover, check the type of iron within the formula. Iron salts are more commonly used but they also may cause more severe side effects.

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