Iron

Authorised claims for iron

Iron is a trace element with several authorised health claims:

• Iron contributes to normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin.
• Iron contributes to normal oxygen transport in the body.
• Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

In addition, vitamin C increases iron absorption, which is why some products combine the two.

Forms of iron at a glance

• Iron bisglycinate: a chelate with the amino acid glycine, for example NOW Foods Iron 18 mg.
• Ferrous fumarate and other salts: classic compounds with a high iron share, such as Swanson Iron (Ferrous Fumarate) 18 mg.
• Liposomal iron: embedded in phospholipids, for example Osavi Liposomal Iron 20 mg.
• Liquid iron: NOW Foods Liquid Iron or Trace Minerals Ionic Iron, handy if you would rather not swallow tablets.
• Formulas with food components: for example Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron.
• Lactoferrin: an iron-binding protein from milk, for example Life Extension Lactoferrin Caps. It is not a classic iron supplement, but people often look for it in the same context.
• Chewables and sprays: for example Carlson Labs Kid's Chewable Iron or the BetterYou Iron 10 mg oral spray.

What to look out for

Compare the amount of elemental iron per daily serving; many products sit between 15 and 27 mg. Allnutrition Iron SR uses slow release. Iron is a mineral where more is not automatically better: follow the amount on the label exactly and keep iron products out of the reach of children. Also check whether your multivitamin already contains iron, so you do not count the amounts twice.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet. If you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between iron bisglycinate and ferrous fumarate?

Bisglycinate is bound to the amino acid glycine, while fumarate is a salt of fumaric acid. Both provide iron, and the amount per tablet is on the label.

What is lactoferrin?

A protein from milk that can bind iron. It is not a classic iron supplement.

Is there iron without tablets?

Yes, as a liquid, an oral spray or a chewable.