Best Iron Supplements For Pregnancy (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best iron supplements for pregnancy, you are in the right place. Iron is an essential mineral required for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein molecule found in red blood cells. During pregnancy, the demand for iron increases significantly to support the growth and development of the fetus. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 50% of pregnant women are at risk of iron deficiency anemia.
When choosing an iron supplement for pregnancy, there are a few factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the dosage. Pregnant women typically need 27 milligrams of iron per day, so it’s vital to ensure the supplement contains the recommended amount. Additionally, it’s essential to choose a supplement that’s easy on the stomach, as some formulations can cause constipation or other digestive issues.
If you’re unsure which iron supplement to choose for pregnancy, here are a few questions to consider. What’s the iron source used in the supplement, and is it easily absorbed by the body? Does the supplement contain other essential prenatal vitamins and minerals, like folic acid or vitamin C? Are there any potential side effects or interactions with other medications or supplements? By asking these questions and doing your research, you can find the best iron supplement for your pregnancy needs.
10 Best Iron Supplements For Pregnancy
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It is an iron supplement with essential nutrients that helps in blood-building and optimal absorption, suitable for those lacking in iron.
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This product is ideal for those who want to improve their iron intake and support energy, without experiencing constipation.
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This product is ideal for individuals with iron deficiency anemia or during pregnancy as a dietary supplement.
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The product is ideal for addressing iron deficiency and anemia in both women and men.
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Ideal for promoting healthy iron levels with a non-constipating, vegan, gluten-free formula that includes Ferractiv Iron, Vitamin C, and Ginger.
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The product is ideal for providing essential vitamins and minerals in a delicious, vegan-friendly gummy form for both adults and children.
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This product is ideal for women who are trying to conceive, pregnant, or postpartum to support their nutritional needs.
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The product is ideal for women's health and wellness, providing iron and folic acid support for anemia, periods, and pregnancy.
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The product is ideal for increasing iron levels without side effects and is vegan-friendly.
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This product is ideal for supporting red blood cell formation and fighting symptoms of iron deficiency.
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1. Blood Builder Plus – 60 Capsules
This iron supplement is a reliable source of iron that offers 36 mg of elemental iron per capsule. It is formulated with iron bisgycinate, a well-absorbed and non-constipating form of iron that is enhanced by the presence of vitamin C. This supplement is designed to nourish the blood and increase iron levels in the body.
In addition to iron and vitamin C, this supplement also contains other essential vitamins such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate. Vitamin B6 is in the form of pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, while vitamin B12 is in the form of methylcobalamin. Folate is in the form of L-5-MTHF. Together, these ingredients work to optimize blood-building processes in the body.
Iron deficiency can present a wide range of symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, tinnitus, and more. This supplement helps to combat these symptoms by increasing iron levels in the body.
This iron supplement is free from common allergens such as gluten, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, dairy, soy, fish, and shellfish. This makes it a great choice for individuals with dietary restrictions.
Thorne, the manufacturer of this supplement, is a trusted brand that is chosen by champions and trusted by over 100 professional teams. Thorne is the only supplement manufacturer to collaborate with Mayo Clinic on wellness research and content. Thorne is also a proud partner of 11 U.S. Olympic Teams. With such a reputation, users can be confident in the quality and efficacy of this iron supplement.
2. Ironmax: High-Absorption Energy Boosting Capsules.
Iron is a crucial nutrient that is responsible for the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body, thereby supporting energy production. It also plays a significant role in the normal function of the immune system. However, iron deficiency is prevalent, affecting 2.1 billion men and women worldwide. Thankfully, iron supplements can help relieve symptoms of iron deficiency.
Active Iron is a high-potency iron supplement that is clinically proven to have 2x better absorption of iron sulfate and 6x less gut irritation. It is a non-constipating, gentle iron supplement that can even be taken on an empty stomach. This supplement is free from artificial colors, preservatives, gluten, and sugar, making it an excellent choice for people with dietary restrictions.
Endurance exercisers, vegetarians, blood donors, women with periods, pregnant, and postpartum women can benefit from taking Active Iron supplements. These easy-to-swallow iron tablets are specially formulated for adult men and women with inadequate iron levels.
Active Iron supplements stand out from other iron supplements because they target the gut’s natural ‘iron absorber’ site, where iron is better absorbed, instead of being broken down in the stomach like immediate-release iron pills. This results in better absorption and less gut irritation.
3. Fusion Iron Chews: Boost Your Blood!
Fusion Lifestyle soft chews are a fantastic way to supplement your daily iron intake. Each serving contains 45 mg of iron and 60 mg of vitamin C, which helps with iron absorption. These soft chews are perfect for those looking to boost their iron mineral intake or improve their overall wellness routine.
Recommended for daily use, simply take one soft chew per day to enjoy the sweet and fruity cherry taste. With 60 individually wrapped soft chews per bottle, you'll have a roughly two-month supply.
These soft chews are suitable for a wide range of individuals, including bariatric patients, those who suffer from anemia, women, men, prenatal and postnatal individuals, and anyone looking for an iron mineral supplement.
As a globally recognized nutraceutical company, Fusion Lifestyle is dedicated to developing, manufacturing, and distributing safe, convenient, and effective bariatric nutritional supplements. Their products are proudly manufactured in the USA and their facility is GMP certified, located in Buffalo, NY.
Fusion Lifestyle soft chews are an excellent addition to your health and wellness routine, providing you with a convenient and effective way to supplement your daily iron intake.
4. Ferractiv Iron Mini-Tabs For Healthy Iron Absorption
Introducing the Complete Iron Mini-Tabs, a plant-based formula that provides the body with 30mg of non-constipating Ferractiv iron per serving. This food-based iron supplement is gentle on the stomach and is easy to digest, making it a great choice for those with sensitive digestive systems.
By maintaining healthy, oxygenated blood, this iron supplement helps protect the body against immune deficiencies. The inclusion of prune, fig, and raisin powders further aids in optimal digestion and ensures that the supplement is effective and gentle.
In line with our commitment to sustainability, the Complete Iron Mini-Tabs come in 100% post-consumer recycled and recyclable bottles that are free from BPA. We believe in taking a stand for more ocean and less plastic.
Our vegan and gluten-free Complete Iron Mini-Tabs are made with natural, purity-tested ingredients and contain no artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, or sweeteners.
Please note that during the summer months, the product may arrive warm due to shipping. However, Amazon stores and ships products in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the product's quality and efficacy.
Upgrade your iron intake with Complete Iron Mini-Tabs, the gentle and effective solution for maintaining healthy blood and immune function.
5. Iron Boost Gummies – Vegan Grape Multivitamins
The BeLive Iron Gummies are a supplement that provides a daily dose of iron in a tasty, easy-to-take gummy form. These chewable gummies are suitable for both adults and kids and can aid in maintaining a healthy pregnancy, improving athletic performance, and boosting energy levels.
The iron in these gummies is non-constipating and gentle on the stomach. Additionally, they are enriched with essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Folic Acid, Zinc, and Vitamin B complex (B3, B5, B6, B12) that are vital for maintaining overall health from childhood through to adulthood and even old age.
Vegans, women, and children often suffer from iron deficiency, and these gummies are designed to address this issue by providing sufficient daily iron and vegan multivitamins to sustain energy levels.
The BeLive Iron Gummies contain premium-quality Vitamin C that helps in better absorption of iron supplements for women, kids, and men. They undergo rigorous quality checks at every stage, from blending to processing, testing, bottling, labeling, and follow-up testing, ensuring the highest standards of quality are maintained.
6. Prenatal Plus: Essential For Moms-To-Be
One A Day Women's Prenatal 1 Multivitamin is a complete and specially formulated prenatal multivitamin that aims to provide women with the necessary nutritional support before, during, and after pregnancy. This multivitamin contains essential nutrients such as Folic Acid, Omega 3 DHA, Calcium, Vitamin D, and Iron, which are crucial for the development and growth of the baby and the overall health of the mother.
It is important to note that exposure to heat or sunlight may lead to the melting or damage of the product, hence it is recommended for customers to be available during the product delivery to prevent such occurrences.
One A Day Women's Prenatal multivitamins are the No.1 OB/GYN recommended over the counter brand of prenatal multivitamins, which is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of the product. It is a vital step to add a prenatal multivitamin to daily routines in providing nutritional support for pregnant women and babies throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
One A Day Prenatal 1 Multivitamin Softgels are gluten-free and do not contain any artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup that could potentially harm the mother and the baby. Amazon stores and ships products in accordance with the manufacturers' recommendations during the summer months, thus customers can rest assured that the product will arrive in good condition.
7. Folic Iron: Women's Essential Anemia Support
This iron supplement for women is a potent and gentle solution for red blood cell production, energy, and general health support. It is rapidly absorbed into the body, making it effective and efficient. The supplement contains 35mg of iron, which is equivalent to 194% of the daily value, making it an ideal choice for women who need extra support during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and postnatal period.
Folate, also known as folic acid or vitamin B-9, is essential for DNA and blood cell building. This supplement contains 400mcg of folic acid, which is equivalent to 167% of the daily folate value. This provides an additional boost to women who may be experiencing anemia or who need extra support during pregnancy.
This iron supplement is easy to take, with just one single tablet needed each day. It provides support for a pregnant woman's health and helps with normal fetal development.
It is important to spot the symptoms of iron or folate deficiency, such as fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, brittle nails, and hair. Taking a prenatal vitamin booster supplement, like this one, and seeking professional advice can help address these symptoms and prevent further complications.
8. Iron Boost+ – Vegan Iron Supplement (60 Tablets)
MegaFood Blood Builder is a science-backed supplement that can increase iron levels without causing constipation. It is a gentle and effective source of iron, providing 26 mg per serving to combat fatigue and improve energy levels. This product includes vital nutrients such as folic acid and B12, which help maintain red blood cell production.
Crafted with care, Blood Builder is suitable for a range of individuals, including menstruating women, teenage girls, pregnant women, vegans, vegetarians, athletes, and recent blood donors. The mini tablets are convenient to take and can be consumed at any time of day, with or without food and drink. However, it is not recommended for children.
MegaFood is obsessed with quality and has tested this supplement for over 125 chemical substances. It is also Non-GMO Project verified and Vegan. Blood Builder is made without gluten, dairy, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, fish, shellfish or sesame in a GMP facility. MegaFood is a Certified B Corp, ensuring that the company is committed to meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
9. Iron Boost: Optimal Absorption For Rbc Formation
Introducing the Well-Absorbed Iron dietary supplement, designed to provide a highly absorbable and non-constipating form of iron bisglycinate. With every capsule containing 25 mg of elemental iron, this supplement is an essential mineral for the formation of new red blood cells, which can help combat fatigue and other signs of an iron deficiency.
Iron deficiency symptoms can manifest in several ways, such as weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, tinnitus, drowsiness, irritability, infrequent menstruation, and loss of libido. This supplement can help fight these symptoms by providing the body with the necessary iron it needs to produce healthy red blood cells.
The Well-Absorbed Iron supplement is NSF Certified for Sport, making it an ideal choice for high-performance nutrition programs. It is also trusted by over 100 professional teams and champions alike, making it a reliable and effective supplement for all athletes.
Thorne, the manufacturer of this supplement, is the only supplement manufacturer that collaborates with Mayo Clinic on wellness research and content. This partnership ensures that all Thorne supplements are of the highest quality and supported by clinical research.
In addition, Thorne is proud to be a partner of 11 U.S. Olympic Teams. This exemplifies Thorne's commitment to producing high-quality supplements that are trusted by top athletes worldwide.
If you're looking for a dietary supplement that can help fight fatigue, combat iron deficiency symptoms, and support high-performance nutrition programs, look no further than the Well-Absorbed Iron supplement from Thorne.
Best Iron Supplements For Pregnancy FAQs
Are there any brands of iron supplements that are specifically formulated for pregnant women?
Yes, there are several brands of iron supplements that are specifically formulated for pregnant women. During pregnancy, a woman's body needs more iron to produce hemoglobin for the growing fetus and to support her own increased blood volume. Iron deficiency during pregnancy can lead to serious health complications for both the mother and the baby.
One popular brand of iron supplements for pregnant women is called "Prenatal Vitamins with Iron". This supplement contains a blend of vitamins and minerals, including iron, folic acid, and calcium, that are essential for a healthy pregnancy.
Another popular brand is "Slow Release Iron", which is designed to release iron slowly over time, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation and nausea.
It's important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any iron supplement, as they can help determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your iron levels throughout your pregnancy.
Are there any natural sources of iron that pregnant women can consume instead of supplements?
Yes, there are several natural sources of iron that pregnant women can consume instead of supplements to meet their daily iron requirements. Some of the best natural sources of iron include red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, tofu, spinach, kale, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, and dried fruits such as apricots and raisins. These foods are not only rich in iron but also provide other essential nutrients that are important for a healthy pregnancy.
It is important to note that the body absorbs iron from animal sources more easily than from plant-based sources. Therefore, pregnant women who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may need to consume more iron-rich foods to meet their daily requirements. Additionally, consuming vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and bell peppers can help the body absorb iron more efficiently.
Overall, a balanced and varied diet that includes a variety of iron-rich foods can help pregnant women meet their iron requirements without the need for supplements. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to the diet.
Are there any side effects of taking iron supplements during pregnancy?
Iron is an essential nutrient that is particularly important during pregnancy as it helps to support the growth and development of the baby. However, taking too much iron can cause side effects. Some common side effects of taking iron supplements during pregnancy include constipation, nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea. In some cases, iron supplements can also cause dark stools or even black stools, which can be a sign of internal bleeding.
It is important to note that taking too much iron during pregnancy can be dangerous and can lead to iron toxicity. Symptoms of iron toxicity include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, iron toxicity can cause organ damage and even death.
Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking iron supplements during pregnancy. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and monitor any potential side effects. Additionally, pregnant women can increase their iron intake through a healthy diet that includes iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and leafy green vegetables.
Can iron supplements help with fatigue during pregnancy?
Iron supplements can help with fatigue during pregnancy, especially if the fatigue is caused by iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia is a common condition during pregnancy, and it occurs when the body doesn't have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the tissues. This can make pregnant women feel tired, weak, and short of breath. Taking iron supplements can help to increase the body's iron stores and boost red blood cell production, which can alleviate these symptoms. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements during pregnancy, as too much iron can be harmful. A healthcare provider can also determine if the fatigue is caused by anemia or another underlying condition, and recommend appropriate treatment. In addition to taking supplements, pregnant women can also boost their iron intake by eating iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables.
Can iron supplements prevent pregnancy complications such as preterm delivery?
Iron supplements are important for maintaining healthy iron levels during pregnancy. However, there is no conclusive evidence that iron supplements can prevent pregnancy complications such as preterm delivery. While iron deficiency has been linked to preterm delivery, it is important to note that preterm delivery can be caused by a variety of factors and iron supplementation alone may not be sufficient to prevent it.
That being said, pregnant women are generally advised to take iron supplements to prevent iron deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other complications. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the appropriate dosage of iron supplements and any other steps you can take to promote a healthy pregnancy. A balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods such as red meat, spinach, and beans can also help maintain healthy iron levels.
How do I know if I need to take iron supplements during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body requires more iron to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the fetus. If you do not have enough iron in your body, you may develop iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
Your doctor will monitor your iron levels during regular prenatal checkups and may recommend iron supplements if your levels are low. However, some women may need iron supplements even if their levels are normal, such as those with a history of anemia, heavy menstrual bleeding, or a diet low in iron-rich foods.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any iron supplements, as excessive iron intake can be harmful. Your doctor may recommend a specific type and dosage of iron supplement based on your individual needs and health history. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in iron, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy greens, can also help ensure you are getting enough iron during pregnancy.
How much iron should pregnant women take?
Pregnant women have higher iron needs as they are supporting the growth and development of the fetus. The recommended daily intake of iron for pregnant women is 27 milligrams per day. This is higher than the recommended intake for non-pregnant women, which is 18 milligrams per day.
Iron is an important mineral that helps to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. During pregnancy, the body needs more iron to support the growth of the fetus and to produce additional blood for the mother. Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition during pregnancy, which can lead to complications such as preterm delivery and low birth weight.
It is important for pregnant women to eat a diet rich in iron, including foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy green vegetables. Iron supplements may also be recommended by a healthcare provider if a pregnant woman is not getting enough iron from her diet. It is important to discuss iron supplementation with a healthcare provider as too much iron can also be harmful.
How often should pregnant women take iron supplements?
Pregnant women need more iron than non-pregnant women to support the growth and development of their baby. The recommended daily intake of iron for pregnant women is 27 milligrams per day. However, it is not always possible to get enough iron from food alone, so many pregnant women take iron supplements.
The frequency of iron supplements during pregnancy depends on the individual needs of the woman. In general, pregnant women are advised to take iron supplements daily, usually in the form of a prenatal vitamin that contains iron. However, some women may need to take additional iron supplements if they have anemia or other health conditions that affect their ability to absorb iron.
It is important to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about how much iron you need during pregnancy and how often you should take supplements. They may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your iron levels and adjust your supplement intake accordingly.
What are the benefits of taking iron supplements during pregnancy?
Iron supplements are essential for pregnant women as they help in promoting healthy fetal development and preventing maternal anemia. The benefits of taking iron supplements during pregnancy include:
1. Preventing anemia: Iron helps in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body's tissues. During pregnancy, the body needs more iron to support the growth and development of the fetus. Iron supplements can help prevent anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other complications.
2. Reducing the risk of preterm birth: Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and infant mortality. Taking iron supplements can reduce the risk of these complications.
3. Improving cognitive development: Iron is essential for cognitive development, and studies have shown that children born to mothers who took iron supplements during pregnancy have better cognitive development and higher IQ scores.
4. Supporting the immune system: Iron plays a crucial role in the immune system's functioning, and taking iron supplements during pregnancy can help support the immune system.
In conclusion, taking iron supplements during pregnancy is crucial for promoting healthy fetal development and preventing maternal anemia. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements during pregnancy.
What are the best types of iron supplements for pregnancy?
Iron is an essential mineral for pregnant women as it aids in the formation of red blood cells and helps carry oxygen to the developing fetus. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to consume an adequate amount of iron through their diet or supplements.
The best types of iron supplements for pregnancy are those that provide a high amount of elemental iron, which is the amount of iron that is actually absorbed by the body. Ferrous sulfate is the most common and recommended form of iron supplement for pregnant women due to its high elemental iron content and cost-effectiveness. Other forms of iron supplements include ferrous gluconate, ferrous fumarate, and heme iron polypeptide.
It is important to note that taking iron supplements can cause constipation and other gastrointestinal side effects. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It is also important to take iron supplements with vitamin C to enhance iron absorption and to avoid taking them with calcium-rich foods or supplements as they can inhibit iron absorption.
