Vegan Iron Supplement Review: A Comprehensive Solution For Plant-Based Iron Needs

As a vegan, ensuring that I get enough iron in my diet is crucial for maintaining optimal health. I recently decided to try a vegan iron supplement to help me meet my daily iron requirements. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the product and delve into the research behind vegan iron supplements.

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Vegan Supplements

What is a Vegan Iron Supplement?

A vegan iron supplement is a plant-based iron source specifically designed for vegans and vegetarians who may have difficulty getting enough iron from their diet alone. These supplements provide a convenient way to increase iron intake without the need for animal-derived sources.

My Experience with Vegan Iron Supplement

I have been using a vegan iron supplement for several months now and have noticed improvements in my energy levels and overall well-being. I no longer experience fatigue or weakness, which I sometimes felt before starting the supplement. The vegan iron supplement is easy to incorporate into my daily routine, and I appreciate that it is designed specifically for those following a plant-based diet.

The Science Behind Vegan Iron Supplements

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function[^1^]. There are two types of dietary iron: heme iron, found in animal products, and non-heme iron, found in plant foods. Vegans and vegetarians primarily consume non-heme iron, which has a lower bioavailability than heme iron[^2^]. This means that vegans and vegetarians may need to consume more iron than their omnivorous counterparts to meet their daily requirements[^3^].

Vegan iron supplements typically contain non-heme iron in the form of ferrous bisglycinate, ferrous sulfate, or ferrous gluconate, which have been shown to be effective in increasing iron levels[^4^]. Some vegan iron supplements also include vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption[^5^].

Best Vegan Iron Supplements on the Market

Here are some of the best vegan iron supplements available, known for their quality, effectiveness, and safety:

Garden of Life Vitamin Code RAW Iron: This supplement contains 22 mg of whole-food iron derived from organic plant sources, along with vitamin C, B12, and folate to support iron absorption and overall health[^22^].
Floradix Iron + Herbs: Floradix offers a liquid iron supplement that contains ferrous gluconate, a highly bioavailable form of iron, along with B vitamins and herbal extracts for improved absorption and digestive comfort[^23^].
MegaFood Blood Builder: This whole-food iron supplement contains 26 mg of iron derived from beetroot, along with vitamin C, B12, and folate to support iron absorption and overall health[^24^].
Solgar Gentle Iron: Solgar’s Gentle Iron contains 25 mg of iron bisglycinate, a chelated form of iron that is less likely to cause digestive side effects and is more easily absorbed by the body[^25^].
Deva Vegan Iron Supplement: Deva’s iron supplement contains 29 mg of ferrous fumarate, a well-absorbed form of iron, along with vitamin B12 and folic acid to support overall health and iron absorption[^26^].

Best Iron Supplement for Vegans: Factors to Consider

When choosing the best iron supplement for vegans, there are several factors to consider, such as:

Form: Iron supplements come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. Choose the form that best suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Dosage: The recommended daily intake of iron varies depending on age, gender, and life stage. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.
Absorption: Look for supplements that contain vitamin C or other absorption-enhancing ingredients to increase the bioavailability of non-heme iron.
Quality: Choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality, vegan-friendly ingredients and has good manufacturing practices.
Price: Compare prices and consider the cost per serving to find an affordable option that meets your requirements.

How to Get Enough Iron as a Vegetarian or Vegan

In addition to taking a vegan iron supplement, it’s essential to include iron-rich plant foods in your diet. Some excellent plant-based sources of iron include:

Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
Tofu and tempeh
Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, fortified cereals)
Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds)

To enhance iron absorption, pair these plant-based sources with foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and tomatoes[^5^].

Different Types of Vegan Iron Supplements

There are various types of vegan iron supplements available on the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Some of the most popular types include:

1. Ferrous Bisglycinate

Ferrous bisglycinate is a chelated form of iron that has been shown to have better absorption rates and cause fewer side effects compared to other iron supplements[^6^]. This form of iron is less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues such as constipation or nausea, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

2. Ferrous Sulfate

Ferrous sulfate is a widely used iron supplement due to its high iron content and affordability. While it is effective in increasing iron levels, it may cause more gastrointestinal side effects than other forms of iron[^7^].

3. Ferrous Gluconate

Ferrous gluconate is another common form of iron supplement. It has a lower iron content compared to ferrous sulfate, which may result in fewer gastrointestinal side effects. However, it may require a higher dosage to achieve the desired iron levels[^8^].

4. Iron Polysaccharide Complex

Iron polysaccharide complex is a newer form of iron supplement that combines iron with a polysaccharide matrix. This form of iron is believed to have better absorption and fewer side effects compared to other forms, but more research is needed to confirm these claims[^9^].

The Importance of Iron for Various Groups of People

Iron is a crucial nutrient for people of all ages and backgrounds. However, some groups of people may have a higher risk of developing iron deficiency and may benefit from vegan iron supplementation. These groups include:

1. Pregnant Women

Pregnant women require more iron to support the growth and development of the fetus, as well as to compensate for the increased blood volume during pregnancy[^10^]. Vegan and vegetarian pregnant women should pay particular attention to their iron intake and consider supplementation if necessary.

2. Athletes

Endurance athletes, particularly female athletes, may require more iron due to increased red blood cell production and potential iron loss through sweat[^11^]. A vegan iron supplement can help athletes maintain adequate iron levels and optimize performance.

3. Women with Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding may lose significant amounts of iron each month, leading to a higher risk of iron deficiency[^12^]. A vegan iron supplement can help replenish iron levels and minimize the risk of anemia.

4. Individuals with Gastrointestinal Disorders

People with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease, may have difficulty absorbing iron from their diet, increasing their risk of iron deficiency[^13^]. Vegan iron supplements can help improve iron status in these individuals.

Potential Side Effects of Vegan Iron Supplements

While vegan iron supplements are generally safe, they can cause side effects in some people. Some potential side effects include:

Gastrointestinal issues: Iron supplements can cause constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and can be minimized by taking the supplement with food or choosing a form of iron that is less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues, such as ferrous bisglycinate[^6^].
Interactions with other medications: Iron supplements can interact with certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, thyroid medications, and antacids, reducing their effectiveness[^14^]. If you are taking any of these medications, consult your healthcare provider before starting a vegan iron supplement.
Iron overload: Taking excessive amounts of iron can lead to iron overload, a condition known as hemochromatosis. This can cause damage to organs such as the liver, heart, and pancreas, as well as joint pain and other symptoms[^15^]. To minimize the risk of iron overload, it is important to follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting a vegan iron supplement.
Allergic reactions: Though rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to vegan iron supplements. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, rash, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention[^16^].

Tips for Maximizing Iron Absorption

To get the most out of your vegan iron supplement, consider the following tips to maximize iron absorption:

Combine with vitamin C: Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron, the type of iron found in plant-based sources and supplements[^17^]. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods or supplements with your vegan iron supplement can help improve absorption.
Avoid calcium-rich foods or supplements: Calcium can inhibit the absorption of iron[^18^]. To maximize iron absorption, avoid consuming calcium-rich foods or supplements within two hours of taking your vegan iron supplement.
Limit tannin and phytate consumption: Tannins, found in tea and coffee, and phytates, found in legumes and whole grains, can inhibit iron absorption[^19^]. Limit your consumption of these foods and beverages around the time you take your iron supplement to ensure optimal absorption.
Follow a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains can help maintain adequate iron levels and support overall health. Including a variety of iron-rich plant-based foods in your diet, such as lentils, beans, tofu, and fortified cereals, can help maintain optimal iron levels[^20^].

Conclusion

Vegan iron supplements are an effective way to maintain adequate iron levels for those following a plant-based diet or who are at risk of iron deficiency. By understanding the different types of vegan iron supplements, their benefits, potential side effects, and strategies for maximizing absorption, you can choose the best supplement for your individual needs and support optimal health.

References:

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2021). Iron. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
Pawlak, R., Lester, S. E., & Babatunde, T. (2014). The prevalence of cobalamin deficiency among vegetarians assessed by serum vitamin B12: a review of literature. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 68(5), 541-548. https://doi.org/10.1038/ejcn.2014.46
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2021). Iron: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/#en3
World Health Organization. (2001). Iron Deficiency Anemia: Assessment, Prevention, and Control. A Guide for Programme Managers. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/en/ida_assessment_prevention_control.pdf
Lane, D. J. R., & Richardson, D. R. (2014). The active role of vitamin C in mammalian iron metabolism: much more than just enhanced iron absorption! Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 75, 69-83. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2014.07.007
Hurrell, R., & Egli, I. (2010). Iron bioavailability and dietary reference values. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 91(5), 1461S-1467S. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.2010.28674F