The 13 Best Iron Supplements of 2023, According to Dietitians

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Our dietitian narrowed down the best iron supplements on the market, evaluating ingredient quality, iron type, and price. Top picks include Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, and Klaire Labs.

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A quick look at the best iron supplements

• Best overall:Thorne Iron Bisglycinate | Skip to Review
• Best multivitamin with iron:Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+ | Skip to Review
• Best with vitamin C:Pure Encapsulations OptiFerin-C | Skip to Review
• Best vegan:MegaFood Blood Builder | Skip to Review
• Best vegan with vitamin C:Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron | Skip to Review
• Best vegetarian:NOW Iron | Skip to Review
• Best affordable:Nature Made Iron 65mg Tablets | Skip to Review
• Best subscriptions:
  • Care/of Iron | Skip to Review
  • Persona Iron with Vitamin C | Skip to Review
• Best chewable:Klaire Labs Chewable Iron Chelate | Skip to Review
• Best for sensitive stomachs:Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid | Skip to Review
• Best liquid:NOW Liquid Iron | Skip to Review
• Best prenatal with iron:Thorne Basic Prenatal | Skip to Review

Iron is a mineral necessary for many essential bodily processes.

Some people may have inadequate iron intake or impaired iron absorption. Plus, others have increased iron needs. As a result, they may be at risk for iron deficiency, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and weakness.

Populations at risk for developing iron deficiency include:

• infants and kids
• athletes
• people with heavy menstrual bleeding
• pregnant people
• anyone with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders or cancer
• anyone who frequently donates blood

If you require supplemental iron, there are plenty of high quality iron products available that can help replenish your iron stores.

Healthline’s picks of the best iron supplements

A note on price

General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher price range.

Generally, prices range from $0.04 to $0.86 per serving or $10.35–42.99 per container, though this may vary depending on where you shop.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $0.20 per serving
• $$ = $0.20–$0.40 per serving
• $$$ = over $0.40 per serving

Was this helpful?

Best overall

Thorne Iron Bisglycinate Capsules

4.5(40+) from Thorne

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:60 per container

$13 AT OPTUM STORE

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

While there are many products to choose from, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is one of the best overall iron supplements, as it’s an iron-only supplement that’s an excellent choice for treating low iron stores and is made by one of the most reputable supplement brands.

What’s more, each capsule packs 139% of the Daily Value (DV) for iron in the form of ferrous bisglycinate chelate — a type of iron that’s easy for your body to absorb and less likely to cause GI side effects than other forms of iron, such as ferrous sulfate.

The product is also NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it’s free of substances that have been banned by most sports organizations and is therefore safe for athletes.

Additionally, Thorne’s facilities are verified by multiple international third-party organizations, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration, a regulatory agency run by the Australian Government Department of Health.

Pros & cons

• third-party verified
• trusted by healthcare professionals
• NSF Certified for Sport
• gluten-free
• free of artificial colors and flavors
• less likely to cause GI side effects

• can be difficult to find at local stores
• not suitable for people following a vegan diet

• third-party verified
• trusted by healthcare professionals
• NSF Certified for Sport
• gluten-free
• free of artificial colors and flavors
• less likely to cause GI side effects

• can be difficult to find at local stores
• not suitable for people following a vegan diet

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):Ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate chelate 25mg (139% DV)
• Certifications:NSF Certified for Sport
• Returns:free returns within 45 days
• Shipping:free shipping on orders over $50+

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):Ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate chelate 25mg (139% DV)
• Certifications:NSF Certified for Sport
• Returns:free returns within 45 days
• Shipping:free shipping on orders over $50+

Best multivitamin with iron

Ritual Essential for Women 18+ Multivitamin

4.2(360+) from Ritual

• Form:capsule
• Number of servings:30 per bottle
• Dose:2 capsules per day
• Discount:Use code HEALTHLINE for 25% off

$33.00 AT RITUAL

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+ is designed for people looking to help fill gaps in their diets.

Specifically, the mint-scented capsules contain iron bisglycinate, which may be easier to absorb and cause less GI distress than other types of iron.

The supplement also includes several nutrients that you may have difficulty getting enough of from food alone, such as:

• vitamin D
• docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
• folate

Unlike many other multivitamins, it doesn’t contain calcium, which can interfere with iron absorption.

Just keep in mind that while the multivitamin is vegan-friendly, it lacks several nutrients that people following a vegan diet might not get enough of, including iodine and zinc.

It’s also low in magnesium and doesn’t contain vitamin C or many B vitamins other than folate and B12.

Pros & cons

• free of gluten and major allergens
• vegan-friendly
• also contains vitamin D, DHA, and folate
• easily absorbed form of iron
• third-party tested

• not a comprehensive multivitamin — missing several key nutrients
• covers only 44% of iron needs, which may not be enough for some people with low iron

• free of gluten and major allergens
• vegan-friendly
• also contains vitamin D, DHA, and folate
• easily absorbed form of iron
• third-party tested

• not a comprehensive multivitamin — missing several key nutrients
• covers only 44% of iron needs, which may not be enough for some people with low iron

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin D3 50 mcg (250% DV), vitamin E 6.7 mg (45% DV), folate 1,000 mcg DFE (250% DV), vitamin B12 8 mcg (333% DV), iron 8 mg (44% DV), magnesium 30 mg (7% DV), boron 0.7 mg, omega-3 DHA 330 mg, vitamin K2 90 mcg
• Certifications:USP verified, non-GMO verified, Made Traceable

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin D3 50 mcg (250% DV), vitamin E 6.7 mg (45% DV), folate 1,000 mcg DFE (250% DV), vitamin B12 8 mcg (333% DV), iron 8 mg (44% DV), magnesium 30 mg (7% DV), boron 0.7 mg, omega-3 DHA 330 mg, vitamin K2 90 mcg
• Certifications:USP verified, non-GMO verified, Made Traceable

Best iron supplement with vitamin C

Pure Encapsulations OptiFerin-C Capsules

4.6(1.1k+) from Amazon

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:60 per container

$21.02 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Pure Encapsulations OptiFerin-C contains 28 mg of iron bisglycinate plus 100 mg of vitamin C.

Vitamin C is often added to iron supplements because it may help improve absorption.

The supplement is:

• kosher
• vegan-friendly
• free of gluten, soy, and dairy

It’s also produced in a CGMP-certified facility.

products exceed the quality and purity standards set by USP.

According to the company’s website, Pure Encapsulations products are tested by third-party laboratories, including:

• Silliker
• Eurofins
• Intertek
• Advanced Laboratories

Pros & cons

• high quality standards
• third-party tested
• certified gluten-free
• non-GMO verified
• vegan
• contains vitamin C

• may be difficult to find at local stores

• high quality standards
• third-party tested
• certified gluten-free
• non-GMO verified
• vegan
• contains vitamin C

• may be difficult to find at local stores

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 100mg (111% DV),
  calcium 11mg (1% DV),
  iron bisglycinate 28mg (165% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 100mg (111% DV),
  calcium 11mg (1% DV),
  iron bisglycinate 28mg (165% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free

Best vegan iron supplement

MegaFood Blood Builder Capsules

4.8(400+) from MegaFood

• Form:tablet
• Dose:1 tablet per day
• Number of servings:30 per container

$17.99 AT MEGAFOOD

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

MegaFood Blood Builder provides 26 milligrams (mg) of iron in the form of iron bisglycinate, as well as 15 mg of vitamin C for improved absorption.

The product also offers folate and B12, both of which are important for maintaining healthy blood cells.

MegaFood supplements hold third-party certifications, including Certified B Corporation, Certified Glyphosate Residue Free, and Non-GMO Project Verified.

Some of their supplements are Certified USDA Organic, Certified Vegan, and Certified Kosher. For example, MegaFood Blood Builder is Certified Vegan and Non-GMO. The supplement is also tested for over 125 pesticides in MegaFoods in-house laboratory.

However, keep in mind that the products aren’t third-party tested for quality or potency.

Pros & cons

• NSF-certified gluten-free
• non-GMO verified
• certified vegan
• third party-verified glyphosate residue-free

• expensive
• not third-party tested for accuracy

• NSF-certified gluten-free
• non-GMO verified
• certified vegan
• third party-verified glyphosate residue-free

• expensive
• not third-party tested for accuracy

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 15 mg (17% DV),
  folic acid 680 mcg (170% DV),
  vitamin B12 30 mcg (1250% DV),
  iron bisglycinate 26mg (144% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free, certified vegan, glyphosate residue-free

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 15 mg (17% DV),
  folic acid 680 mcg (170% DV),
  vitamin B12 30 mcg (1250% DV),
  iron bisglycinate 26mg (144% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free, certified vegan, glyphosate residue-free

Best vegan iron supplement with vitamin C

Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron Capsules

4.7(7.3k+) from Amazon

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:30 per container

$16.15 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron provides 22 mg of whole food iron and 25 mg of vitamin C.

The term “whole food iron” means that the iron comes from raw-food-created nutrients.

It also says that the supplement is produced without:

• high heat
• synthetic binders or fillers
• artificial flavors
• sweeteners
• colors
• additives

Additionally, the product contains an organic fruit and vegetable blend, as well as a probiotic and enzyme blend to support digestion.

All Garden of Life products are manufactured in an FDA-certified facility. This supplement is also:

• certified vegan
• non-GMO
• kosher
• raw
• gluten-free

Pros & cons

• contains vitamin C
• manufactured in an FDA-certified facility
• non-GMO verified
• certified gluten-free
• certified vegan-friendly

• expensive
• not third-party tested for purity and accuracy

• contains vitamin C
• manufactured in an FDA-certified facility
• non-GMO verified
• certified gluten-free
• certified vegan-friendly

• expensive
• not third-party tested for purity and accuracy

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 25 mg (28% DV),
  Folate 400 mg (100% DV),
  vitamin B12 500 mcg (20833% DV),
  iron (brown rice chelate) 22 mg (122% DV)
• Certifications:certified vegan, certified gluten-free, non-GMO

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 25 mg (28% DV),
  Folate 400 mg (100% DV),
  vitamin B12 500 mcg (20833% DV),
  iron (brown rice chelate) 22 mg (122% DV)
• Certifications:certified vegan, certified gluten-free, non-GMO

Best vegetarian iron supplement

NOW Iron 18 mg Capsules

4.6(4.2k+) from Amazon

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:120 per container

$12.99 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

NOW is known for offering high quality products at affordable prices.

This supplement provides 18 mg of iron per capsule in the form of iron bisglycinate chelate. And each bottle packs 120 capsules.

The product is also manufactured in facilities that are certified by UL Solutions, a third-party testing organization that ensures products are produced according to rigorous safety standards.

It’s also:

• certified kosher
• halal
• non-GMO

While this product is made without gluten or major allergens, NOW supplements are produced in facilities where cross contamination may occur.

Pros & cons

• manufactured in UL Solutions-certified facilities
• may be easier to find in local stores
• affordable
• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested for purity or potency
• not suitable for those with severe food allergies or intolerances

• manufactured in UL Solutions-certified facilities
• may be easier to find in local stores
• affordable
• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested for purity or potency
• not suitable for those with severe food allergies or intolerances

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):Ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO
• Returns:free returns for Prime members
• Shipping:free shipping for Prime members

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):Ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO
• Returns:free returns for Prime members
• Shipping:free shipping for Prime members

Best affordable iron supplement

Nature Made Iron 65mg Tablets

4.5(39+) from CVS

• Form:tablet
• Dose:1 tablet per day
• Number of servings:180 per container

$17.49 AT NATURE MADE

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Nature Made boasts 65 mg of iron per capsule — that’s 361% of the DV for iron, or the equivalent of 325 mg of ferrous sulfate.

Ferrous sulfate is a common form of supplemental iron with high solubility, meaning that it releases iron ions faster and is therefore easier to absorb.

However, this form of iron is more likely than other forms to cause GI side effects such as constipation.

The product is verified by United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a third-party organization that tests for aspects of quality such as:

• purity
• potency
• performance

Pros & cons

• third-party tested
• affordable
• provides a higher dose of iron
• gluten-free
• no artificial flavors or colors

• may cause GI side effects such as constipation
• not suitable for those following a vegan diet

• third-party tested
• affordable
• provides a higher dose of iron
• gluten-free
• no artificial flavors or colors

• may cause GI side effects such as constipation
• not suitable for those following a vegan diet

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferrous sulfate 65 mg (361% DV)
• Certifications:USP verified

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferrous sulfate 65 mg (361% DV)
• Certifications:USP verified

Best subscription-based iron supplements

Care/of Iron

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:30 per container

$7.00 AT CAREOF

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Care/of is a subscription vitamin service that allows you to take a quiz to personalize the vitamins and supplements you receive.

One of the supplements the brand offers is an iron supplement.

The supplement contains 18 mg of iron as ferrous bisglycinate chelate, which is less likely to cause GI symptoms such as constipation than other iron forms such as ferrous sulfate.

The supplement is also:

• vegan
• gluten-free
• non-GMO
• formulated with vitamin C for easier absorption

Pros & cons

• vegan
• gluten-free
• non-GMO
• contains vitamin C

• requires a subscription

• vegan
• gluten-free
• non-GMO
• contains vitamin C

• requires a subscription

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 30 mg (33% DV), ferrous bisglycinate chelate 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 30 mg (33% DV), ferrous bisglycinate chelate 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

Persona Iron with Vitamin C

• Form:capsule
• Dose:1 capsule per day
• Number of servings:28 per container

$8.68 AT PERSONA

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Persona is another personalized subscription service that asks users to take a quiz and sends out vitamins and supplements that cater to their individual needs.

Persona offers an iron supplement that’s formulated to be absorbed easily and gentle on the stomach.

It contains 18 mg of iron as ferronyl and includes vitamin C for absorption.

While the supplement is free of gluten and major allergens, it’s produced in a facility where cross contamination may occur. Therefore, it’s not ideal for those with severe food allergies or sensitivities.

Pros & cons

• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested
• may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies or sensitivities

• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested
• may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies or sensitivities

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 250mg (278% DV), iron Ferronyl 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin C 250mg (278% DV), iron Ferronyl 18 mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

Best chewable iron supplement

Klaire Labs Chewable Iron Chelate

4.2(70+) from Amazon

• Form:chewable tablet
• Dose:1 tablet per day
• Number of servings:100 per container

$29.99 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Much like liquid supplements, chewable supplements are a convenient and tasty way to take your vitamins and minerals.

Klaire Labs Chewable Iron Chelate provides 30 mg of elemental iron as ferrochel ferric trisglycinate chelate, which is a highly absorbable form of iron.

The tablets have a natural cherry flavor and contain less added sugar than many other chewable supplements on the market.

Klaire Labs supplements are manufactured in CGMP-certified facilities.

Pros & cons

• good choice if you can’t tolerate liquids or pills
• free from major allergens
• free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested
• expensive

• good choice if you can’t tolerate liquids or pills
• free from major allergens
• free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
• non-GMO
• vegetarian-friendly

• not third-party tested
• expensive

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric trisglycinate chelate 30 mg (167% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric trisglycinate chelate 30 mg (167% DV)
• Certifications:non-GMO

Best iron supplement for sensitive stomachs

Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid

4.5(208+) from Amazon

• Form:liquid
• Dose:1 teaspoon (5 mL) per day
• Number of servings:24 per container

$35.30 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid provides 15 mg of iron per 1-teaspoon (5-milliliter [mL]) serving in the form of SunActive Fe, a form of iron with high bioavailability that’s well tolerated and doesn’t cause GI issues.

This makes Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid a good alternative for people who experience GI side effects such as constipation when taking iron salts.

It also contains a blend of cranberry and wild blueberry extract, which is meant to provide antioxidant support.

This product exceeds standards set by USP and is tested by third-party laboratories for quality and purity. It’s also gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid is sweetened with apple juice concentrate and flavored with natural pomegranate flavor.

Pros & cons

• gluten-free
• vegetarian-friendly
• good option for those who can’t tolerate iron salts
• third-party tested

• no information regarding nutrition breakdown, including sugars
• expensive

• gluten-free
• vegetarian-friendly
• good option for those who can’t tolerate iron salts
• third-party tested

• no information regarding nutrition breakdown, including sugars
• expensive

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric pyrophosphate 15 mg (83% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric pyrophosphate 15 mg (83% DV)
• Certifications:certified gluten-free

Best liquid iron supplements

NOW Liquid Iron

4.4(700+) from Amazon

• Form:liquid
• Dose:2 teaspoons (10 mL) per day
• Number of servings:24 per container

$19.99 AT AMAZON

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

For those who don’t like to swallow capsules or take chewable supplements, liquid iron products are the way to go.

NOW Liquid Iron provides 18 mg of iron as ferric glycinate, a gentle form of iron that’s less likely to cause constipation than other types of iron, such as ferrous sulfate.

Unlike many other liquid iron supplements, NOW Liquid Iron contains zero added sugars. Instead, it’s sweetened with the sugar alcohol xylitol, so it’s a good choice for those who are managing their blood sugar levels, such as people with diabetes.

Just keep in mind that consuming large amounts of xylitol can cause GI side effects, including gas and bloating. Therefore, this product may not be ideal if you regularly consume xylitol-containing foods and beverages.

NOW Liquid Iron is manufactured in UL Solutions-certified facilities and certified kosher, halal, and non-GMO.

Pros & cons

• good choice if you can’t tolerate pills or chewable tablets
• manufactured in third-party certified facilities
• inexpensive

• not suitable for people with severe food allergies
• contains xylitol, which some people may prefer to avoid
• not third-party tested for purity and potency

• good choice if you can’t tolerate pills or chewable tablets
• manufactured in third-party certified facilities
• inexpensive

• not suitable for people with severe food allergies
• contains xylitol, which some people may prefer to avoid
• not third-party tested for purity and potency

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric glycinate 18mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:certified kosher

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):ferric glycinate 18mg (100% DV)
• Certifications:certified kosher

Best prenatal with iron

Thorne Basic Prenatal

4.6(4.4k+) from Amazon

• Form:capsule
• Dose:3 capsules per day
• Number of servings:30 per container

$29.00 AT OPTUM STORE

*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.

Healthline’s review

Although Thorne Basic Prenatal is designed for people who are pregnant or nursing, it can also be used for anyone looking for a multivitamin that contains more than 100% of their daily iron needs.

This prenatal supplement provides 167% of the DV for iron in the highly bioavailable form of ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate chelate. It also contains many other nutrients important for women’s health, including:

• vitamin C
• zinc
• folate
• iodine
• selenium
• vitamins B6, B12, and D

Thorne Basic Prenatal is a well-rounded multivitamin that’s appropriate for women of reproductive age who need extra iron in their diets.

Pros & cons

• trusted by healthcare professionals
• gluten-free
• free of artificial colors and flavors
• contains a range of nutrients critical for women’s health

• can be difficult to find at local stores
• designed for women with higher nutrient needs and may not be appropriate for all women

• trusted by healthcare professionals
• gluten-free
• free of artificial colors and flavors
• contains a range of nutrients critical for women’s health

• can be difficult to find at local stores
• designed for women with higher nutrient needs and may not be appropriate for all women

Product details

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin A 1.05 mg (81% DV), vitamin C 150 mg (125% DV), vitamin D3 25 mcg (167% DV), vitamin E 33.5 mg (176% DV), vitamin K 100 mcg (111% DV), thiamin 5 mg (357% DV), riboflavin 5 mg (313% DV), niacin 30 mg (167% DV), vitamin B6 12 mg (600% DV), folate 1.7 mg DFE (283% DV), vitamin B12 200 mcg (7142% DV), biotin 50 mcg (143% DV), pantothenic acid 18 mg (257% DV), choline 110 mg (20% DV), calcium 180 mg (14% DV), iron 45 mg (167% DV), magnesium 90 mg (23% DV), zinc 25 mg (192% DV), selenium 50 mcg (71% DV), copper 2 mg (154% DV), manganese 5 mg (192% DV), chromium 100 mcg (222% DV), boron 1 mg
• Certifications:gluten-free

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength):vitamin A 1.05 mg (81% DV), vitamin C 150 mg (125% DV), vitamin D3 25 mcg (167% DV), vitamin E 33.5 mg (176% DV), vitamin K 100 mcg (111% DV), thiamin 5 mg (357% DV), riboflavin 5 mg (313% DV), niacin 30 mg (167% DV), vitamin B6 12 mg (600% DV), folate 1.7 mg DFE (283% DV), vitamin B12 200 mcg (7142% DV), biotin 50 mcg (143% DV), pantothenic acid 18 mg (257% DV), choline 110 mg (20% DV), calcium 180 mg (14% DV), iron 45 mg (167% DV), magnesium 90 mg (23% DV), zinc 25 mg (192% DV), selenium 50 mcg (71% DV), copper 2 mg (154% DV), manganese 5 mg (192% DV), chromium 100 mcg (222% DV), boron 1 mg
• Certifications:gluten-free

A comparison of the best iron supplements

Here’s a quick look at how our top picks compare:

Product and
price rangeDose and
% of the DVType of ironThird-party testedThorne Iron Bisglycinate
$$1 capsule
139%ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate chelateyesRitual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+
$$$2 capsules
44%iron bisglycinateyesPure Encapsulations OptiFerin-C
$$1 capsule
165%iron bisglycinateyesMegaFood Blood Builder
$$$1 tablet
144%iron bisglycinatenoGarden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Iron
$$$1 capsule
122%brown rice chelatenoNOW Iron
$1 capsule
100%ferrochel ferrous bisglycinatenoNature Made Iron
$1 tablet
361%ferrous sulfateyesCare/of Iron
$1 capsule
100%ferrous bisglycinate chelateyesPersona Iron with Vitamin C
$$1 capsule
100%iron ferronylnoKlaire Labs Chewable Iron Chelate
$$1 chewable
167%ferrochel ferric trisglycinate chelatenoPure Encapsulations Iron Liquid
$$$1 tsp
83%ferric pyrophosphateyesNOW Liquid Iron
$$2 tsp
100%ferric glycinatenoThorne Basic Prenatal
$$$3 capsules
167%ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate chelateyes

How we chose the best iron supplements

This article examines iron supplements based on the following criteria:

• Quality: The iron supplements are tested for quality and purity, ideally by a third-party organization.
• Iron type: The supplements contain easily absorbed forms of iron.
• Other nutrients: The supplements are free of nutrients that impair iron absorption and may contain nutrients that enhance absorption.
• Dose: The supplements contain an effective dose of iron.
• Price: We included products to suit a variety of budgets.

Why you can trust us

Every brand and product on our list has been vetted to ensure that it aligns with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. Each product in this article:

• adheres to allowable health claims and labeling requirements per Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations
• is manufactured in facilities that adhere to the current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) established by the FDA
• is produced by a medically credible company that follows ethical, legal, and industry best standards
• is made by a company that provides objective measures of trust, such as having its supplements validated by third-party labs

Was this helpful?

Why is iron important?

Iron is a mineral present in:

• Hemoglobin: a protein that transports oxygen from your lungs to your tissues
• Myoglobin: another protein that carries and stores oxygen for your muscles

Iron is also essential for:

• brain cell development
• physical growth
• hormone synthesis
• muscle metabolism

In order to support these important processes, your body needs a steady supply of iron from your diet.

Iron exists in two forms in nature:

• Heme iron: a form of iron that is found in animal-derived foods and is more readily absorbed by the human body
• Non-heme iron: a form of iron that is found in plant-based and iron-fortified foods and is not as well absorbed as heme iron

You can also take iron in supplement form. Iron supplements may be necessary for those who don’t get enough iron in their diet and those who have increased iron needs.

Types of iron

For those who need an iron supplement, choosing the right product can seem overwhelming because so many different types of iron supplements are available.

The most popular types are ferrous and ferric iron salts, which include:

• ferric sulfate
• ferrous gluconate
• ferrous sulfate
• ferric citrate

Because of its higher solubility, ferrous iron tends to be more bioavailable than ferric iron, which means it’s easier for your body to absorb.

You may also find other forms of iron, such as:

• heme iron polypeptides
• carbonyl iron
• iron amino acid chelates
• polysaccharide-iron complexes

Some forms of iron, such as ferrous sulfate, are more likely to cause GI disturbances, including constipation, than other forms, such as iron bisglycinate chelate.

FormBioavailabilityAffordabilitySide effects Iron bisglycinate chelate Highly absorbable A bit more expensive compared to other forms of ironMinimal gastrointestinal side effects compared to ferrous sulfateFerrous sulfateWell-absorbedInexpensiveMay cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation in high dosesFerric sulfateLess bioavailable than iron bisglycinate chelate and ferrous sulfate InexpensiveMay cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation in high dosesFerrous fumarate Well-absorbedInexpensiveMay cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation in high doses

Who should take iron supplements?

People with adequate iron stores should aim to meet their iron needs through foods rather than supplements.

However, you might need an iron supplement if you:

• are treating an existing iron deficiency
• have low iron stores
• are trying to maintain healthy iron levels

Populations that may benefit from an iron supplement include:

• infants and kids
• pregnant people
• people with heavy menstrual bleeding
• people with certain forms of cancer, such as colon cancer
• people with GI disorders such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease
• people with heart failure
• people who frequently donate blood
• athletes

Health experts do not recommend giving an iron supplement to your child unless a healthcare professional directs you to do so. Children are more susceptible to iron toxicity than adults.

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Some people with iron deficiency anemia may need iron infusions if:

• they do not respond to oral iron
• their bodies can’t properly absorb iron
• their iron losses are too great to be treated with oral supplements

Overall, it’s wise to talk with a healthcare professional to find out whether an iron supplement is right for you.

How to choose an iron supplement

It’s important to consider several factors when choosing an iron supplement, including the type of iron, provided dose, and product quality and safety.

Dosing

Talk with a healthcare professional about proper dosing.

Here are the current Recommended Dietary Allowances for iron in healthy teens and adults:

14–18 years19–50 years51+ years11 mg for males8 mg for males8 mg for males15 mg for females18 mg for females8 mg for females27 mg while pregnant27 mg while pregnant—10 mg while nursing9 mg while nursing—

Keep in mind that if you’re low on iron, you’ll need more iron than most other people need each day.

If you have low iron stores, have a deficiency, or need extra iron for any reason, a healthcare professional can recommend a dosage that fits your needs.

Product quality and safety

When shopping for an iron supplement, look for high quality products that have undergone third-party testing for quality and purity by credible organizations such as USP and NSF International.

It’s also important to choose products that are manufactured in facilities that adhere to the CGMPs established by the FDA.

How to take iron supplements

Iron deficiency anemia is typically treated with daily oral iron supplements for at least 3 months to replenish iron stores. For some people, healthcare professionals may recommend continuing to take iron supplements even after hemoglobin levels return to normal.

For those with iron deficiency, taking an iron-only supplement is a good idea because other nutrients commonly found in multivitamins, such as calcium, may inhibit iron absorption.

Additionally, it’s recommended to take iron supplements between meals and avoid pairing them with foods or beverages that may inhibit iron absorption, such as:

• tea
• coffee
• milk

Instead, it can be a good idea to take iron with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice or bell peppers, because it can help enhance iron absorption.

Potential side effects and safety concerns

Certain iron supplements are more likely to cause side effects than others. Also, iron can be toxic if taken in very high doses.

This is why it’s important to discuss proper dosing with a healthcare professional before starting to take iron supplements.

Potential side effects of taking iron supplements include:

• constipation
• diarrhea
• nausea
• abdominal pain

To reduce the risk of side effects and toxicity, it’s best to avoid exceeding the established Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for iron supplements unless a healthcare professional recommends it. These levels are as follows:

• 40 mg per day for babies and kids
• 45 mg per day for teens and adults

Finally, it’s important to keep iron supplements out of reach of children because children are more susceptible to iron toxicity than adults. Children may mistake iron supplements for candy and ingest large amounts, which can be fatal.

Drug interactions

Iron supplements may also interact with certain medications.

For example, iron supplements may reduce the absorption of medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease and may lower the effectiveness of levothyroxine, a common drug used to treat:

• hypothyroidism
• goiter
• thyroid cancer

On the other hand, some medications — such as proton pump inhibitors, which are used to treat acid reflux or stomach ulcers — can reduce iron absorption because they lower the secretion of gastric acid, which plays a key role in iron uptake.

When to see a doctor

Having too little iron in your body can cause symptoms such as:

• fatigue
• weakness
• difficulty concentrating
• shortness of breath

Some people are more at risk for developing iron deficiency anemia, including:

• people with heavy periods
• pregnant people
• people with medical conditions that cause malabsorption of nutrients

If you think you may have an iron deficiency, it’s important to visit a healthcare professional to get appropriate testing.

Do not try to treat an iron deficiency on your own. Even though most people respond well to oral iron supplements, some people may need iron infusions to effectively increase their iron levels.

Frequently asked questions

Do iron pills really work?

Yes, for most people. Oral iron supplements are usually the first choice for treating iron deficiency anemia.

However, some people with iron deficiency anemia may need iron infusions if:

• they don’t respond to oral iron
• they can’t properly absorb iron
• their iron losses are too large to be treated with oral iron supplements

What is the best form of iron supplement to take?

This depends on your specific health needs.

There are many forms of bioavailable iron on the market. The most popular ones are ferrous and ferric iron salts, which include:

• ferric sulfate
• ferrous gluconate
• ferrous sulfate
• ferric citrate

Certain types of iron, such as ferrous bisglycinate chelate, are less likely to cause GI symptoms such as constipation than other forms, like ferrous sulfate.

How can I boost my iron levels quickly?

It takes time to increase your iron levels, especially if your blood levels are low. If you have low iron, a healthcare professional can recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Generally, iron deficiency anemia is treated with daily oral iron supplements for at least 3 months in order to replenish tissue iron stores.

How much iron should I take in supplement form?

The amount of iron you may take will depend on your iron levels.

For people with iron deficiency, the typical recommendation is to take iron in divided daily doses to reach 100–200 mg of elemental iron per day.

However, research suggests that taking smaller doses of iron once daily and taking iron every other day may help improve absorption and tolerability.

Ask a healthcare professional for specific dosing instructions.

Never take high dose iron pills unless recommended and monitored by a healthcare professional.

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Is it OK to take iron supplements every day?

Yes, it can be OK for those who need it.

But most people do not need to take iron daily, and taking too much can lead to iron toxicity.

However, people who have chronically low iron stores or inadequate dietary iron intake may need to take a daily iron supplement to maintain optimal iron levels.

If you have questions about iron supplement dosing and how often you should be taking your iron supplement, reach out to a doctor for advice.

What can I take with iron supplements to avoid constipation?

There are a few ways you can avoid or ease constipation when taking iron supplements. You can try spreading the recommended dose into a few smaller doses throughout the day and staying hydrated.

It’s also a good idea to start by taking half the recommended dose and slowly increasing the amount over the course of a few days until you reach the recommended dose.

Additionally, consider the type of iron before purchasing a supplement. For example, ferrous sulfate is more likely to cause constipation than other forms, such as iron bisglycinate chelate.

If you’re still experiencing constipation, a stool softener may be helpful. Just be sure to talk with a healthcare professional before trying this.

Useful supplement shopping guides

Check out these two articles to help make supplement shopping a breeze:

• How to Choose High Quality Vitamins and Supplements
• How to Read Supplement Labels Like a Pro

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The bottom line

Iron is an important mineral that’s necessary for oxygen transport and the formation of healthy red blood cells.

While it’s always best to fulfill your iron needs through a diet high in iron-rich whole foods, supplements may sometimes be necessary to help you reach your daily iron needs.

Many types of iron supplements are available and contain varying doses and forms of the mineral.

Remember to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement and consider the factors mentioned above to help you choose a high quality product.

Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency