What is the Best Plant-Based Iron Supplement? Top Iron Supplements & Pills for Vegans in 2019
Iron is an essential mineral that your body needs to produce red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen and other nutrients throughout your entire body, and when you suffer from an iron deficiency, which is also known as anemia, this can lead to all kinds of problems. Problems include brittle hair and nails, an irregular heartbeat, a sore tongue, and cravings for clay or dirt.
While it’s possible to get iron naturally from food, people need to be careful as this might not be enough. This is especially true for vegans, who already risk many vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to their restricted diet. It’s a good idea for many people around the world to supplement their diet with iron, so they can fill any nutritional gaps that may exist and support their whole health.
In fact, iron is one of the most commonly occurring nutrient deficiencies in this country, and an estimated 10% of all American women are deficient in the mineral. All in all, it’s in your best interest to at least consider an iron supplement, and if you’re a vegan, you should make sure that the supplement you invest in is plant-based and won’t interfere with your diet. Luckily, there are many vegan iron supplements out there, which are safe to take and indeed effective.
Top 5 Vegan Iron Supplements
Features to Look For in an Iron Supplement
As you search for your perfect iron supplement, keep these features in mind as a guideline:
- Elemental iron. “Elemental iron” indicates the amount of iron within the supplement that can be absorbed. For example, you might see 300mg of iron advertised on the bottle, but the supplement actually offers 60mg of elemental iron, and this 60mg is all that your body can actually use. It’s important to consider this type of iron so you can ensure you’re getting everything you need, and to make sure you’re not getting too much.
- Potential side effects. As with anything, getting too much iron can be a bad thing. Iron supplements in particular are known for causing digestive issues like indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea–whether you take too much or not. If you’re worried about these effects, look for supplements that advertise “gentle iron.” These supplements will release the iron slowly and go easy on your stomach, which will lead to less issues. Or, you can begin with a very small dosage of iron to see how you react, then increase from there as you get a sense of how the supplement in particular impacts your body.
- Dosage. The last important factor to consider is how the supplement is dosed. Many people dislike having to take a supplement three or four times per day. Rather than having to fuss with drops alongside each meal, you may want to invest in a supplement that comes in an easy to swallow capsule or melting tablet that you can take just once a day. This is important to consider especially if you’re buying supplements for your children. Keeping on a regular schedule for supplementation is essential to prevent and treat deficiencies, so you need a product that fits your lifestyle.
The Best Vegan Iron Supplement List
① MegaFood Blood Builder Daily Iron Supplement and Multivitamin
MegaFood’s Blood Builder iron supplement also functions as a daily multivitamin. All you need to do is take one tablet per day anytime, even if you’re on an empty stomach, to get support for the production of your red blood cells and get an energy boost. You’ll get this without the typical constipation or nausea in this 90-day supply of supplements that are vegan, gluten free, certified B corp, free of soy and dairy, and non-GMO. In fact, they’ve been tested for more than 120 herbicides and pesticides, and it’s certified to be free of any glyphosate residue. MegaFood creates premium supplements that are full of nutrients and made from real food, pulled from trusted farms that share a commitment to organic choices. The Blood Builder was created using MegaFood’s Slo-Food Process, and it includes vitamin C from organic oranges to enhance iron absorption. With 26mg of FoodState iron per serving that’s delivered gently and effectively through whole foods, you’ll combat fatigue anytime. A simple ingredient list includes plant cellulose, vegetable lubricant, beet root, iron, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin C. Pros Cons
② Gala Herbs PlantForce Liquid Iron Supplement
This iron supplement from Gala Herbs is in a liquid form that tastes great, features a vegetarian herbal formula, and supports healthy levels of both iron and energy. As a vegetarian liquid iron supplement, it takes effect fast, is easy to absorb, and additionally is safe for breastfeeding and pregnant women to consume. It won’t cause any constipation and is only lightly sweetened with fruits like acerola and elderberry, as well as organic honey, which gives the supplement its great taste. Gala Herbs prides in its PlantForce supplement being completely plant-based, and it commits to only using ingredients that are non-GMO and don’t contain eggs, yeast, shellfish, sesame, peanuts, meat, dairy, soy, or gluten. Maintaining healthy iron levels will help you feel more vibrant and energetic, and PlantForce Liquid Iron is highly absorbable. It’s suggested that adults take 10ml twice per day, and the supplement is safe for children, but they should take the suggested dose just once a day. It’s best to ingest within thirty minutes before a meal.
Pros Cons
③ Solgar Gentle Iron Vegetable Capsules
These vegetable capsules from Solgar are meant to deliver the iron you need in a gentle way that’s easy on your digestive system and your entire body. You’ll get a supply of 180 capsules in a purchase, and each pill offers 25 mg of iron per serving. Just take one veggie cap a day to support your blood and energy. Preferably you should take it as you’re eating, however it’s best to follow the advice of your medical practitioner when you receive advice from them about the supplement. You can also feel reassured that you’re not putting anything harmful in your body, as these capsules don’t contain any preservatives, dairy, soy, wheat, yeast, corn, starch, salt, sugar, or artificial colors or flavors. Iron is an essential trace mineral that carries oxygen throughout your body and supports healthy blood, and it naturally supports women’s health. Solgar understands this and aims to give you a pure iron supplement that adheres to clean standards and takes using vegetarian formulations as a serious priority.
Pros Cons
④ EZ Melts Iron Fast Dissolve Tablets
With EZ Melts, you’ll get your iron supplementation in a unique way through their Iron Fast dissolve tablets. In each tablet, which dissolves within seconds, you’ll get 18 mg of iron as well as sublingual vitamins. The supplement doesn’t contain any sugar, features a natural orange flavor, and is completely vegan. Currently, it’s the only iron supplement on the market that melts and is delivered to your body fast, yet tastes great. It’s a great choice for people who need to fight off fatigue, and it was designed specifically for people who have anemia so they can find relief fast. On top of this, the melts are formulated with vitamin C, which helps your body absorb iron more effectively, as well as carbonyl iron for optimum effect and safety. Made here in the USA, these tablets are gluten free, non-GMO, and have only natural colors, sweeteners, and flavors. Take this if you need an all-natural mineral supplement to support your overall cell health, fast. Just take one tablet a day, no water required.
Pros Cons
⑤ Gloriously Vegan Mega Value Iron Supplement
Gloriously Vegan’s iron supplement aims to provide you with the best value possible, through these vegan capsules that offer 20 mg of iron per serving so you can support your cells and energy. For a great value, you’ll get an entire years’ supply in a single purchase, so you can just buy once and be done for a long time. The pills help to reduce any fatigue you’re feeling, boost the functioning of your immune system, and have a significant positive impact on your wellbeing. While the supplement can help anyone in general, it helps especially if you are iron deficient. Each tablet contains elemental iron that’s delivered in the form of Ferrous Fumarate, which covers 100% of your RDA with 63mg worth. If the supplement ends up not helping you, Gloriously Vegan offers a 100% money back guarantee and acknowledges that their iron supplement may cause an upset stomach. The company only produces products that are 100% vegan and adhere to high quality standards. For both vegetarians and vegans, this is an ideal source of iron. Take one tablet per day, ideally with a meal and alongside a source of vitamin C such as orange juice.
Pros Cons
⑥ Yuve Whole Food Chelated Iron Supplement
Yuve Whole Food’s iron supplement is chelated and offers 18mg of iron per serving. It was formulated to be absorbed as best as possible within your body, and supports healthy blood cells as well as heart health as it boosts your cognitive function and energy. Each capsule is vegan, gluten free, and non-GMO, as well as chemical free, and they don’t contain any artificial preservatives, sweeteners, or flavors, sugar, or sodium. Not only are they perfect for vegans, they’re great and safe enough for kids as well. Featuring a plant-based, all natural formula, the veggie pills promote brain and muscle function, assist with energy metabolism, and help you avoid iron deficiency. Low levels of red blood cells can lead to heart palpitations, paleness, and tiredness, and Yuve Whole Foods protects you against all of this. Its iron supplement balances optimal iron levels and helps transport oxygen throughout your body. With citrus bioflavonoids, which are potent antioxidants, you’ll get maximum absorption on top of additional immune support. The company holds up its claims with a money back guarantee.
Pros Cons
⑦ Garden of Life Raw Iron Whole Food Vitamin Supplement
This supplement from Garden of Life offers an entire iron complex in thirty vegan capsules that boost your iron absorption, support heart and blood health, increase your eye health, and boost both physical and mental energy. Each pill contains 22mg of whole food iron that’s gentle on your stomach and body and is slowly released, as well as folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin C, which work together to boost your body’s ability to absorb and use the iron. On top of all this, Garden of Life’s pills also provide you with a raw enzyme and probiotic blend, which supports your digestive system and prevents the typical upset stomach or constipation. This iron supplement is made from 23 raw vegetables and fruits, as well as natural food cofactors. It’s gluten free, dairy free, vegan, and raw, with zero fillers or binders. There was also no high heat or synthetic ingredients used during production. It’s easy to digest and even supports reproductive health. Simply take one capsule per day, with or without food.
Pros Cons
⑧ Renzo’s Iron Strong Dissolvable Vegan Vitamin for Kids
Renzo’s iron supplement was made specifically for kids. These tabs melt easily yet deliver a strong dosage of needed iron, all in a tasty flavor that’s sugar free. You’ll get 90 dissolvable tabs in each purchase that are easy on the stomach, vegan, gluten free, non-GMO, and use only natural sweeteners and flavors. You won’t risk any trips to the dentist, and the supplements are made in Renzo’s laboratory which is family owned and registered with the FDA. Taking these tabs involves no fuss and can be a fun activity for your kids to get the nutrients they need. In fact, your kids can play with the stickers that comes with each box. Although many adults worry about their iron levels, iron deficiency is one of the main deficiencies among children in the US. Renzo’s understands this, and has made their iron supplement with added vitamin C which maximizes iron’s effectiveness. It also uses carbonyl iron instead of ferrous sulfate, which has been known to negatively impact the stomach. It’ll absorb steadily and safely, and comes with a safety cap.
Pros Cons
⑨ Herb Lore Organic Iron Tonic for Women
This iron supplement from Herb Lore Organic was formulated specifically for women, and it’s safe for infants and children as well. It comes in a liquid form that’s easy to take and easy on the body; it won’t cause constipation and it provides complete anemia support. The organic supplement achieves results quickly to relieve fatigue, boost iron levels, and boost energy. Once you start taking it, you’ll notice a difference in your energy and wellbeing within the first week. Unlike other supplements, it prevents constipation instead of causing it, and it’s one of the few on the market that’s friendly for both infants and kids, as well as breastfeeding and pregnant mothers. It tastes sweet, mixes well with other drinks and foods, and doesn’t cause any harm whatsoever to babies but instead promotes their healthy growth. A four-ounce bottle will last you about a month, and it doesn’t contain any chemicals or GMOs. For best results, place a single drop directly underneath the tongue and avoid consuming any liquids or foods for fifteen minutes. Ingredients include herbs that naturally contain iron, such as dandelion root, yellow dock root, and nettle leaf.
Pros
- Simple ingredient list that includes natural herbs
- Safe for infants, children, and pregnant/breastfeeding mothers
- Should make a difference within a week
Cons
- Need to take two drops up to three times a day
- Many users disliked the taste
⑩ Go Healthy Natural Iron Gummies
Go Healthy’s iron supplement comes in the form of natural, tasty gummies that are kosher and vegan. On top of iron, they also contain folic acid, vitamin B12, and vitamin C, which enhance the effectiveness of the iron within the supplement. A purchase provides you with about a months’ worth of servings. The supplement is delicious and easy to take, helps to transport oxygen throughout your body, and supports healthy red blood cells. The grape flavor is natural, and vegans can rest assured that the gummies don’t contain any gelatin, GMOs, nuts, soy, eggs, or artificial flavors or preservatives. The gummies are handcrafted in a facility that’s nut free and GMP certified to ensure safety and efficiency, and they were formulated to not stick to your teeth like many other gummy supplements do. Each ingredient is plant based and allergen friendly. Natural color from elderberry and black carrot give the gummy its look and enhance its flavor. To support your whole health, take two gummies each day. Cons
Conclusion & What is the Best Vegan Iron Supplement
It’s possible to get a sufficient amount of iron through your diet as a vegan; there are many plant based foods that contain iron. However, thousands of people throughout the country suffer from an iron deficiency, and it’s one of the most common deficiencies. Iron is essential since it delivers oxygen throughout your body, and if you don’t get enough, you may feel lethargic and tired. Many people can benefit from filling nutritional gaps with an iron supplement.
Vegans are included in this; you’ll still have many options to choose from as you peruse the market, since many supplements feature plant based ingredients and won’t make you risk your careful lifestyle. On top of vegan ingredients, consider which dosage fits your lifestyle, exactly how much iron the supplement offers, and whether there’s any side effects so you don’t put yourself at risk. Consult with your doctor, and invest in a vegan iron supplement that will bring you energy and a healthier body and mind. Our favorite is the MegaFood Blood Builder (CHECK BEST PRICE HERE).
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