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Iron is one of the essential minerals required by the human body. If you are pregnant or iron deficient, your healthcare provider may recommend the best iron supplements for pregnancy. Foods such as spinach, broccoli, lentils, beans, pumpkin seeds, dried fruits, shellfish, red meat, and poultry are quality iron sources, and you can get your required amount of iron by adding these to your diet. However, you may have to take supplements during pregnancy or if you are at a risk for iron-deficiency. The US CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) suggests that women, especially pregnant women, take a dose of oral iron supplements (of 30mg/day) after their first prenatal appointment (1).
Read this post as we list some iron supplements that experts generally recommend as part of pregnancy nutrition. However, before you purchase them, note that you should consult your physician or dietician.
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Things To Remember While Using Iron Supplements
- Never consider buying OTC supplements without consulting your physician or certified gynecologist.
- Ask your doctor about the dosage: how many tablets you should take and when to take them.
- Ideally, it is recommended that you take them one to two hours before or after meals as they are absorbable on an empty stomach.
- Do not take along with foods such as milk, tea, coffee, cheese, eggs, spinach, whole grains, and yogurt, as these might deplete the supplements’ value.
- Iron supplements may interfere with certain medications. So inform your healthcare professional about the other medicines you are taking.
- Do not take more than the recommended dosage.
10 Iron Supplements For Pregnancy
1. Best For Fatigue: Mega Food Blood Builder
As per a clinical study, Blood Builder from Mega Food has been shown to combat fatigue and increase energy levels without causing constipation or nausea. The supplement also contains beetroot and orange extracts that promote iron absorption. It could be taken on an empty stomach at any time of the day. For more information about the product, click this video review to explore a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Made with farm-fresh whole foods
- Improves digestion
- Offers folic acid, vitamin B12, and vitamin C
- Free of gluten, soy, and dairy
- Safe for menstruating women and teenage girls
- A good option for vegans and vegetarians
- Tested for more than 125 chemical substances
Cons
- May have a strange taste
"The thoughtful blend of essential nutrients made these pills my chosen iron supplement during pregnancy. Besides, it does not cause any issues, even when I take it on an empty stomach. While I'm yet to see how it performs in the long run, the start has been promising."
Point To Consider
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 21,262 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
2. Best For Hemoglobin: Zahler’s Iron Complex
Zahler’s Iron complex claims to be a complete blood-building iron supplement containing all the nutrients needed for hemoglobin formation and production of RBCs. It contains Ferrochel, an effective form of iron. This supplement meets the highest nutraceutical standards and is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility. Check this video to learn more about the product as a reviewer shares their experience after testing the supplement.
Pros
- Easy on the stomach
- Easily absorbed
- Helps address anemia during pregnancy
- Contains B12, folic acid, and sufficient iron
- Gives better results when taken along with food
Cons
- Magnesium in the supplement may cause gas and bloating in some
- May taste strange
"After years of searching, I've finally found a supplement that raises my iron levels without upsetting the stomach. It's got the right mix of iron and supportive nutrients like B12 and Vitamin C, which doesn't even overwhelm my body. Hence, I plan on sticking with it for a long time."
3. Best Natural Extracts: Floravital Liquid Iron Supplement
Floradix offers a liquid iron supplement for pregnancy. Made from natural herbal extracts and fruit juices, this palate-pleasing supplement helps prevent and manage iron deficiency by promoting hemoglobin production. This nutritious tonic is suitable for nursing, menstruating, and athletic women and also for men and growing children.
Pros
- Yeast and gluten-free formula
- Herbal extracts and fruit juices offer it a good taste
- Free of alcohol, lactose, and dairy
- Low-dose supplement
- Has no artificial colors or flavors
- Formulated with no preservatives
Cons
- Bottle may not be leak-proof
- May cause nausea
"This liquid iron supplement has helped relieve anemia without causing constipation or other stomach issues. I would have liked its bottle to be more user-friendly, but the liquid is palatable and efficient."
Mega Food Blood Builder Best For Fatigue | Zahler’s Iron Complex Best For Hemoglobin | Floravital Liquid Iron Supplement Best Natural Extracts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2 x 2 x 2 inches | 4 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches | 6 x 5 x 4 inches |
| Weight | 1 Pounds | 2.61 Ounces | 3.53 Ounces |
| Weight | - | 74 Grams | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 21,262 | 2,431 | 1,787 |
| Price | $45.99 | $21.85 | $44.99 |
4. Best For Everyday Use: Slow Fe Iron Supplement Tablets
One of the doctor-recommended iron supplements, this provides sufficient iron to improve the transfer of oxygen via blood. Iron is present in the form of ferrous sulfate that is easily absorbable. It is formulated for everyday iron intake.
Pros
- Easy-to-swallow
- Gentle on the stomach
- Widely available and a budget-friendly option
- Slow-release iron formula good for the gastrointestinal system
Cons
- May cause stomach problems for those having a sensitive stomach
- May not be effective for everyone
"These pills' slow-release mechanism gradually enhances my iron levels and makes it easy for my stomach to digest them. Its packaging is slightly tricky to navigate, but the pill gets swallowed without a hitch."
5. Best Gluten-Free: Pink Stork Total Iron Supplement
Pink Stork Total Iron supplement for women contains iron bisglycinate and vitamin C to reduce fatigue and improve concentration, blood production, energy levels, and sleep. The pregnancy-safe vegetarian capsules also support oxygen transportation from your lungs to the rest of the body and boost immunity. The supplement is free of gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, or GMOs.
Pros
- May help relieve gastrointestinal issues and ease nausea
- Safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Doesn’t have a strong taste
- cGMP-certified
Cons
- May not be suitable for people with gastritis
"Although this iron supplement is unflavoured, I was able to consume it with ease, even when I was pregnant. I was also delighted that it did not cause nausea or digestive issues. Overall, it has proven to be a gentle supplement for increasing iron."
6. Best Absorbing: Triquetra Health Ionic Liquid Iron Supplement
Here is another safety-tested liquid iron supplement for pregnancy that offers the ionic form of iron. This pregnancy-safe bio-available form of iron is made from earth-sourced minerals that allow a smaller dosage iron intake. Formulated for one to two doses per day, it is produced in cGMP-certified facilities.
Pros
- Easily absorbable
- Free of artificial flavors and ingredients
- Improves blood health and energy levels
- Improves fingernail and hair health
- Vegan-friendly supplement
Cons
- The taste may not be appealing
- May not work in case of severe anemia
"I've noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels since I started taking this supplement. Its taste is not very delicious, but its effectiveness in boosting iron levels and lack of side effects have made it my preferred option."
7. Best Berry-Flavored: MaryRuth’s Iron Supplement Prenatal & Postnatal
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 824 positive reviews on Amazon.
This liquid iron supplement by MaryRuth contains ferrous bisglycinate chelate, a type of iron that is more absorbable and tolerable than iron salts. The nutritious, berry-flavored supplement is beneficial for your immune health and helps maintain oxygen levels. It is specially formulated and recommended for expectant mothers and new moms. Moreover, this is also beneficial for the baby’s cognitive development.
Pros
- Non-GMO and vegan
- Free of dairy, nuts, gluten, wheat, soy, corn, nightshades, and sugar
- Helps improve cellular health
- Made in a GMP facility
Cons
- Some may not like the smell
- Might stain your teeth slightly
"I'm not fond of taking pills, so this liquid iron supplement has been the perfect find. Its raspberry flavor also masks the metallic aftertaste and makes it easy to swallow. Plus, it has not caused any stomach issues either."
Point To Consider8. Best Digestible: Fusion Lifestyle Soft Chews
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 4,918 fine reviews on Amazon.
Fusion lifestyle soft chews are pregnancy-safe chewable iron supplements with a tasty cherry flavor. They contain optimal amounts of iron and vitamin C and could reduce the risk of fatigue and anemia during pregnancy. These palate-pleasing supplements have a candy-like texture and taste.
Pros
- Easy-on-the stomach, and easily digestible
- Causes no gastrointestinal problems
- Free from gluten and sugar
- Easily absorbable
- A budget-friendly option that would serve for two months
Cons
- Some may find them hard to chew
- The intense cherry flavor may cause nausea in some
"Having taken this iron supplement for a while, I can vouch that it does not cause stomach issues. Its cherry flavor is also palatable, and the pill form makes it easy to take the correct dose. However, I recommend storing it in the fridge to maintain its texture."
9. Best Non-Constipating: Natures Nectar Iron Booster
A scientifically proven natural iron supplement for pregnancy, this one is packed with iron, folic acid, vitamin B12 and C. Iron is present in the form of ferrous fumarate, which makes it a non-constipating formula. The recommended dosage is one per day.
Pros
- Gentle on the stomach
- Easily absorbable
- Made with plant-based natural ingredients
- Free from flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives
- Aids hemoglobin formation
- Improves energy levels
Cons
- May cause digestive problems in some
- Ferrous fumarate may offer a low iron dose
"In addition to being small and easy to swallow, it does not leave any peculiar aftertaste. It did not show overnight results, but consistent use has helped keep my iron levels in check. Moreover, the lack of side effects is much appreciated."
10. Best For Immunity: Active Iron High Potency Iron Supplement
Active Iron High Potency supplements are said to be clinically proven to enable better absorption of iron and are formulated to support sufficient iron levels and boost immunity. The non-constipating formula contains 25 milligrams of elemental iron, which is around 138% of daily recommended minimal value.
Pros
- Causes no gastrointestinal problems
- Can be taken on an empty stomach
- Specially formulated to reduce nausea, reflux, and constipation
- Free from gluten, sugar, and artificial preservatives
- Suitable for vegetarians
Cons
- May cause constipation or gastric discomfort in some
- May not work for those at risk for iron-deficiency or have anemia
"Despite being pricey, this supplement has become my preferred option as it has improved my iron levels like no other pill. Although gentle enough to keep stomach issues at bay, I suggest consulting a doctor before taking it if you are on other medications."
How To Choose The Right Iron Supplements?
Apart from consulting a certified gynecologist or nutritional and fitness expert for personalized guidance, here is a list of points to consider while selecting iron supplements for pregnancy.
- Iron content: Ensure the supplement has sufficient iron content to maintain your daily requirement. While we get iron from different vegetables and other sources, it might not be enough to meet your iron needs. So, check the iron content and consult your doctor to find a suitable supplement.
- Composition: The iron supplements come in different forms, including tablets, capsules, soft chews, and syrups. If you have difficulty swallowing pills, it might be a good idea to opt for liquid supplements or chews.
- Ingredients: Many iron supplements include vitamins like vitamin B12 and vitamin C. Vitamin C helps absorb iron whereas vitamin B can prevent congenital disorders. Moreover, many healthy pregnancy supplements are made of organic, plant-based ingredients for easy digestion and safety. So, choose a suitable supplement as per your needs.
- Iron type: There are various kinds of iron sources in supplements which include ferrous fumarate, elemental iron, ferrous sulfate, etc. Some types might suit you better than the others. Therefore, discuss it with a certified physician or healthcare professional before buying one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to take an iron supplement while pregnant?
It is essential to consume iron supplements during pregnancy. Physicians recommend iron supplements, especially for people with anemia during pregnancy, as severe anemia may lead to complications in pregnancy (1).
2. What is the best form of iron supplement to take?
You can get iron from your diet by consuming iron-rich foods like meat, millet, chickpeas, tuna, shrimp, and more (1). However, experts recommend consuming prescribed iron supplements in tablets and drops form during pregnancy.
3. How can I raise my iron levels quickly while pregnant?
You can boost iron levels by consuming iron-rich foods like meat, fish, chicken, leafy vegetables, dried beans, and more. Iron found in meat has greater absorption than iron found in vegetables (2).
4. How much iron should I take in supplement form?
You can consume 20 to 30 mg per day if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (1). However, vegetarians or vegans may not get the required amount of iron through diet alone.
5. Is it okay to take iron supplements every day?
Yes, it is necessary to take iron supplements every day, especially when you are anemic. However, consult your doctor before taking even pregnancy-safe iron supplements as overdosing may cause side effects (1).
6. What can I take with iron supplements to avoid constipation?
Hard and black stools are common while taking iron supplements. So, ask your healthcare professional to prescribe a softener to minimize the chances of constipation (3).
7. How do I know if I have iron deficiency during pregnancy?
Iron deficiency may make you feel weak. However, pregnant women are asked to run blood tests that confirm iron levels (1).
The Bottom Line
Iron is an essential mineral that our body needs. Doctors prescribe iron supplements to pregnant women to meet their increased daily iron intake requirements. Likewise, these dietary supplements also help meet your iron requirements when your foods don’t provide your body with enough iron and you’re deficient in this mineral. Therefore, we recommend the Floravital Liquid Iron Supplement, made of pure herbal extracts, and the Slow Fe Iron Supplement Tablets, which are gentle on the stomach and suitable for daily use. However, picking an iron supplement of a suitable dosage is essential to ensure you’re not overdosing or underdosing. So, you should consult your healthcare professional before taking dietary supplements to determine the correct dosage.
Infographic: Tips To Follow When Consuming Iron Supplements
Iron supplements help maintain the iron level in your body and help lower the chances of developing anemia. They are often found in the form of ferrous or ferric sulfate and should be consumed in an optimal dosage to reap their benefits. Here’s an infographic with the dos and don’ts of iron consumption. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Pregnancy and birth: Do all pregnant women need to take iron supplements?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279574/ - Anemia and Pregnancy
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/en/education/anemia-and-pregnancy - Taking iron supplements
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007478.htm - Iron.
https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/iron/
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have listed the best iron supplements for pregnant women with iron deficiency to meet their increased iron requirements during pregnancy. After looking through different products, we bring you vegan and vegetarian-friendly dietary supplements to suit your needs. We have also mentioned other features, such as gluten-free and easily digestible, to help you make the right choice. The post also includes tips to remember when having supplements for your safety.
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