What are the different types of iron supplement?

Iron is essential to the human body and it contributes to the correct functioning and overall health of every one of us. When your diet alone does not provide adequate iron, or a condition, illness or injury sees your iron levels drop, it is vital that you take a supplement to ensure that you stay as healthy as possible.

If you have an iron deficiency a health care professional will recommend an iron supplement that will give you a boost. Fortunately, taking iron is easy and there are several different ways in which you can up your iron intake. Liquid iron supplements, tablets or chewable tablets are all an option and each offers their own advantages and different absorption rate.

There are two types of iron that may be prescribed, ferrous iron and ferric iron.

Ferrous iron supplements

Ferrous Iron

Ferrous iron has a better absorption rate than ferric iron, and is therefore most commonly used in supplements. Ferrous sulphate, ferrous gluconate and ferrous fumarate are the three different types of ferrous iron and are available in a variety of different forms, making them suitable for adults and children alike to ingest easily.

Ferric iron supplements

Ferric Iron

As ferric iron is not absorbed as well as its ferrous counterpart it’s prescribed less often. Its also been proven that ferrous iron is better tolerated and has less side effects. Some conditions do require ferric iron treatment as the gastrointestinal tract has a lesser ability to reduce ferric iron into it ferrous form, but this type of treatment is usually conducted under the watchful supervision of a doctor.

Getting your iron dosage right

Iron Dosages

The role of iron in the body and its importance is undisputed and new scientific breakthroughs are made all the time with regards to this important mineral.

When taking iron supplements from Blue Iron or any other iron supplement you need to be aware of the correct dosage for your body. The amount of iron you require will depend on the severity of your condition and the standard for adults is generally around 60-200 mg per day.

For anyone who suffers from anaemia, iron supplements are a saving grace and can make life that much easier. A medical professional will be able to advise as to what dosage you require and the regularity with which you need to take it.

Summary

This article explains the different forms of iron supplement, covering liquid, tablet and chewable options, and the two main types prescribed, ferrous and ferric iron. It notes ferrous iron is absorbed better and used more often, while ferric iron is prescribed less and only in certain conditions, and advises checking the correct dosage, typically 60-200mg a day for adults, with a medical professional.

Questions this article raises

• Why is ferrous iron absorbed better than ferric iron?
• What side effects are most common with iron supplements?
• How does a doctor decide the right dosage for someone with anaemia?