Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting an estimated 1.6 billion people. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce adequate hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues. Symptoms include persistent fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating. The right iron supplement can restore iron stores and resolve anemia symptoms, but choosing the correct form, dose, and formulation makes a significant difference in both effectiveness and tolerability.
Quick Comparison
Product
Iron Form
Dosage
Form
Best For
Lunakai Vegan Iron Gummies
Ferrous Bisglycinate
18 mg
Gummies
Best Overall
Pink Stork Iron for Women
Iron Bisglycinate
18 mg
Capsules
Best Non-Constipating
Pink Stork Beef Organ Supplement
Heme Iron (Beef Liver)
Whole-food sourced
Capsules
Best Heme Iron
Gentle Iron Slow Release
Ferrous Sulfate (Slow Release)
65 mg elemental
Capsules
Best High-Dose
NATURELO Vegan Iron
Iron Bisglycinate + Whole Foods
25 mg
Capsules
Best Vegan Option
Bariatric Multivitamin with Iron
Ferrous Fumarate
45 mg
Capsules
Best for Severe Deficiency
Iron Supplement Gummies with Folate
Ferrous Bisglycinate
18 mg
Gummies
Best Budget Option
1. Lunakai Vegan Iron Gummies — Best Overall
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Lunakai USA Made Vegan Iron Gummies with Vitamin C, E, B12 & Folate – Daily Chewable Iron Supplement for Women, Men, Kids & Pregnancy, 60ct
Daily Iron Gummies for the Whole Family – Chewable iron supplement for women, men, kids, and teens, formulated to support healthy iron levels, oxygen transport and natural energy throughout the day.
Gentle Iron for Sensitive Stomachs – Features a well-absorbed, non-constipating form of iron that’s easier to digest than traditional iron pills or capsules. Great for those with low iron sensitivity.
Complete Iron & Vitamin Blend – With Vitamin C for enhanced iron absorption, B12 for focus and vitality and Vitamin E for antioxidant support. Ideal for everyday wellness and energy.
Teen, Pregnancy & Nursing Support – A safe iron and B12 supplement for teenage girls, pregnant women and breastfeeding moms, designed for evolving nutritional needs across life stages.
Flavorful & Easy to Take – Delicious berry-flavored vegan iron gummies with no synthetic dyes or gelatin. Great-tasting and mess-free, perfect for both kids and adults.
A well-formulated iron gummy that pairs chelated iron with the absorption-boosting nutrients anemia patients need most.
Lunakai’s Vegan Iron Gummies provide 18 mg of iron from ferrous bisglycinate — the chelated form that clinical research shows absorbs efficiently while causing fewer GI side effects than ferrous sulfate. The formula also includes Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B12, and Folate, all of which play direct roles in red blood cell production and hemoglobin synthesis. For mild to moderate anemia, this combination of iron plus cofactors can be more effective than iron alone. Made in a USA GMP-certified facility, vegan, and non-GMO.
Pros:
Chelated iron with Vitamin C for enhanced absorption
B12 and Folate support red blood cell formation
Gummy format improves daily compliance
Cons:
18 mg may not be enough for severe anemia (consult doctor)
Contains added sugar typical of gummy supplements
Best for: Mild to moderate iron-deficiency anemia where a gentle, well-absorbed formula with key cofactors is preferred.
2. Pink Stork Iron for Women — Best Non-Constipating
Pink Stork Iron for Women – 18 mg Non-Constipating Iron Bisglycinate + Vitamin C for Optimal Absorption – Energy, Focus, & Oxygen Supply – PMS, Pregnancy, Postpartum & Perimenopause – 60 Capsules
Iron for Every Stage of Womanhood: From monthly cycles to menopause, women have unique iron needs, yet nearly 40% of women are deficient, leading to low energy, fatigue, lack of focus or concentration, weakness, and cold limbs. Pink Stork Iron with Vitamin C provides 18 mg of gentle Iron Bisglycinate to help maintain healthy iron levels through every stage of life.
Why Iron Matters: Women’s iron needs change throughout life. Monthly cycles can deplete iron stores and leave you feeling tired or run-down. During pregnancy, your body needs nearly twice as much iron to support healthy blood volume and oxygen transport. After childbirth, iron replenishment supports recovery and vitality. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can cause heavier cycles, while menopause may impact iron metabolism — making balanced iron levels key for sustained energy, focus, and overall wellness.
Immune, Energy, + Cognitive Support: Iron is essential for hemoglobin production, helping transport oxygen throughout the body to support energy, cognitive function, and immune health. Our formula includes Vitamin C for optimal absorption — so your body gets the most from every capsule. We use Iron Bisglycinate, a chelated form known to be non-constipating and easy on digestion — ideal for women who’ve experienced discomfort with traditional iron supplements.
Expert-Backed + Clean Ingredients: Each vegan capsule provides 18 mg Iron Bisglycinate and 50 mg Vitamin C from Acerola Fruit Extract — with no GMOs, gluten, dairy, soy, or artificial ingredients. Just clean, effective nutrition for women’s wellness. Third-party tested for purity and potency in cGMP facilities.
Women-Owned, Women-Focused: Pink Stork is proudly women-owned and run — offering vitamins, supplements, and wellness support designed to help women thrive through every phase of life: PMS, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and beyond. Created by Pink Stork—trusted by thousands of women seeking natural, effective solutions.
Chelated iron bisglycinate specifically formulated to avoid the constipation and nausea common with iron supplements.
Constipation is the number one reason people stop taking iron supplements, which is a problem when treating anemia requires consistent daily supplementation for months. Pink Stork Iron uses iron bisglycinate, a chelated form that clinical studies show causes significantly less constipation, nausea, and stomach pain compared to ferrous sulfate. Each capsule delivers 18 mg of iron plus Vitamin C for optimal absorption. The formula is designed specifically for women, who account for the majority of iron-deficiency anemia cases.
Pros:
Iron bisglycinate — clinically gentler on the digestive system
Added Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption
Small capsule size, easy to swallow
Cons:
18 mg dose may need to be doubled for anemia treatment (doctor’s guidance)
Not ideal for men or those needing gender-neutral branding
Best for: Anyone who has quit iron supplements in the past due to constipation or stomach discomfort.
3. Pink Stork Beef Organ Supplement — Best Heme Iron
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Pink Stork Beef Organ Supplement for Women | Grass-Fed Beef Liver Capsules with Iron, B12, CoQ10, Vitamin A | Primal Multivitamin for Female Hormone + Energy Support | 60 Capsules
Nutrient-Dense + Grass Fed Beef Liver Capsules: This female beef organ supplement features a targeted blend of grass-fed liver, kidney, heart, uterus, ovary, and fallopian tubes, offering real-food nutrients in a form your body recognizes. These organs naturally provide Vitamin A, Iron, B12, and CoQ10 for overall vitality.
Beef Organs for Women: Includes bovine uterus and ovary powder for hormonal and reproductive wellness. This grass-fed beef liver supplement supports endocrine function during PMS, postpartum, or perimenopause.
Whole-Food Energy + Mood Support: With heme iron and B vitamins, this beef organ supplement supports energy production. Take 1-2 capsules daily with food for cognitive function and balance.
Radiant Skin, Hair, + Immune Support: Beef liver and kidney are sources of Vitamin A, zinc, and selenium. This beef organ complex supports skin renewal and hair strength without any liver smell.
Grass-Fed + Hormone-Free + No Fillers: This primal multivitamin for women is third-party tested and gluten-free. Made without common allergens, it is pregnancy and breastfeeding friendly.
Grass-fed beef liver delivers heme iron — the most bioavailable form of dietary iron available.
Heme iron from animal sources absorbs at 15–35%, compared to just 2–20% for non-heme iron from plant sources and most supplements. Pink Stork’s Beef Organ Supplement provides naturally occurring heme iron from grass-fed beef liver along with B12, CoQ10, and a spectrum of whole-food nutrients that support energy production and blood health. For anemia patients who want maximum absorption without mega-dosing, heme iron is the most efficient option. The capsule format delivers organ meat nutrition without the taste.
Pros:
Heme iron absorbs 2–3x better than non-heme forms
Naturally occurring B12 supports red blood cell production
Whole-food nutrition profile from grass-fed organs
Cons:
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Exact iron content varies (whole-food, not standardized)
Best for: Anemia patients who want the highest possible iron absorption from a whole-food source.
4. Gentle Iron Slow Release — Best High-Dose
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Gentle Iron Supplement for Women Anemia: Slow Release Iron Pills Clinically Shown to Support Iron for Prenatal Pregnant Patented SunActive Tech, with Folic Acid, B12, Vitamin C & B6, 18 mg, 20 Tablets
【Fast-Acting, Gentle Support】Based on a 90days clinical study, Gynable Iron Plus helped support healthy iron levels within 30 days—without causing constipation. This gentle iron supplement is ideal for those with low iron, helping reduce fatigue and support red blood cell health. Ideal iron supplements for women and men, especially those looking for non constipating iron supplements or iron pills
【Complete Blood Support】Iron alone isn’t enough—key B vitamins also play a vital role in red blood cell formation. Our gentle 18 mg iron includes bioactive folate, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin B6 for blood production, energy, and cellular health, along with 80mg of Vitamin C to support iron absorption and immune function. This makes it an ideal iron supplement for women to support energy and healthy blood levels
【Gentle & Stomach-Friendly】With patented slow-release technology, it delivers 12 hours of gradual absorption. Minimizes nausea and constipation with 8.8x better absorption than other women’s iron supplements. Please Consult your physician before use, as individual gastrointestinal tolerance may vary
【Precision Dosage Iron】 According to the NIH, women need 18mg of iron daily and 27mg during pregnancy. Because excess iron isn’t easily excreted, over-supplementation may lead to a buildup—potentially causing constipation, stomach cramps, liver damage, or hormonal imbalances. These iron tablets are perfect for long-term use
【Flexible & Convenient】 Take one small, easy-to-swallow pill daily—anytime. Best between meals for optimal absorption. Individually sealed to prevent oxidation, with no metallic aftertaste. No need to avoid dairy, tea, or caffeine, and no nutrient interactions. Iron supplementation shouldn’t be a struggle—choose a supplement designed for your life
A high-potency 65 mg iron supplement with slow-release technology to minimize side effects at therapeutic doses.
When treating moderate to severe iron-deficiency anemia, higher doses of iron are often necessary to replenish depleted stores within a reasonable timeframe. This slow-release formula delivers 65 mg of elemental iron from ferrous sulfate using delayed-release capsule technology. Instead of releasing all at once in the stomach (where it causes the most side effects), the iron is gradually absorbed in the intestines. The formula also includes Vitamins C, D3, B6, B12, and Folate — a comprehensive cofactor profile that supports hemoglobin production and immune function during recovery.
Pros:
65 mg elemental iron — therapeutic dose for anemia correction
Slow-release mechanism significantly reduces nausea and constipation
Full B-vitamin and Vitamin C cofactor support
Cons:
High dose should only be taken under medical supervision
Ferrous sulfate may still cause some GI effects despite slow release
Best for: Moderate to severe iron-deficiency anemia where rapid restoration of iron stores is the priority.
5. NATURELO Vegan Iron Supplement — Best Vegan Option
NATURELO Vegan Iron Supplement with Vitamin C and Organic Whole Foods – Gentle Iron Pills for Women & Men with Iron Deficiency Including Pregnancy, Anemia and Vegan Diets – 90 Mini Capsules
GENTLE VEGAN IRON SUPPLEMENT: 25 mg of Iron with Vitamin C from Organic Acerola Cherries and Iron-Rich Whole Food Blend including Organic Beet, Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard, and Pumpkin Seed. Increase energy and decrease fatigue without nausea or constipation.
ADVANCED BIOAVAILABILITY FOR BETTER ABSORPTION: Our Iron is formulated as Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate which has nearly 2x more bioavailability than other forms of Iron such as ferrous sulfate, gluconate or fumarate. The addition of Vitamin C further enhances the absorption of our Iron, so you can get better results.
DOCTOR RECOMMENDED IRON LEVELS: Perfect way to supplement your diet with Iron for healthy red blood cell functions. Designed for individuals with common iron deficiencies such as pregnant women, menstruating girls, vegans and vegetarians, dialysis patients, frequent blood donors, and anemic men or women.
PREMIUM QUALITY & SAFETY: Unlike cheaper brands this product is Made in a GMP-Certified facility with Premium Ingredients that are Non-GMO, Natural, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Vegan & Vegetarian, and contain NO Coloring, Flavoring, or Preservatives.
FROM NATURE WITH LOVE: We believe nutrition should come from nature – not a laboratory. We formulate our supplements using only the cleanest, most bioavailable ingredients whenever possible to harness the power of plants for whole food nutrition.
A plant-based iron supplement with 25 mg of chelated iron plus organic whole-food cofactors.
Vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk for iron-deficiency anemia because plant-based (non-heme) iron is less bioavailable than heme iron from animal sources. NATURELO addresses this with 25 mg of iron bisglycinate — a higher dose than the standard 18 mg — plus Vitamin C from organic acerola cherry to maximize absorption. The formula includes a whole-food blend of beet, spinach, and kale that provides additional naturally occurring nutrients. Free from synthetic fillers, GMOs, gluten, and soy.
Pros:
25 mg chelated iron — good therapeutic dose for plant-based dieters
Organic whole-food blend with absorption-enhancing Vitamin C
Clean formula — no synthetic fillers or common allergens
Cons:
Premium pricing
Capsule may be large for some users
Best for: Vegans, vegetarians, and plant-based eaters with iron-deficiency anemia who need a higher-dose, well-absorbed supplement.
6. Bariatric Multivitamin with Iron — Best for Severe Deficiency
Bariatric Multivitamin – 45 mg Iron Supplements – Made in USA – for Women & Men – All-in-One, 21 Essential Vitamins – Gastric Sleeve Support – Free of Sugar, Gluten & Soy – 90 Capsules, Once Daily
Post-bariatric Support 21 in 1 — Bariatric multivitamin by NUTRAHARMONY formulated & developed to meet the needs of men and women in post-bariatric surgery of all types. Gastric bypass vitamins containing a complete multivitamin from all essential 21 vitamins and minerals.
One Per Day — A simple daily supplementation regimen that provides all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals in just one capsule. One serving of bariatric multivitamin with iron to fill your nutritional deficiencies, saturates the body with main vitamins while following a diet, and supports overall good well-being.
With 45 mg Iron — A great and effective source to replenish Iron deficiency: bariatric iron fortified formula with Iron to get enough Iron DV% after bariatric surgery. Fortified formula of opurity bypass and sleeve multivitamins supports hemoglobin levels and helps to get enough Iron daily after bariatric surgery.
Made in USA — Bariatric vitamin supplements does not contain GMOs; it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, wheat-free, soy-free, nightshade-free, and sugar-free. Also, it’s a perfect addition to your gluten-free lifestyle with post-bariatric support and significant effects.
Quality Matters — Bariatric vitamins multivitamin an excellent and effortless choice for support your wellness. If you want to share your experience or have questions, message us. Our support team works 24/7. Maintain your health anytime, anywhere with bariatric vitamins with iron!
A 45 mg iron formula originally designed for post-surgical patients with compromised nutrient absorption.
This supplement was formulated for bariatric surgery patients who require significantly more iron due to reduced stomach acid and intestinal absorption. That same high-potency formula works well for anyone with severe iron-deficiency anemia or conditions that impair iron absorption, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic blood loss. The all-in-one formula includes 21 essential vitamins and minerals, eliminating the need for multiple supplements during recovery. Made in the USA with 45 mg of iron per serving.
Pros:
45 mg iron — strong therapeutic dose for severe deficiency
All-in-one formula with 21 essential nutrients
Designed for people with absorption challenges
Cons:
Requires medical supervision at this dose
Higher iron doses increase risk of GI side effects
Best for: Severe iron-deficiency anemia, malabsorption conditions, or post-bariatric surgery supplementation.
7. Iron Supplement Gummies with Folate — Best Budget Option
Iron Supplement for Women & Men Gummies, Multivitamin Blood Builder Iron Supplement with Folate Vitamin C B12 B6 Zinc for Adults & Kids – Energy Support – Peach Flavor, Vegan 60 Gummies
ADVANCED IRON ABSORPTION & DAILY ENERGY BOOST: CNCHEF Iron Gummies feature highly bioavailable Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate (18mg per serving, 100% DV) paired with 90mg Vitamin C to maximize iron uptake and oxygen transport. Gently supports healthy hemoglobin levels without stomach discomfort, constipation, or metallic aftertaste. Ideal for combating fatigue in children, menstruating women, pregnant/nursing moms, athletes, and vegetarians seeking a fuss-free iron supplement
SMART NUTRIENT FUSION FOR IMMUNITY & VITALITY: Enriched with 6 essential nutrients: Vitamin B12 (250% DV) and B6 to fuel red blood cell production, Folate (400mcg DFE) for DNA health, Zinc (9mg, 60% DV) to strengthen immune defense, plus antioxidant-rich Vitamin C. This science-backed blend enhances focus in kids, sustains energy for busy adults, and promotes overall wellness across all life stages
KID-APPROVED BEAR GUMMIES WITH SUGAR-FREE JOY: Cheerful bear-shaped gummies burst with natural peach flavor, sweetened guilt-free with xylitol (no added sugars). Pectin-based, vegan-friendly formula is gentle on tiny tummies and perfect for picky eaters. No artificial colors, gluten, dairy, or GMOs—parents can trust these tasty treats to support growing bones, brain development, and active lifestyles
GENTLE & INCLUSIVE FORMULA FOR EVERY BODY: Crafted with sensitivity in mind: Non-constipating Ferrous Bisglycinate suits iron-deficient individuals and sensitive stomachs. Soy-free, nut-free, and gelatin-free, our gummies align with vegan, keto, and allergy-conscious diets. Produced in GMP-certified facilities with rigorously tested ingredients for purity and potency everyone can rely on
FAMILY-FRIENDLY CONVENIENCE, ON-THE-GO WELLNESS: Portable gummy fits effortlessly into hectic routines—ideal for lunchboxes, travel, or post-workout recovery. No water or swallowing struggles; these soft chews delight both kids (4+) and adults. CNCHEF prioritizes your satisfaction, If you are not satisfied with our products for any reason, please contact us at any time!
An affordable iron gummy designed as a blood builder for daily anemia maintenance.
These gummies deliver 18 mg of iron from ferrous bisglycinate alongside Folate and other supporting vitamins critical for red blood cell production. The blood-builder formula is designed to address the nutritional gaps that contribute to iron-deficiency anemia — particularly low iron combined with inadequate folate, which together account for the majority of nutritional anemias. The chewable format makes it easy to maintain the consistent daily supplementation that anemia treatment requires. An excellent entry-level option for those managing mild anemia on a budget.
Pros:
Budget-friendly price for a chelated iron gummy
Folate and iron together address two common causes of anemia
Chewable format promotes daily compliance
Cons:
Contains added sugar
18 mg dose may be insufficient for moderate-severe anemia
Best for: Budget-conscious individuals managing mild iron-deficiency anemia who want a simple, easy-to-take daily supplement.
How to Choose the Best Iron Supplement for Anemia
The right iron supplement for anemia depends on the severity of your deficiency. Mild anemia (ferritin 12–30 ng/mL) often responds well to 18–25 mg of chelated iron daily. Moderate to severe anemia (ferritin below 12 ng/mL) typically requires 45–65 mg of elemental iron under medical supervision. Your doctor can determine the right dose based on your blood work, including ferritin, serum iron, and hemoglobin levels.
Iron form matters significantly for anemia treatment because you need consistent daily supplementation for 2–3 months. If your supplement causes constipation or nausea, you’re likely to stop taking it before your stores are replenished. Iron bisglycinate causes the fewest side effects while still absorbing well. Ferrous sulfate provides more elemental iron per dose but has higher rates of GI complaints. Heme iron from animal sources absorbs the best but isn’t available in vegan products.
Always take iron with Vitamin C and away from calcium, coffee, tea, and dairy. Consider whether your anemia is caused by iron deficiency alone or combined with B12 or folate deficiency — a supplement that includes all three nutrients can address multiple deficiency types simultaneously. Get retested after 3 months to confirm your levels are improving, and continue supplementation for as long as your healthcare provider recommends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best form of iron for treating anemia?
Iron bisglycinate (chelated iron) is widely considered the best overall form for treating anemia. It absorbs well, causes fewer side effects, and can be taken long-term without the constipation issues associated with ferrous sulfate. For maximum absorption, heme iron from animal sources is superior, but chelated non-heme iron is the best plant-based option.
How much iron should I take for anemia?
For mild deficiency, 18–25 mg of elemental iron daily is typically sufficient. For moderate to severe iron-deficiency anemia, doctors often recommend 45–65 mg of elemental iron once or twice daily. Recent research suggests that taking iron every other day may actually improve absorption compared to daily dosing. Always follow your healthcare provider’s dosing recommendation based on your blood work.
How long does it take to correct iron-deficiency anemia?
Hemoglobin levels typically begin to rise within 2–4 weeks of consistent iron supplementation. Most people feel noticeably more energetic within this timeframe. However, fully replenishing iron stores (normalizing ferritin levels) takes 3–6 months of continued supplementation. Stopping too early is a common mistake that leads to recurrent anemia.
Why does iron cause constipation and how can I avoid it?
Iron slows intestinal motility and can alter the gut microbiome, leading to constipation. Ferrous sulfate is the worst offender. To minimize this: choose chelated iron bisglycinate or slow-release formulas, drink plenty of water, eat high-fiber foods, and consider taking iron every other day rather than daily. If constipation persists, switching iron forms usually helps.
Can I take iron with other supplements?
Take iron with Vitamin C (or a glass of orange juice) to boost absorption. Avoid taking iron at the same time as calcium, zinc, magnesium, or antacids — space them 2 hours apart. B12 and folate are safe to take alongside iron and actually support red blood cell production. Thyroid medication should be taken 4 hours apart from iron supplements.
Should I take iron supplements with food or on an empty stomach?
Iron absorbs best on an empty stomach — 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. However, if it causes nausea, taking it with a small, non-dairy meal is acceptable. Avoid taking iron with dairy products, eggs, coffee, tea, or whole grains, as these foods contain compounds that significantly reduce iron absorption.