Liquid iron supplements offer several advantages over pills and capsules: they’re easier to swallow, allow for flexible dosing, and are often better absorbed by the body. They’re particularly popular among people who struggle with capsules, those with absorption issues, and parents looking for iron supplementation options for children. The best liquid irons use gentle, highly bioavailable forms that minimize the stomach upset traditionally associated with iron supplements.
Quick Comparison
Product
Iron Dose
Form
Best For
Rating
MaryRuth’s Liquid Iron
18mg Ferrochel
Liquid
Best Overall
4.6/5
Floradix Iron + Herbs
10mg per serving
Liquid Herbal
Best Herbal Formula
4.6/5
Mother’s Promise Organic Liquid Iron
18mg Ferrochel
Liquid
Best Organic
4.5/5
Hematex Liquid Iron Polysaccharide
100mg per 5mL
Liquid
Best High-Dose
4.4/5
Pink Stork Iron for Women
18mg Iron Bisglycinate
Capsules
Best Capsule Alternative
4.5/5
Lunakai Vegan Iron Gummies
18mg + C, B12, Folate
Gummies
Best Gummy Alternative
4.5/5
1. MaryRuth’s Liquid Iron – Best Overall
Iron Supplement for Women Men & Kids | Liquid Iron Supplement for Women Men & Kids | Iron for Healthy Blood & Oxygen | Ages 4 & Up | Sugar Free | Vegan | Non-GMO | Gluten Free | 15.22 Fl Oz
Liquid Iron Supplements for Men, Women, and Kids: Iron is important for blood production, cellular health, energy metabolism, and overall health. In fact, iron is important for transporting oxygen through the body! Adequate oxygen levels are crucial for good health, and sufficient iron intake helps ensure that you’re getting the oxygen you need.
Blood Builder Iron Supplement: Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin and myoglobin, proteins of red blood cells and muscle cells respectively. Red blood cells — through their relationship with hemoglobin — accept, store, and transport oxygen throughout the body as needed.
Absorption: Our iron for women, men, and children ages 4+ comes from bioavailable Ferrochel, otherwise known as ferrous bisglycinate chelate, a unique form of iron that may have higher absorption rates and increased tolerability than iron salts.
Easy-to-Take Liquid: This gentle iron supplement for women, men, and kids comes in liquid form so it’s easy to swallow and adaptable for measuring doses as needed for your family — even when the kiddos need a smaller dose. Suitable for ages 4 and up.
For Most Lifestyles: MaryRuth’s liquid iron supplement for kids and adults is Non-GMO, Vegan, No Artificial Colors. Liquid iron made in a GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Facility. Dairy Free, Nut Free, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Sugar Free. Clean Label Project Certified. B Corp Certified.
MaryRuth’s Liquid Iron uses Ferrochel iron bisglycinate in an easy-to-take liquid that’s suitable for the whole family, from kids aged 4 and up to adults, with flexible dosing and a pleasant taste.
This liquid iron delivers 18mg of iron per serving as Ferrochel (ferrous bisglycinate chelate), the patented chelated iron form known for superior absorption and minimal GI side effects. The liquid format allows for easy dose adjustment — essential for families with different age groups and iron needs. Clean Label Project certified, B Corp certified, non-GMO, vegan, and free from sugar, dairy, nuts, gluten, and soy. The 15.22 fl oz bottle provides approximately 32 servings. Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility.
Pros:
Patented Ferrochel iron for superior absorption with minimal stomach issues
Flexible dosing for all family members (ages 4+)
Clean Label Project certified with numerous allergen-free certifications
Cons:
Must be refrigerated after opening
Some users report the taste is not as pleasant as flavored alternatives
Best for: Families looking for a versatile, high-quality liquid iron that works for both kids and adults
2. Floradix Iron + Herbs – Best Herbal Formula
THORNE – Quercetin Complex (Formerly Quercenase) – Nutritional Support for Seasonal Allergies* – 60 Capsules – 60 Servings
Allergies: Provides nutritional support for individuals with allergies*
Injury: Bromelain helps reduce bruising and swelling*
Optimal Absorption: Quercetin bound to phosphatidylcholine for optimal absorption*
Free From: Every Thorne product is made with the purest possible ingredients – without gluten or other major allergens (eggs, tree nuts, peanuts) This product also contains no soy, dairy, shellfish, or fish
Trusted: Thorne is chosen by champions and trusted by 100+ professional sports teams, a proud partner of U.S. National Teams, and the #1 recommended clinical brand by health-care practitioners (2023 Health-Care Practitioner Seller Survey)
Floradix is the best-selling natural liquid iron supplement in the U.S., combining 10mg of easily absorbed ferrous gluconate with vitamin C, B vitamins, and a blend of herbal extracts for gentle, plant-supported iron absorption.
This time-tested formula has been a go-to liquid iron supplement for decades. Each serving provides 10mg of iron from ferrous gluconate, paired with vitamin C from rose hip extract to boost absorption, plus B-complex vitamins for energy metabolism. The herbal extract blend includes nettle, fennel, carrot, and spinach juices that provide trace nutrients and improve digestibility. The plant-based liquid extract is designed to be gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Purity-tested, non-GMO, vegetarian, lactose-free, and alcohol-free. The 8.5 fl oz bottle must be refrigerated after opening and used within four weeks.
Pros:
Decades-long track record as a trusted liquid iron supplement
Herbal extract blend aids digestion and provides trace nutrients
Very gentle on the stomach — rarely causes constipation
Cons:
Lower iron dose (10mg) may not suit those with significant deficiency
Must be refrigerated and used within 4 weeks of opening
Best for: Those who want a time-tested, gentle herbal iron tonic with a proven reputation
3. Floradix Floravital (Vegan/Gluten-Free) – Best Vegan Liquid Iron
NOW Foods Supplements, Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg, Supports Glutathione Production*, Free Radical Scavenger*, 120 Veg Capsules
SUPPORTS GLUTATHIONE PRODUCTION*: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is naturally produced in the human body in very small amounts, but is also available through food sources
TAKE 1 CAPSULE DAILY: ALA is unique because it supports the body’s free radical scavenging systems and can function in both water and fat environments*
NON-GMO: ALA can also recycle the antioxidant vitamins C and E, thereby extending their activities*
GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation)
Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968
Floravital is Floradix’s vegan, yeast-free, and gluten-free formula, delivering the same trusted liquid iron and herbal extract blend without any animal-derived ingredients or common allergens.
For those who love the Floradix formula but need a strictly vegan or gluten-free option, Floravital delivers the same 10mg of iron per serving with vitamin C, B vitamins, and herbal fruit juice extracts in a formula that eliminates yeast, gluten, and all animal-derived ingredients. The taste is slightly different from original Floradix due to the modified base, but absorption and effectiveness are comparable. Non-GMO, alcohol-free, and free from artificial preservatives.
Pros:
Certified vegan, yeast-free, and gluten-free
Same trusted Floradix herbal iron formula
Extremely gentle on the stomach
Cons:
10mg iron per serving is relatively low for treating deficiency
Short shelf life once opened (4 weeks, refrigerated)
Best for: Vegans and those with gluten or yeast sensitivities who want the trusted Floradix formula
4. Mother’s Promise Organic Liquid Iron – Best Organic
Organic Liquid Iron Supplement for Women, Men & Kids with Vitamin C | Sugar Free Natural Berry Flavor Non Constipating Vegan Ferrochel® Iron Supplements for Healthy Blood, Prenatal & Postnatal
Gentle Iron Supplement for the Whole Family – Mother’s Promise Liquid Iron supplements for men, women, and kids is important for blood production, cellular health, energy metabolism and overall health and wellness at every life stage. Designed with your family’s health needs in mind.
Blood Builder Iron Supplement – Iron is crucial for healthy red blood cells, energy metabolism, and oxygen transport. With high bioavailability, this liquid iron supports better absorption to help maintain optimal iron levels.
Organic Berry Flavor, Sugar-Free – No artificial sweeteners or added sugar—just a pleasant natural berry flavor that’s easy for kids and adults alike.
Easy-to-Take & High Absorption Formula – Our iron for women, men, teens, kids, and even pregnant women, uses Ferrochel iron chelate for optimal absorption and digestive comfort. Enhanced with Vitamin C from Organic Acerola Cherry, it supports iron uptake without causing constipation.
Quality You Can Trust – Certified USDA Organic | Vegan | Third-Party Tested | Zero Gelatin or Animal Products | Non-GMO | Gluten-Free | Dairy-Free | Soy-Free | Allergen-Free | cGMP Certified Manufacturing | Women-Owned Business
This USDA organic liquid iron uses Ferrochel chelated iron with organic vitamin C from acerola cherry in a sugar-free, berry-flavored formula suitable for the whole family.
Mother’s Promise stands out as one of the few liquid iron supplements with USDA organic certification. The formula delivers 18mg of iron per serving using Ferrochel (ferrous bisglycinate chelate) for high absorption and low GI side effects, enhanced with organic vitamin C from acerola cherry. The natural berry flavor is sugar-free, using organic stevia instead. Non-constipating, vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. Suitable for men, women, and kids, including during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Pros:
USDA organic certified — one of the few organic liquid irons available
Ferrochel chelated iron for superior absorption
Sugar-free with natural berry flavor
Cons:
Newer brand without the long track record of established iron supplements
Organic ingredients carry a price premium
Best for: Those who prioritize organic certification in their supplements
5. NovaFerrum Wow Liquid Iron (125mg) – Best High-Potency
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NovaFerrum Wow delivers a clinical-strength 125mg of iron per 5mL dose using polysaccharide iron complex, designed for adults with significant iron deficiency under medical supervision.
This high-potency liquid iron is formulated for adults with diagnosed iron deficiency or anemia who need therapeutic doses. The polysaccharide iron complex (PIC) is known for being better tolerated than ferrous sulfate at high doses, reducing the nausea and constipation that typically accompany high-dose iron supplementation. NovaFerrum is a brand trusted by pediatricians and hematologists, with their adult formula offering the same pharmaceutical-quality standards. Vegan verified, gluten-free certified, and sugar-free.
Pros:
Clinical-strength 125mg dose for rapid iron repletion
Polysaccharide iron complex is well-tolerated at high doses
Trusted by medical professionals
Cons:
Should only be used under medical supervision due to high dose
Premium pricing reflects pharmaceutical-grade quality
Best for: Adults with clinically diagnosed iron deficiency who need high-dose supplementation under medical guidance
6. Hematex Liquid Iron Polysaccharide – Best Flavored High-Dose
Iron Supplement Liquid Iron High Potency Iron for Women & Adults by Llorens – 100mg Polysaccharide Iron Complex Iron Supplements for Anemia and Iron Deficiency, (Raspberry, 6 oz)
Liquid Iron Polysaccharide – Polysaccharide iron complex is readily absorbable, therefore it minimizes the side effects of stomach pain, irritation, and constipation that are normally caused by other forms of iron.
High Dose Iron – Hematex Liquid Iron Polysaccharide provides 100mg of polysaccharide iron complex for those who need it the most. It is a clinical high dose that has been shown to be more effective than other doses of iron.
Safe for Kids & Adults -Safe for kids and adults and it works to beat iron deficiency while still being gentle on the stomach. As a liquid iron supplement, it’s easy to take and requires no pill cutting or no bulky capsules.
Supports Energy Levels due to Iron Deficiency – Anemia occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. The polysaccharide iron complex helps to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Trusted Quality – Backed by Llorens, a brand known for its commitment to quality, our natural, vegan, and paraben-free liquid iron supplement is a reliable choice for those seeking an effective and flavorful solution to iron supplementation.
Hematex provides 100mg of polysaccharide iron complex in a chocolate caramel-flavored liquid that makes high-dose iron supplementation a surprisingly pleasant experience.
Taking high-dose iron is rarely enjoyable, but Hematex changes that equation with a chocolate caramel flavor that masks the metallic taste common in iron supplements. The polysaccharide iron complex is readily absorbable and minimizes the stomach pain, irritation, and constipation normally caused by other high-dose iron forms. Safe for both kids and adults, making it a versatile family option for households dealing with iron deficiency. Vegan, natural, and paraben-free. Backed by Llorens, a brand known for quality pharmaceutical-style supplements.
Pros:
Chocolate caramel flavor makes high-dose iron tolerable
Polysaccharide iron complex minimizes stomach issues
Safe for both kids and adults
Cons:
100mg dose requires medical supervision
Flavoring may not appeal to everyone
Best for: Those who need high-dose iron but struggle with the taste of unflavored liquid supplements
7. Nature’s Way Liquid Iron – Best Everyday Maintenance
No products found.
Nature’s Way provides 18mg of iron per serving as ferric glycinate in a berry-flavored, sugar-free liquid from one of the most established names in natural supplements.
This straightforward liquid iron delivers exactly the daily value of iron (18mg) in a form designed for daily maintenance rather than deficiency treatment. Ferric glycinate is a well-absorbed, gentle form of iron. The berry flavor makes it palatable without added sugar, and the 16 fl oz bottle provides excellent value with approximately 32 servings. Nature’s Way has been producing natural supplements since 1969, offering decades of quality assurance. No artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
Pros:
Trusted brand with over 50 years in the supplement industry
Berry flavor with no added sugar
Large 16 fl oz bottle offers great value
Cons:
18mg dose is for maintenance, not for treating deficiency
Ferric glycinate may not absorb as well as ferrous bisglycinate
Best for: Those who want a reliable daily liquid iron supplement for general maintenance from a trusted brand
8. Lunakai Vegan Iron Gummies – Best Gummy Alternative
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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.
For those who want the easy-to-take benefits of a non-pill iron but prefer gummies over liquid, Lunakai’s Vegan Iron Gummies deliver 18mg of iron with vitamin C, B12, and folate in a chewable format.
While not technically a liquid, gummies occupy a similar space for people who can’t or won’t swallow iron pills. Lunakai’s formula combines 18mg of iron with the key co-nutrients vegans need: vitamin C for absorption, plus B12 and folate for red blood cell support. The gummy format is gentle on the stomach — an important consideration since liquid and gummy forms tend to cause fewer GI issues than compressed tablets. USA-made in a GMP-certified facility.
Pros:
Comprehensive formula with iron, C, B12, and folate
Chewable format that’s even easier than liquid for some
No measuring or refrigeration required
Cons:
Not a true liquid — included as an alternative for pill-averse users
Contains added sugars
Best for: Those who want an easy-to-take iron supplement but find liquids messy or inconvenient
How to Choose the Best Liquid Iron Supplement
The type of iron used in a liquid supplement directly impacts absorption and side effects. Ferrochel (ferrous bisglycinate chelate) and polysaccharide iron complex (PIC) are the best-tolerated forms, causing significantly less constipation and nausea than ferrous sulfate. Ferrous gluconate, used in products like Floradix, sits in the middle — well-absorbed and reasonably gentle. For everyday maintenance, any of these forms at 10–18mg will suffice. For treating diagnosed deficiency, look for clinical-strength options with 50–125mg per dose.
Taste and flavor are particularly important with liquid iron because you’ll taste it directly. Look for products with natural fruit flavors (berry, cherry, blackberry) or unique options like chocolate caramel. Sugar-free formulas are preferable for daily long-term use. Be aware that many liquid irons can temporarily stain teeth — drinking through a straw and rinsing your mouth afterward helps prevent this.
Storage requirements vary significantly among liquid iron supplements. Most require refrigeration after opening and have a limited shelf life of 2–4 weeks once opened. Factor this into your purchasing decision — if you take iron sporadically rather than daily, smaller bottles or single-dose formats may be more practical to avoid waste.
As with any iron supplement, taking it with vitamin C (either included in the formula or from citrus juice) enhances absorption. Avoid taking liquid iron alongside coffee, tea, calcium supplements, or high-fiber meals, which can reduce absorption by 50% or more. Taking iron on an empty stomach maximizes absorption but may increase stomach sensitivity in some people.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of liquid iron over pills?
Liquid iron supplements offer three main advantages: easier swallowing (ideal for children, elderly, or anyone who dislikes pills), flexible dosing (you can easily adjust the amount with a measuring device), and potentially faster absorption since the iron is already in solution rather than needing to dissolve in the stomach. Liquid iron also tends to cause fewer GI issues than compressed iron tablets, though this varies by formulation.
How much liquid iron should I take daily?
For general maintenance, 10–18mg daily is sufficient for most adults. For diagnosed iron deficiency, your healthcare provider may recommend 50–125mg daily for 3–6 months until ferritin levels normalize. Always follow the dosing instructions on your specific product and consult a healthcare provider before exceeding the standard daily value of 18mg.
Does liquid iron stain teeth?
Liquid iron can temporarily darken or stain teeth, particularly formulas with darker colors. To prevent this, drink liquid iron through a straw positioned toward the back of your mouth, rinse your mouth with water immediately after taking it, and brush your teeth about 30 minutes later. Any staining that does occur is typically temporary and can be removed with regular dental cleaning.
When is the best time to take liquid iron?
Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach — ideally 30–60 minutes before breakfast or two hours after a meal. If this causes stomach discomfort, taking it with a small amount of food (preferably containing vitamin C) is acceptable, though absorption may be slightly reduced. Avoid taking iron within two hours of coffee, tea, dairy products, or calcium supplements.
Do liquid iron supplements need to be refrigerated?
Most liquid iron supplements require refrigeration after opening and have a shelf life of 2–4 weeks once the bottle is opened. Before opening, they can typically be stored at room temperature (59–77°F) in a cool, dry place. Always check the storage instructions on your specific product, as requirements vary. Unopened bottles generally have a shelf life of 1–2 years.
Can children take liquid iron supplements?
Many liquid iron supplements are formulated for family use and are safe for children aged 4 and up at reduced doses. Some brands, like NovaFerrum and MaryRuth’s, offer specific pediatric formulas for infants and toddlers. Always use the pediatric dosing guidelines on the product label and consult your child’s pediatrician before starting iron supplementation, as iron overdose is a leading cause of poisoning in children under six.