Iron

Buy iron: iron bisglycinate, liposomal iron and more

Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs for the transport of oxygen in the blood. Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin and to normal oxygen transport in the body. In addition, iron contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, to the normal function of the immune system and to normal cognitive function. In our range you will find iron in forms such as iron bisglycinate, often combined with vitamin C, and as liposomal iron.

What is iron and what does it do?

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a central role in the blood. According to the permitted health claims, iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin and to normal oxygen transport in the body. In addition, iron contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, to the normal function of the immune system, to normal cognitive function and plays a role in the cell division process. The label of each product states how much iron is provided per serving, expressed in milligrams.

Iron and energy-yielding metabolism

Iron contributes to normal oxygen transport, normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. If an iron deficiency is suspected, it is advisable to have this confirmed by a doctor, because both a deficiency and an excessive intake are undesirable.

What is iron found in?

Iron occurs in two forms in food. Heme iron, from animal products such as (red) meat, fish and poultry, is relatively well absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron, from plant sources such as legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables, is less well absorbed. Vitamin C increases iron absorption; substances such as phytic acid (in grains) and tannins (in tea and coffee) inhibit absorption. Anyone who wants to specifically supplement their iron intake can choose an iron supplement.

Iron with vitamin C and the form iron bisglycinate

Iron is offered in various forms in supplements. Iron bisglycinate is iron that is bound to the amino acid glycine; in addition, classic forms such as ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulphate exist. There is also liposomal iron, in which the iron is packaged in small fat globules, a technique aimed at absorption. Iron is often combined with vitamin C, because vitamin C increases iron absorption. When comparing, pay attention to the amount of elemental iron per serving.

How much iron per day?

The recommended daily amount of iron varies by group: for adult men, this is around 11 mg, while women of childbearing age have a higher need (around 16 mg) due to blood loss during menstruation. Do not take high doses of iron without reason, because too much iron is not desirable. Stick to the recommended dosage on the packaging and, if in doubt, if a deficiency is suspected or if you are taking medication, seek advice from a doctor.

Buy iron: what to look for?

When choosing an iron supplement, a few points are important. Look at the amount of elemental iron per serving in milligrams and at the form used, such as iron bisglycinate or liposomal iron. Vitamin C increases iron absorption, which is why many products contain both. Determine whether you are looking for a standalone iron supplement or a combination, and pay attention to the purity and the price per daily serving. Iron is an essential mineral; for related products, also view our collections Minerals and Vitamin C.

Want to know more? Read our explanation what ferritin is.