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If you suffer from anaemia, you may get a lot of benefit from an iron supplement. They used to be notorious for causing constipation. These days, however, if you take the right iron supplement in the right way, you’ll be able to digest it comfortably.
Best iron supplement for anaemia - no constipation
Here’s our round-up of the best iron supplements for anaemia on the UK market. We think there’s something for everyone.
Innopure Iron Supplement
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Tablets
- 14mg
- Ferrous Fumarate
- Vegan-Friendly
Iron supplement tablets used to have a bit of a reputation for being hard to swallow (physically) and hard to digest. Thankfully, time has moved on. These tablets are about 5mm in diameter and quite thin. They slip down easily and are gentle on the stomach.
If you do have any issues swallowing them, try popping them under the tongue. The body will reflexively want to dislodge the tablet and it will go down with the liquid.
Iron Supplement for Energy and Immunity - 3 Months Supply, 90 Tablets...
- OPTIMUM STRENGTH - Innopure Iron supplement provides 14mg, 100% of your RDA, in an easy to swallow one per day tablet. Iron plays a role in normal cognitive and healthy brain function and can help support diets that are naturally low in iron or iron rich food sources
- OPTIMUM STRENGTH - Innopure Iron supplement provides 14mg, 100% of your RDA, in an easy to swallow one per day tablet. Iron plays a role in normal cognitive and healthy brain function and can help support diets that are naturally low in iron or iron rich food sources
- VEGAN SOCIETY APPROVED - our Iron Tablets are approved by the Vegan Society and is suitable for both Vegetarians and Vegans
- PURE - Free from magnesium stearate, artificial fillers or binders, colours, flavours, sweeteners, starch, milk, lactose, soya, gluten, wheat, yeast or porcine
- PEACE OF MIND - Made in the UK using the highest purity ingredients and safeguarded by the highest manufacturing standards in the world - accredited BRC Global Standard for Food Safety, and GMP-Certified
- GIVING BACK - With your order, we donate to Vitamin Angels UK, our non-profit partner which helps increase access to nutritious foods for children from low-income families. Currently Vitamin Angels are reaching over 1,500 children daily with meals throughout the nursery network.
Solgar Gentle Iron
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Capsules
- 20 mg
- Ferrous bis-glycinate
- Vegan-Friendly
The “Gentle Iron” label is a reference to the fact that the capsules use Ferrous Bis-Glycinate. This form of iron is considered to be particularly easy to digest, as it passes through the stomach and small intestine without breaking apart. Although the capsules are branded as “Vegetable”, they are actually vegan-friendly. This is still quite unusual for capsules.
Solgar Gentle Iron 20 mg Vegetable Capsules - Pack of 90
- ✓ UNIQUE FORM OF IRON Solgar Gentle Iron, which contains iron in bisglycinate form, is easy to absorb and gentle on the stomach 1 tablet a day provides 20 mg of iron in ferrous bisglycinate form, equalling 143% of the Nutrient Reference Values
- ✓ UNIQUE FORM OF IRON Solgar Gentle Iron, which contains iron in bisglycinate form, is easy to absorb and gentle on the stomach 1 tablet a day provides 20 mg of iron in ferrous bisglycinate form, equalling 143% of the Nutrient Reference Values
- ✓ GENTLE ON THE STOMACH Solgar Gentle Iron is ideal for those who find traditional iron supplements difficult to take and/or may cause bloating, constipation and digestive issues Solgar’s formula contains iron bisglycinate, a form of iron which is tolerated well by sensitive stomachs
- ✓COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY - For over 70 years we've used 100% recyclable amber glass bottles
- ✓ NATURAL WELLNESS - We believe that cleaner is better, we craft our vitamins and minerals in small batches to help ensure consistency and purity from bottle to bottle
- ✓GOLD STANDARD - All Solgar products meet our industry recognized “Gold Standard” for excellence, made using naturally sourced ingredients and innovating since 1947
Vitabiotics Feroglobin Liquid
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Liquid
- 14mg
- Ferric Ammonium Citrate
- Contains honey
Vitabiotics Feroglobin Liquid - 200 ml
- Feeling Tired? - Feroglobin contains vitamins B6 & B12 which contribute to normal energy release plus iron and folate which contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- Gentle Iron Support - Feroglobin Liquid is a delicious honey and orange flavour liquid iron formula with nutrients to help maintain health and vitality, including folate which contributes to the reduction of tiredness & fatigue
- Feeling Tired? - Feroglobin contains vitamins B6 & B12 which contribute to normal energy release plus iron and folate which contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- Gentle Iron Support - Feroglobin Liquid is a delicious honey and orange flavour liquid iron formula with nutrients to help maintain health and vitality, including folate which contributes to the reduction of tiredness & fatigue
- Supports Oxygen Transport - Feroglobin Liquid contains Iron which contributes to normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin, aiding in normal oxygen transport in the body
- Who is This For - Feroglobin Liquids specific blood building nutrients are ideal for whatever age and may be of particular benefit for over 50s, athletes, and women during menstruation or pregnancy. It is also suitable for children over 3 years
We have absolutely no idea what makes Swiss malt any different from any other sort of malt, but not only does this liquid iron supplement perform well, it tastes really good too.
We have to say that we’re not entirely clear on whether or not this liquid iron supplement is suitable for very young children. According to the product description, it’s suitable for children aged one and older but according to the label on the back of the bottle, it’s suitable for children aged three and older.
Vitabiotics Feroglobin Fizz Tablets
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Soluble tablets
- 17mg
- Ferrous Sulphate
- Vegan-Friendly
We absolutely love this product. Tablets are convenient to store and dose, but liquids slide down more easily. Now you can have the best of both worlds with these soluble “fizz tablets”. The taste is a bit metallic but mostly it’s like drinking a fairly sweet orange squash.
Vitabiotics Feroglobin Fizz Tablets, 20 pack
- Iron together with nutrients such as vitamins B6, B12 and C contribute to normal energy release, and help reduce tiredness and fatigue
- Item display weight: 59.0 grams
- Number of items: 1.0
- Iron is a vital mineral and contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells, haemoglobin, and normal oxygen transport in the body
- Iron together with nutrients such as vitamins B6, B12 and C contribute to normal energy release, and help reduce tiredness and fatigue
- Item display weight: 59.0 grams
- Number of items: 1.0
- Iron is a vital mineral and contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells, haemoglobin, and normal oxygen transport in the body
- A refreshing alternative to Iron tablets or capsules
- Liquid food supplement providing iron, zinc, copper and B vitamins
PatchMD Iron PlusTM
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Patches
- 45mg
- Ferrous bis-glycinate
- Vegan-Friendly
Patches are a new one on us but we like them a lot. According to the packet, the patches are free from fillers, latex, lactose, gluten and sugar. They are also 100% cruelty-free/not tested on animals.
The patches are not waterproof, but the adhesive is good without being so strong it hurts when you remove them. If you did have any issues, you could use medical tape as a backup.
Transdermal delivery releases iron slowly, making it easier for the body to process it (basically the body can take its time) plus the iron completely bypasses the stomach and liver, thus avoiding gut irritation and increasing bioavailability/efficacy.
This product takes about 8 hours to work. It’s safe to leave the patches on longer (for example if you need extra sleep) but there’s no benefit to doing so. We think they’d be great to use overnight so you wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
Senna Tea Fruit & Leaves 30g Natural Laxative | BteaCo for Kuker...
- NATURAL CONSTIPATION RELIEF WITH FLAT TUMMY TEA: Discover gentle, effective relief from constipation with KUKER's senna tea bags. Our premium blend, acting as a superb laxative, incorporates senna leaves and fruits, known for their natural properties. This tea serves as a slim tea for weight loss, promoting a lighter, more comfortable you with every sip. Ideal for integrating into your tea diet tox routine.
- NATURAL CONSTIPATION RELIEF WITH FLAT TUMMY TEA: Discover gentle, effective relief from constipation with KUKER's senna tea bags. Our premium blend, acting as a superb laxative, incorporates senna leaves and fruits, known for their natural properties. This tea serves as a slim tea for weight loss, promoting a lighter, more comfortable you with every sip. Ideal for integrating into your tea diet tox routine.
- NIGHTTIME TEA FOR DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: KUKER offers a diet tea ideal for bedtime support and acts as a nighttime tea as well that soothes your stomach, promoting restful sleep. This senna leaf tea, great for those searching for a skinny tea weight loss option, calms your digestive system, ensuring you wake up feeling rejuvenated. A favourite among those looking for a ballerina tea for weight loss, it stands out as a choice for flat tummy aspirations.
- PREMIUM TEA TOX BLEND FOR WEIGHT LOSS: Experience our Chinese slimming tea bags, a high-quality blend of senna leaf and fruit. Each bag is designed for consistent flavour and efficacy, reflecting our commitment to natural remedies. This colon cleanse tea is more than just a detox; it's a testament to nature's effectiveness, serving as an ideal slim tea for weight loss, supported by the herbal tea company expertise.
- CONVENIENT AND EFFECTIVE SLIM TEA FOR WEIGHT LOSS: Enjoy the convenience and efficacy of KUKER's Chinese detox tea bags. Each box contains 20 individually wrapped chinese weight loss tea bags, maintaining freshness and potency. This solution is ideal for those with a busy lifestyle seeking flat tummy tea benefits, offering a straightforward way to tap into senna's natural properties as part of your digestive tea diet tox.
- LIGHT, REFRESHING, AND SOOTHING SKINNY TEA WEIGHT LOSS: KUKER's detox tea for weight loss and belly fat impresses with its light, refreshing taste. The unique blend of senna leaves and fruit makes this colon tea enjoyable at any time of the day. Ideal for those seeking digestive relief or a calming beverage, this senna leaf tea is a great pick for anyone on a tea diet tox, looking for a slim tea for weight loss that soothes while it works.
Honourable mention to Spatone Liquid Iron Supplement Apple Flavour with Vitamin C
Quite bluntly, this product is probably only worth a look if you have very mild anaemia. That’s why it’s an honourable mention rather than a full recommendation. That said, if you do have mild anaemia, it’s definitely well worth a look.
PRODUCT DETAIL
- Liquid
- 5mg
- Ferrous Sulphate
- Vegan-Friendly
Spatone is made from the iron-rich water found in the area of the Trefriw Wells Spa in Snowdonia. It’s sold in single-use sachets making it convenient for use on the go. The apple flavour is pretty decent and makes a nice change from the usual orange-flavour-based offerings.
Senokot Max Strength Natural Senna Tablets for Constipation Relief, Pack of 48
- EFFECTIVE CONSTIPATION RELIEF: Senokot Max Strength tablets are a clinically proven medicine for short-term occasional constipation. They work by stimulating the large intestine to promote bowel movement
- EFFECTIVE CONSTIPATION RELIEF: Senokot Max Strength tablets are a clinically proven medicine for short-term occasional constipation. They work by stimulating the large intestine to promote bowel movement
- CONTAINS NATURAL SENNA: Which is a natural laxative made from the leaves and fruit of the senna plant. Senokot is sometimes misspelt Sennakot
- WORKS WITHIN 8-12 HOURS, PROVIDING EFFECTIVE OVERNIGHT RELIEF: Senokot senna laxative tablets usually take between 8 and 12 hours to work, providing predictable overnight relief in one dose. Take one constipation tablet at night. Caffeine free and sugar free
- SENOKOT STRONGEST EVER FORMULA: Senokot tablets are clinically proven to be Senokot’s strongest formula for short-term and occasional constipation. 2x the strength of Senokot tablets
- DISCREET DELIVERY: Senokot senna tablets will be posted in plain packaging with no identification of what is inside the parcel
Taking your iron supplement the right way
So now that you’ve found the best iron supplement, you need to take it in the right way for it to have the best effect.
Take your iron supplement as directed
This may seem like stating the obvious, but read the instructions and follow them. Most iron supplements will tell you to take them with a meal. Make sure that you do so. When you eat a full meal your stomach is active and primed with digestive juices. This helps it to tackle the iron. If you take an iron supplement on an empty stomach you may wind up making yourself feel sick.
A lot of iron supplements will suggest that you take them with some form of Vitamin C as this helps with iron absorption. Many will suggest orange juice. This is probably the obvious choice, but it isn’t the only one.
In addition to oranges and other citrus fruits, you can get a lot of Vitamin C from potatoes (especially with their skins on) brussels sprouts, broccoli, green and red peppers, strawberries and blackcurrants.
It’s advisable to avoid eating calcium-rich foods when you take your iron supplement as there is some evidence that calcium hinders iron absorption.
Pay attention to your overall diet
Taking an iron supplement (or any supplement) should never be seen as an excuse to eat an unhealthy diet. You should still be doing your best to eat an appropriate combination of fibre, protein and carbohydrate as well as doing your best to get plenty of vitamins and minerals.
If you are using an iron supplement, then it’s particularly important to make sure that you get plenty of fibre. If, however, you’re not in the habit of eating a lot of fibre, then making a sudden change could upset your stomach. Increase your fibre intake gradually but try to consume as much fibre as you can when you take your iron supplement.
You may also want to try drinking kefir, although not when you’re taking your iron supplement as it’s full of calcium. This is a fermented milk drink, which is full of yeast and beneficial probiotic bacteria. If you don’t like the taste, you can easily disguise it. For example, you can add fruits to make a smoothie or mix it with regular milk to have with cereal.
Drink plenty of liquid (preferably water)
Water cleanses the body and helps digestion. If you can’t face water on its own, then stick to liquids which are mostly water such as caffeine-free beverages, fruit juices and milk. You will, however, have to be careful with milk because of the calcium content.
Remember that if you eat plenty of fibre, you will need plenty of water (or similar liquid) to help it pass through your digestive system. If you’re increasing your intake of fibre, then you also need to increase your intake of water.
Fizzy drinks (at least the sugar-free ones), caffeinated beverages and alcohol can all be enjoyed in moderation, but be careful to avoid overdoing it.
Get active
Iron is often used as a symbol of strength and there’s a good reason for this. If taking an iron supplement helps your anaemia, you’re likely to find that your energy levels improve. If you can put this to good use by increasing the amount of exercise you take, you’ll reap all kinds of benefits.
On a practical level, exercise stimulates the body’s systems and that includes the digestive system. It also boosts your physical energy and encourages mental positivity, thus continuing the good work of the iron supplement.
Go as soon as you’re ready
Putting off going to the toilet irritates your digestive system and can actually lead to issues with constipation. If you’re already feeling constipated, it can make things worse. Basically, listen to your body and do what it tells you rather than what you think you ought to do.
Have a constipation remedy handy
There are three main ways you can tackle constipation.
- Rub around your stomach in a clockwise direction. This can help to stimulate the natural digestive path. Never rub your stomach in an anti-clockwise direction as this can make the problem worse!
- Eat something rich in fibre. If you’re at home and you’re feeling hungry then anything involving beans, peas or lentils is a good choice as is anything with potato or sweet potato (especially if you leave the skin on). If you’re not at home, but you are quite hungry, try an apple or a pear. If you’re not really that hungry, try prunes, kiwi fruit or figs.
- Use a laxative. If you’re picking up an iron supplement, you might want to add a packet or two of senna tea. This is a natural laxative and is vegan-friendly. If you need something stronger, then Senokot has been providing effective relief for years. It does, however, contain lactose so it’s not suitable for vegans.
In short
Anaemia can be temporary (for example caused by pregnancy) or long-term, but either way it doesn’t have to get you down. A combination of a high-quality iron supplement and a healthy lifestyle can have you feeling strong, energetic and generally ready for anything.
Fitness, health, blogging and Psychology are my main interests. I’ve worked in many roles from product designer to engineer working with many products from fitness equipment and spa products to this role as a hands-on webmaster. Avid gym-go’er and captain of the good ship Fitness Authority
