Best Iron Pills For Anemia

Iron is an important mineral that helps the body in many ways. It plays a key role in carrying oxygen, making hormones, supporting growth, and helping the brain develop. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that moves oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It is also found in myoglobin, which helps muscles store and use oxygen.

If the body doesn’t have enough iron, it can cause iron deficiency anemia (IDA), a condition where there aren’t enough red blood cells. In these cases, doctors may suggest iron supplements to help restore iron levels and improve red blood cell production.

What Are The Best Iron Pills For Anemia?

There are two kinds of iron pills for anemia – heme iron pills and non-heme iron pills. Heme iron comes from animal sources and non-heme iron comes from plant sources.  While both these forms can raise iron levels, their bioavailability and potential for side effects can differ.

The best iron pill for anemia can vary depending on individual needs and tolerances. Generally, iron pills that work best for anemia are the ones that increase your iron levels while causing fewer stomach problems and other side effects.

It is recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional to figure out the most suitable type and dosage of iron supplement for your specific situation.

Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia

IDA occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells.

This can be due to not getting enough iron in your diet, needing more iron than usual (such as during pregnancy), your body having trouble absorbing iron, or losing blood. You may lose blood because of heavy periods, having a baby, or even stomach ulcers.

Symptoms of IDA can include fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating. However, some individuals with low iron may not experience any symptoms.

Iron Supplements

Oral iron supplements are generally recommended as the first treatment option for iron deficiency anemia because they can be easily administered, are widely accessible at most pharmacies, and are more cost-effective than alternative treatments such as intravenous iron therapy. These supplements come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. The goal of supplementation is to replenish iron stores and increase hemoglobin levels in the blood.

It typically takes at least 3 months of daily oral iron supplementation to replenish iron stores. Healthcare professionals may recommend continuing supplementation even after hemoglobin levels return to normal.

Best Iron Supplements For Women

OptiFer Alpha is a heme-based iron supplement known for its gentle absorption and minimal stomach discomfort. Many doctors across Canada specifically recommend it and patients report that it effectively raises iron levels without causing constipation or digestive problems. The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research highlights that OptiFer Alpha is efficiently absorbed through the specialized heme-receptor in the intestine, which explains its improved tolerability. As always, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen, to ensure you’re taking the appropriate type and dosage for your specific health needs.

Iron Dosage: How Much Iron Should You Take?

The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for iron vary based on age, sex, and life stage. In Canada, females aged 19 to 50 need 18mg of iron daily, while males in the same age range need only 8mg of iron.

For individuals with iron deficiency, the recommended daily dose is going to change depending on the type of iron supplement you take. This is particularly the case with heme iron, which is absorbed easily with fewer side effects than non-heme iron.

When Is It Best To Take Iron Supplements?

The best time to take iron supplements is the time recommended on your supplement label. Some iron supplements may recommend taking it in the morning with meals, while others may recommend taking it on an empty stomach. With non-heme iron supplements, you need to avoid tea and coffee.

If you are on a heme iron supplement, such as OptiFer Alpha, you can just take it with food. There is no need to avoid caffeine or include orange juice to help with absorption because your body absorbs heme iron better.

Summary

Iron plays a crucial role in oxygen transport, hormone production, and muscle function. When iron levels drop too low, the body develops IDA, leading to fatigue and weakness. To restore iron levels, doctors often recommend supplements, which come in two forms: heme (from animal sources) and non-heme (from plant sources). The body absorbs heme iron, such as OptiFer Alpha, more efficiently and with fewer side effects. Generally, people need at least three months of supplementation, with dosage depending on individual needs. Unlike non-heme iron, heme iron works well with food and doesn’t require dietary adjustments.

References

Cleveland Clinic: Iron Oral Supplements for Anemia

Healthline: Dietitians’ Picks: 9 of the Best Iron Supplements for 2025

Amazon Canada: Best Sellers in Iron Mineral Supplements

WebMD: Iron Supplements for Anemia

Canadian Blood Services: Treating Iron Deficiency with Oral Iron Supplements: What Is the Best Dosing Frequency?