Have you done the test, seen the doctor, and confirmed you’re pregnant? Congratulations!
However, if your doctor has recommended an iron supplement, you may find yourself overwhelmed quickly. There are so many options on the market; it gets confusing after a while.
We’ve taken the time to study all the top brands and have tried quite a few during our own pregnancies. We’ll take the guesswork out of the process and explain how to choose the best iron supplement for your pregnancy.
We rated these supplements based on the types and amounts of iron in each, which are better absorbed by the body with the fewest side effects, and — of course — which ones taste best. Whether you prefer tablets, capsules, liquids, or chewables, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also talk about why iron is important during pregnancy and which foods you can eat more of to increase your iron stores naturally.
- With beetroot to help lower blood pressure
- Proven effective in a clinical study
- Certified kosher & GMO-free
- Certified gluten-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Blueberry flavored
- From organic plants & fruits
- Can be added to juice or water
- No binders or fillers
- Tastes like fruit
- Non-constipating
- No yeast or gluten
- Tastes great
- Gentle on stomach
- Natural ingredients
Review Methodology: At Mom Loves Best, we understand the importance of finding the right iron supplement for a healthy pregnancy. Our team of professionals conducts thorough research, in-depth analysis, and hands-on assessments to provide you with accurate and reliable information. We evaluate products from a user’s perspective, comparing and ranking them based on criteria such as performance, effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. Our extensive experience in the field allows us to identify the key decision-making factors, such as dosage, form, and absorption rate, which we use to rate the products. We also examine the design choices and their impact on users, providing first-hand evidence to support our recommendations. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about the best iron supplements for pregnancy, considering factors such as prenatal health, anemia prevention, and the overall well-being of both mother and baby. Trust our expertise and let us guide you through this important journey.
The Best Pregnancy Iron Supplements of 2024
These five iron supplements are the best options we’ve found for increasing iron levels during pregnancy.
MegaFood Blood Builder
Best Overall
This multivitamin and iron supplement from Mega Food is gentle on the stomach and should not cause constipation. It contains 26 milligrams of iron and also has vitamin C to help iron absorption and vitamin B12 and folates for pregnancy health.
It’s available in four sizes, from 30 to 180 tablets. This is great because you can save money by buying in bulk.
Another great thing about these tablets is they are suitable for vegans and vegetarians. They are certified kosher and free from GMOs. They have no dairy or soy and are also gluten-free.
Pros
- It also contains beetroot to help lower blood pressure (1).
- Helps boost iron levels and prevent fatigue.
- Tablets are designed to be easy to swallow.
Cons
- Some find the tablets taste metallic.
Our Ratings
User Experience
Pure Encapsulations Liquid Iron
Best Liquid
Flavored with blueberries, this liquid supplement from Pure Encapsulations is suitable for vegans and vegetarians and is an excellent option for expectant moms. The recommended daily dosage of 15 milliliters will supply 25 milligrams of iron.
What I like best about this iron supplement, besides its being in liquid form, is that it is hypoallergenic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from preservatives and artificial coloring. The addition of vitamins C, B12, and E enhances the formula, allowing you to absorb the iron easily and boost your hemoglobin production.
Pros
- Certified gluten-free.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Blueberry flavored.
- Many moms like the taste.
Cons
- Contains less iron than other brands.
- Expensive formula only lasts about 3 weeks.
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Garden of Life Iron Complex
Best Capsule
This product is certified vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and made from natural plant products. It is delivered in a single capsule, measuring less than 1 inch. However, if you find these too hard to swallow, you can break the capsules open and add the contents to a glass of juice or water.
As well as having 22 milligrams of plant-based iron, it also contains vitamin B12, vitamin C, and folates. It is easily digested and does not upset your stomach.
I particularly like that it also contains probiotics and enzymes, which can help support digestive health. They help the good bacteria in your stomach and help prevent diarrhea or constipation (2).
Pros
- Made from organic natural plants and fruits.
- You can open the capsules and add to juice or water.
- Does not contain any binders or fillers.
Cons
- Only 30 capsules in the bottle.
- Only 22 milligrams of iron.
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Floravital Liquid Iron Supplement
Best Vegan Supplement
Want an iron supplement that’s free from weird unnamed chemicals? Or do you have kosher dietary needs? Then Floravital is your supplement.
This brand offers a formula that is free from preservatives, artificial coloring, gluten, GMO, lactose, yeast, and more. Yet, it has been licensed by the FDA as providing the recommended daily allowance of iron for all women of childbearing age.
This was my go-to supplement during pregnancy and at other times when I needed an iron boost. Whether you’re pregnant, lactating, expecting, or menstruating, Floravital is a good option for you.
Because it uses ferrous gluconate and fruit and herbal extracts, this supplement tastes good and won’t stop up your bowels. What’s more, it also contains vitamins C and B.
Pros
- It tastes like fruit.
- No constipation.
- Safe for all women of childbearing age.
Cons
- Needs to be refrigerated.
- Expires within four weeks of opening.
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Natures Plus Chewable Iron Supplement
Best Chewable Tablets
These chewable tablets will deliver a dose of 27 milligrams of iron per tablet. They are suitable for vegetarians and are gluten-free. The natural ingredients make these gentle on the stomach, and we love the cherry flavor.
Added vitamin C will help your body absorb the iron it needs from this product.
These are made in the U.S. and are free from artificial preservatives and colorings. You only need to take one a day, so with 90 tablets in the bottle, they should last three months.
Pros
- Many love the cherry flavor.
- Gentle on the stomach.
- Natural ingredients.
Cons
- Does not contain any added vitamins or folates.
Our Ratings
User Experience
The Importance of Iron During Pregnancy
Iron is a mineral our bodies need to stay healthy. Red blood cells contain most of the iron in our body in a pigment called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen to the cells, organs, and tissues where it’s needed.
When our iron levels get low, so does our hemoglobin. This is bad news, as it reduces the oxygen supply in our blood. Anemia is the name given to low hemoglobin levels.
The normal levels during the first and last trimester of pregnancy are considered to be above 11 grams per deciliter. This changes during the second trimester, when they can be slightly lower, at 10.5 grams per deciliter.
You might feel like a pin cushion during pregnancy, having samples taken all the time. It is necessary, though, to make sure all is well. One of the things checked during blood tests is your iron levels.
Doctors will also check how much iron your body has stored. Yes, it can retain a certain amount of iron for when it’s needed. If you have depleted your stores and your hemoglobin levels are low, you’ll need iron supplements (3).
In addition to supplying nutrients for two, you are also supplying blood for two when you’re pregnant, so your blood supply increases. You will need about double the amount of iron you normally do, about 27 milligrams per day.
If you’re deficient in iron, you can start to feel tired, weak, and dizzy. Your pregnancy glow can wane, and you will look pale and probably find yourself breathless. On top of all your other pregnancy symptoms, this is no walk in the park (4).
One surprising way to increase your iron stores naturally is to cook some of your food in an old-fashioned cast iron skillet, which will leach iron into your meals. You can also add iron-rich foods to your diet. However, these means may not be enough, and your doctor may recommend you add an iron supplement to your vitamin regime.
How to Choose an Iron Supplement
Narrowing down the ingredients that will benefit you can help you make an informed decision when choosing an iron supplement. Here are some of the things you should look for.
Iron Content
We have mentioned that you should have 27 milligrams of iron a day during pregnancy. Remember, this won’t only come from a supplement — your body will absorb some from food as well. A lower dose in a supplement is fine as long as you’re also getting lots of iron from your diet (5).
Vitamins
Many iron supplements also contain vitamin C and other vitamins, like B12 and folates (vitamin B9). Vitamin C helps you absorb the iron, while the B vitamins help prevent congenital disorders like spina bifida and central nervous system disorders. Folates also help with the production of red blood cells, helping prevent anemia.
Tablet, Capsule, or Liquid
Iron supplements often have a metallic taste, and some tablets and capsules can be large. If you find you can’t swallow what looks like a horse pill, you can choose a liquid or chewable tablet supplement instead.
Different Types of Iron
In supplements, you’ll find various iron sources such as elemental iron, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous sulfate, to name a few. You might find one type suits you better than another. If the one you choose gives you many side effects, change to a different type. Your health care provider should be able to advise you as to which type of iron you need.
Take Note
Foods That Increase Iron Levels
Many foods contain iron, and eating them can boost your levels. This is by far the best way to get that essential mineral into your body.
Some forms of iron come from animals, and others are found in plants. While both contain iron, it’s not the same type.
Animal sources contain heme iron that is absorbed easier than the non-heme iron found in plants. These are some iron-rich foods you can add to your diet to help increase your iron levels (6):
Animal Sources
- Meat: beef, turkey, lamb, chicken, pork, veal, and liver.
- Seafood: mackerel, haddock, sardines, and shrimp.
- Shellfish: clams, scallops, and oysters.
- Eggs
Avoid raw or unpasteurized eggs, and limit fish that contain mercury.
Plant Sources
- Vegetables: spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli, string beans, peas, and tomato products.
- Fruits: dates, strawberries, figs, prunes, other dried fruits, and watermelon.
- Bread: whole wheat, rye, and enriched white.
- Cereals: bran and oats.
- Beans and lentils: kidney, white beans, lentils, and dried peas.
- Syrups: corn syrup, maple syrup, and molasses.
- Other proteins: tofu and peanut butter.
Our bodies absorb iron better when it’s accompanied by vitamin C. So help yourself to a nice chilled glass of orange juice with your iron-rich foods. If you’re having cereal, chop up some fresh strawberries in it (7).
Tea, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks are not your friends when it comes to iron absorption. Caffeine reduces the uptake of iron from your food or supplements. If you must have your daily caffeine fix, make sure you consume it a few hours after taking an iron supplement or eating an iron-rich meal (8).
Another thing that can interfere with iron absorption is calcium. Make sure you don’t take a calcium supplement at the same time as an iron supplement. And avoid milk and other dairy products for an hour before and two hours after taking iron (9).
Side Effects of Iron Supplements
Some common side effects of iron supplements include constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. I know, you already have enough to contend with when you’re pregnant without adding more to the mix.
If your supplement makes you feel sick, try not to take it on an empty stomach. If it still causes you trouble, try a different type. You can also keep constipation at bay by increasing your fluid and fiber intake.
If any side effects are bothersome, speak to your health care provider for advice and support (10).
FAQs
What are the Symptoms of Low Iron In Pregnancy?
Symptoms of low iron during pregnancy can include fatigue, muscle weakness, paling skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances like ice or dirt (pica).
If you suspect you have low iron, it’s important to get a blood test and consult with your healthcare provider.
Is It OK to Take Iron Supplements With Prenatal Vitamins?
It’s generally okay to take iron supplements with prenatal vitamins, as many prenatal vitamins include iron in their formulations. However, the amount of iron in prenatal vitamins might not be sufficient for some women, and additional supplementation could be necessary.
Can Too Much Iron Be Harmful Pregnancy?
Yes, too much iron can be harmful during pregnancy, leading to conditions like constipation, nausea, and, in severe cases, iron toxicity. It’s important to take iron supplements only as prescribed and maintain regular monitoring of your iron levels.
Which Form of Iron is Best Absorbed?
The form of iron best absorbed by the body is typically ferrous sulfate, though some people might find ferrous gluconate or ferrous fumarate easier to tolerate. Vitamin C can enhance absorption, so taking iron supplements with a source of vitamin C can be beneficial.
When Should I Take Iron: Morning or Night?
Iron supplements can be taken either in the morning or at night, but they may be better absorbed when taken on an empty stomach.
If they cause stomach upset, taking them with a small amount of food or at bedtime might reduce discomfort. Avoid taking iron with calcium-rich foods or supplements, as calcium can inhibit iron absorption.
How Long Does It Take to Get My Iron Levels Up?
The time it takes to increase your iron levels will vary. It depends on the severity of the deficiency, the dosage of iron you’re taking, and individual factors like your diet and overall health.
It typically takes several weeks to several months to restore iron levels to a normal range.
