Q: Why this form of Iron?

A: Our Liquid Iron, ferrous bisglycinate chelate, is chelated for enhanced absorption and may be more tolerable on the stomach than iron salts. It has been found that this form of iron isn’t as inhibited when taken alongside food ingredients that typically lessen iron absorption (like polyphenols and phytate).1 Though there are many forms of iron available when it comes to supplementing, we believe that this form of iron may be the best choice for our customers.
 

Reference:

1. Iron and Chelation in Biochemistry and Medicine 
 

Q: I’ve heard you should take iron supplements with orange juice. Why is that?

A: Iron’s bioavailability is dependent upon several factors, including how it is taken, the source of iron, current iron status, and more.1 In one study, the absorption of iron from a standard meal was increased by 67% when taken with vitamin C.2 

The reason that many suggest taking vitamin C to increase iron absorption is that together, an iron salt and vitamin C can form an iron chelate, which may be more bioavailable.3,4,5 Since our form of iron is already highly-bioavailable Ferrochel®, otherwise known as ferrous bisglycinate chelate, taking vitamin C alongside this supplement may or may not make a difference. If you so wish, you may still choose to take your daily dose of iron with a glass of orange juice or with our Vitamin C Gummies, Megadose Vitamin C Liposomal or Vitamin C Drops!
 

References:

1. Iron bioavailability and dietary reference values 

2. Prediction of Dietary Iron Absorption:... 

3. Effects of Vitamin C on Iron Absorption 

4. Advantages and Limitations of Iron Amino Acid Chelates as Iron Fortificants 

5. Redox Interactions of Vitamin C and Iron: Inhibition of the Pro-Oxidant Activity by Deferiprone 
 

Q: Why not add Vitamin C to this formula?

A: We thought about it and decided not to add vitamin C to our formula. It came down to our customer requests! So many of you have requested that we make a straightforward iron supplement. We are always thinking ahead, though, and an Iron & Vitamin C just might be in our future if enough people request it! 
 

Q: Why is Iron important for pregnancy?

A: Iron is important during pregnancy for a number of reasons, as many physical changes are occurring in the mother’s body. One of the more commonly known reasons for an increased iron requirement during pregnancy is because this mineral is needed by the baby. However, it is also necessary because of an increase in maternal red blood cells and an iron demand from the placenta. Because of these reasons, iron deficiency can be more common during pregnancy. Therefore, increased iron ingestion is recommended to support both the baby’s growth and to help prevent Mom from experiencing fatigue or other effects of iron deficiency. 

While additional iron is usually needed during pregnancy, it is still our best recommendation to consult your physician or healthcare professional regarding your supplementation during pregnancy and otherwise. They can help to guide your choices, help you ascertain blood work analysis and determine the best supplement plan for you.   
 

Q: I’m also taking the Prenatal or Postnatal Probiotic. Is it ok to supplement with this Iron as well?

A: Our Prenatal & Postnatal Liquid Iron was formulated with 27 mg (100% DV) of iron for pregnant and lactating women. Though this product has a full daily value of iron, the Tolerable Upper Limit (UL) as determined by the Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board for iron intake in pregnant and lactating women is 45 mg. It is important to keep in mind that this UL also includes any iron that you are receiving outside of supplementation through your regular diet, too.
 

Our Probiotic Prenatal+ contains 18 mg of iron (67% DV) and our Probiotic Postnatal+ contains 9 mg (33% DV). Since our Prenatal & Postnatal Iron is in liquid form, you may choose to add this supplement to your daily regimen and take more or less than the recommended dosage based on your needs. 
 

As always, we recommend that you speak with your OB/GYN, physician or other healthcare professional to determine what is right for you and your pregnancy.