Why iron supplementation is often difficult to maintain
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. When a deficiency is diagnosed, a GP often recommends iron supplementation. Many people find it difficult to keep up with this.
Many people who take iron supplements report gastrointestinal complaints, such as constipation, nausea, cramps, bloating, and dark stools (Tolkien et al., 2015). Some therefore lower the dose or stop taking it altogether. This creates a vicious circle: you need iron, you take iron, you get side effects, you stop, and the deficiency persists.
The chemistry behind intestinal irritation
Standard iron supplements release iron in ionic form in the gut. There, ionic iron—especially ferrous sulfate—can act as a pro-oxidant: it reacts to form reactive oxygen species that can irritate the intestinal mucosa. In addition, unabsorbed iron can affect the gut flora.
Commonly used forms of iron
- Ferrous sulfate the most frequently prescribed and cheapest form, and the one most commonly associated with gastrointestinal complaints
- Ferrous fumarate good bioavailability. This is the form we process liposomally.
- Iron bisglycinate is generally better tolerated, but is also released in the gut
How liposomal iron is different
With liposomal iron, the iron is encapsulated in a double layer of phospholipids before it reaches the digestive system. The idea behind this is that the iron comes into less direct contact with the intestinal mucosa. There are studies comparing liposomal iron with ferrous sulfate; research into its tolerability is in full swing.
The PPH formula
- 17 mg iron (121% of the reference intake)
- Ferrous fumarate, a highly absorbable form
- Ascorbic acid as an antioxidant
- Sunflower lecithin (GMO-free)
Conclusion
An iron deficiency requires an approach that you can actually stick to. Always have a deficiency diagnosed and monitored by your GP, and discuss with them which form is right for you.
Because your vitality is not optional — it is essential.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- Tolkien, Z. et al. (2015). Ferrous Sulfate Supplementation Causes Significant GI Side-Effects in Adults. PLOS ONE. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25700159/
- Piskin, E. et al. (2022). Iron absorption: Factors, limitations, and improvement methods. ACS Omega. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35647927/
- Moretti, D. et al. (2018). Oral iron supplements increase hepcidin. Blood. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25931582/
