Iron is considered an essential mineral needed for healthy growth and development. Iron is a part of many proteins (e.g., hemoglobin, myoglobin, DNA synthesis proteins, etc.). It serves as a cofactor for several enzymes (e.g., cytochromes, electron transport proteins, P450 detoxification enzymes, etc.). Iron also facilitates the normal synthesis of certain hormones (e.g., thyroid hormones) and maintains healthy muscles and connective tissues.^†

Iron requires certain supporting nutrients for efficient absorption and utilization. Low levels of these nutrients can make it difficult to increase iron levels even with supplementation of iron pills. These supportive nutrients are included in Optimal Iron.^†

• Vitamin C is known to help with the absorption of ferrous iron. Vitamin C reacts with iron in the intestinal tract to form a compound that is easier for the body to absorb.
• Vitamin A: Iron deficiency and vitamin A deficiency often run concurrently. The combination of vitamin A and iron is thought to reduce iron deficiencies faster than supplemental iron alone. Vitamin A may help to transport and distribute iron throughout the body. It may also facilitate the mobilization of iron from storage to make hemoglobin.^†
• Riboflavin: Deficiency in this essential B vitamin may impair iron absorption, increase intestinal loss of iron, and impair iron utilization for the synthesis of hemoglobin (Hb).^†
• Copper: Ceruloplasmin is a copper-containing enzyme that plays a role in iron metabolism. Ceruloplasmin, and thus copper, may be necessary for proper iron transport to the bone marrow for red blood cell production. Copper deficiency can lead to secondary ceruloplasmin deficiency and hepatic iron overload. Copper supplementation may help to restore normal levels of ceruloplasmin and ferroxidase activity.^†
• Biotin: This essential B vitamin is a cofactor for the pyruvate carboxylase and methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase enzymes. Both of these enzymes are involved in heme synthesis. Biotin deficiency appears to lower heme levels in cells.^†
• Betaine HCl: Healthy levels of stomach acidity are crucial for iron absorption. Betaine HCl may help to support absorption, which is particularly important for poorly-absorbed nonheme iron.^†
• Lipase: This digestive enzyme aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamin A. Healthy vitamin A levels may help to support iron absorption.^†

Unlike many standalone iron supplements, Optimal Iron includes the nutrients your body needs to efficiently absorb, transport, and utilize iron. It is an ideal choice if you have stubborn low iron levels.^†

Many forms of iron lead to adverse reactions such as nausea, upset stomach, or constipation. Optimal Iron is a gentle iron complex ideal for those sensitive to most iron supplements. Iron in the form of Ferrochel^® Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate is well-absorbed and well-tolerated.^†

If you are struggling with iron deficiency or anemia, you may need more than just iron. Talk to your healthcare team about Optimal Iron. For a smaller serving of iron, consider our Iron Chewable. As with all iron dietary supplements, we recommend consulting with your healthcare professional to test your iron levels prior to use. Continue monitoring your iron levels and intake when taking iron dietary supplements.^†