Liquid Iron Supplements: A Guide

by Cara Hayes Updated on March 25, 2024

While taking iron supplements with the hope to balance iron levels, usually in the form of traditional capsules or tablets, some people have trouble swallowing pills or experience gastrointestinal side effects from iron tablets.

This has led to an increasing interest in liquid iron supplements as an alternative. Liquid iron supplements contain iron in a liquid form, suspended in a liquid medium that makes the iron easier to absorb.

But is liquid iron actually better than traditional iron tablets?

We'll cover this in detail below.

What are the benefits of liquid iron?

Liquid iron supplements have the following potential benefits over other forms of iron, including:

May Enhance Absorption Rates: In the context of pharmacokinetics, bioavailability refers to the proportion of a substance that enters circulation when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect. With iron, the theory is that iron in liquid form is already in a dissolved state, circumventing the need for digestive breakdown that solid forms require.
May reduce Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Liquid iron may produce fewer gastrointestinal side effects like constipation and stomach upset.
Convenience and Versatility: Liquid iron supplements can be ingested with or without food, and their liquid state allows for easier dosing adjustments. Furthermore, they can be mixed with juices or other beverages to improve palatability. This feature is particularly useful for individuals with swallowing difficulties, such as young children or elderly adults.

Is Liquid Iron Better Than Capsules or Tablets?

Liquid iron supplements often provide benefits compared to capsules and tablets. They can be easier to absorb, may act faster, and tend to be less harsh on the digestive system.

For those who find swallowing pills challenging, liquid iron offers a viable alternative. But it's important to choose high-quality products designed to ensure efficacy and minimise discomfort. .

Try Nano Iron, a Liquid Iron Supplement

Try Nano Iron.

How Quickly Do Liquid Iron Supplements Work?

The efficacy and speed at which liquid iron supplements work depend on a variety of factors, including the type of iron used, its bioavailability, and individual health conditions. Traditional iron supplements contain iron compounds such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, or ferrous gluconate, which need to be broken down in the digestive system.

The actual iron absorbed by the body from these compounds can be quite low.

Who Should Take Liquid Iron Supplements?

Individuals who have difficulty absorbing iron from solid forms, those experiencing gastrointestinal side effects from tablets or capsule supplements, and pregnant women in need of better absorption may consider taking liquid iron supplements.

Liquid iron may be particularly beneficial for those who's absorption of nutrients from solid forms can be compromised.

Pregnant women may also benefit from liquid iron due to its higher bioavailability, aiding in the increased demand for iron during pregnancy without causing gastrointestinal discomfort commonly associated with other forms.

In cases where rapid absorption of iron is desired, a liquid iron supplement may be more effective. For instance, Nano Iron is highly absorbable allowing for excellent uptake into the bloodstream and cells through the soft tissues..

Here are those who may benefit:

Individuals who are low on iron: Liquid iron is rapidly absorbed, making it an effective option for quick absorption.
Pregnant Women: The increased bioavailability of liquid iron can meet the elevated iron needs during pregnancy more effectively than solid forms.
People with Gastrointestinal Conditions: Health conditions or other malabsorption issues can make absorbing iron from solid supplements challenging.
Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: Rapid absorption can help meet elevated iron needs due to frequent physical exercise.
Vegetarians and Vegans: Those who don't consume meat may find it challenging to get enough iron from their diet alone and may benefit from a more easily absorbed form.
Elderly Individuals: Older adults may have compromised nutrient absorption and could benefit from a more bioavailable form of iron.
Children with Iron Deficiency: Liquid iron can be easier for children to consume and absorb, compared to tablets or capsules.
Individuals Experiencing Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Those who find that iron tablets or capsules cause stomach upset, constipation, or other digestive issues may an easier time with liquid forms.
People with Dietary Restrictions: Those who are gluten or lactose intolerant can choose liquid iron supplements that are free from these allergens.
Patients Undergoing Medical Treatments: Individuals receiving treatments such as chemotherapy that may lead to an increased need for better iron absorption may benefit from high purity liquid iron.

Does Liquid Iron Have Fewer Side Effects?

The side effects associated with iron supplementation are often more related to the type of iron used rather than its form (liquid, tablet, or capsule). Common iron forms such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate are known to cause gastrointestinal issues, including constipation and stomach upset, regardless of whether they are in liquid or solid form.

However, Nano Iron presents a unique case. Composed of 99.99% pure elemental iron in particles the size of single atoms (nano), it is can be directly absorbed into cells, bypassing the gastrointestinal system entirely. As a result, most users may experience no side effects, setting it apart from other types of iron supplements, whether liquid or solid.

So, while liquid iron doesn't inherently have fewer side effects than its solid counterparts, the specific formulation of Nano Iron does offer this advantage.