Are You Getting Enough Iron? Iron supplements in pregnancy
Iron supplements help top up iron when diet alone is not enough, especially during pregnancy when demand rises. Harker Herbals Iron Boost is a natural source of elemental liquid iron to support healthy red blood cells for you and your baby.
- Your iron needs increase by around 50% when pregnant, particularly in the second and third trimesters as your baby grows
- Iron helps you make more red blood cells for you and your baby, and these cells transport oxygen around your body
- Iron supports energy and immune function, and helps build your baby's iron stores, particularly in the third trimester
- Your body cannot make iron so it must be absorbed from food or supplements. Many food sources are harder to absorb, especially without vitamin C
The benefits of Harker Herbals Iron Boost:
- Liquid syrup format that is easy to take and designed for absorption
- 10.06mg of iron per 10ml dose
- All natural ingredients including fruit and vegetable concentrates with vitamin C to support absorption and nutrition
- Non-constipating with no metallic after taste
- Blackcurrant flavour
- Free from gluten, dairy, alcohol and preservatives, vegan-friendly
- Suitable while pregnant and breastfeeding
Article supplied by Harker Herbals and previously featured in Bounty Magazine.
Iron supplements FAQ
What are Iron supplements?
Iron supplements are products that provide extra iron to help you meet your daily needs. They support haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. If you are pregnant or often feel run down, talk with your midwife or GP about whether supplementation is right for you.
Why do iron needs increase in pregnancy?
Your iron needs rise as your blood volume expands and your baby builds their own iron stores. Demand is often highest in the second and third trimesters. Prioritise iron-rich foods and consider an iron supplement if your blood tests or symptoms suggest you need more.
How can you help your body absorb iron better?
Iron absorption improves when you take it with vitamin C and avoid inhibitors at the same time. Tea, coffee, and calcium rich foods can reduce absorption if taken together. Try taking iron with a vitamin C rich snack and spacing it 1 to 2 hours away from coffee or calcium.
What are common signs you might be low in iron?
Low iron can show up as tiredness, shortness of breath on exertion, pale skin, or feeling cold more often. These symptoms can overlap with normal pregnancy changes, so testing matters. Ask your healthcare professional for a ferritin and haemoglobin check if you are unsure.
Do liquid iron products tend to be gentler on digestion?
Many people find liquid iron easier to tolerate than some tablets because it can be taken in smaller, adjustable doses. Digestive side effects still vary by person and product. If constipation is an issue, focus on fluids and fibre and choose a formulation designed to be non-constipating.
When is the best time to take an iron supplement?
Iron is often best absorbed on an empty stomach, but that is not comfortable for everyone. If nausea is a problem, take it with a small meal that is low in calcium. Consistency helps, so choose a time you can stick with each day.
Can you take iron with a prenatal multivitamin?
You can, but check the label because some prenatal formulas already contain iron. Calcium, zinc, and magnesium in the same dose can also compete for absorption. If you are taking both, consider spacing them at different times and follow advice from your healthcare professional.