Why I Don't Recommend Ferro-Grad C

 

Why I Don’t Recommend Ferro-Grad C for iron deficiency (and what I use instead)

Iron deficiency is incredibly common, especially in women, but not all iron supplements are created equal.

Ferro-Grad C, a popular over-the-counter supplement, contains ferrous sulfate, a form of iron that is poorly absorbed and one of the most likely to cause gut issues like constipation, bloating, nausea and inflammation.

And here’s the kicker… We only absorb 10–25% of supplemental iron. The rest sits in the gut and irritates the digestive system.

Research also shows that high doses of 60 mg+ (Ferro-Grad C contains 105 mg of elemental iron per tablet) increase hepcidin for 24 hours — the hormone that blocks iron absorption.
Meaning: the higher the dose, the less you absorb the next day. PMID: 26289639.

So instead of massively high doses that cause side effects and poor absorption, I focus on food-based iron sources (and better absorbed supplementation where necessary).

This does not mean steak for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It means small, highly absorbable forms of iron daily.

My go-tos?

  • Animal products - incorporating an abundance of animal-based products into your diet, and focusing on red meat 2-3 times a week.

  • Ferrum phosphate – a homeopathic tissue salt – it’s essentially a gentle, micro-dosed form of iron that supports healthy oxygenation, energy and overall resilience. Clinically, it’s used for iron deficiency anemia and to support haemoglobin levels. Depending on the person, it can be prescribed as Ferrum Phos 6X or 12X, or in a 6C or homochord potency. Always chat with your practitioner about which potency is most appropriate for you.

  • Beef, liver and spleen capsules. These contain the natural balance of nutrients needed for iron uptake - including B vitamins (folate + B12) and vitamin A. For example, Cell Squared Beef Liver & Spleen capsules contain nearly 10 mg of iron per serve (6 capsules).

  • If additional support is needed (based on iron levels), I may prescribe a high-quality iron bisglycinate in 20–40 mg doses every second day, because research shows alternate-day dosing improves absorption and reduces side effects. Even better - I pair an iron supplement with a specific probiotic strain clinically shown to improve iron absorption by up to 40%.

There are always options to support your individual health story.

Because when it comes to iron:
We want better absorption.
Fewer side effects.
Better results.

If you struggle with iron deficiency, heavy periods or exhaustion, it’s always worth choosing iron your body can actually use. Speak to a practitioner or book in a consultation with me here.

 
Olivia McFadyen