We Asked RDs What Iron Supplements They Recommend for Men — Here’s What They Said
If your doctor does recommend that you take an iron supplement, choosing the right type is essential. Options can vary by form (liquid, chewable, tablets, or capsules), as well as in terms of potential side effects, such as constipation. Some brands even include vitamin C to help with absorption and make gentle formulas for sensitive stomachs.
To simplify your search, we’ve put together a list of the best iron supplements for men. These products, carefully reviewed by registered dietitians, were selected for their safety, ingredient quality, and effectiveness. From chewable options to vegan-friendly ones, here are nine trusted iron supplements to meet your needs.
Our Top Picks for Best Iron Supplements for Men
- Best for iron deficiency: FullWell Iron Bump
- Best for anemia: Thorne Ferrasorb
- Best for vegans and vegetarians: MegaFood Iron Blood Builder
- Best for athletes: Thorne Iron Bisglycinate
- Best for sensitive stomachs: Doctor’s Best High Absorption Iron
- Best low dose: Kirkman Iron Ferrochel 5 mg
- Best liquid: Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid
- Best chewable: OLLY Delightful Iron
- Best budget-friendly: NOW Foods Iron 18 mg
When to Consult Your Doctor

Best for Iron Deficiency
FullWell Iron Bump
Pros
- Blend of food-based nutrients to support absorption
- Gentle on the stomach
- In-house and third-party tested, CGMP-certified
- Formulated by a registered dietitian
Cons
- Provides more than two times the daily value for men
- Primarily marketed for women’s health, which could affect perception
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: One capsule
- Type of iron: Ferrous bisglycinate
- Amount of iron: 25 mg
- Other key ingredients: Vitamin C, dandelion, nettle
While FullWell is a brand that is primarily focused on supporting women’s fertility, its iron supplements are an excellent choice for anyone in need of high-quality iron support. Crafted by a registered dietitian, these supplements follow the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) and undergo thorough in-house and third-party testing, delivering trust and reliability.
Its balance of therapeutic effectiveness and gut-friendly design makes it a top option for men in need of targeted iron support.

Best for Anemia
Thorne Ferrasorb
Pros
- Highly absorbable chelated iron
- Gentle on the stomach
- Vitamin C to enhance absorption
- Active B6, B12, and folate for added benefits
Cons
- Higher iron dose than most men’s daily needs
- Contains higher doses of nutrients that some may need or want
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: One capsule
- Type of iron: Ferrous bisglycinate chelate (Ferrochel)
- Amount of iron: 36 mg
- Other key ingredients: Vitamin C, B6, B12, folate

Best for Vegans and Vegetarians
MegaFood Iron Blood Builder
Pros
- Helps address nutritional gaps often found in plant-based diets
- Contains gentle, non-constipating iron
- Includes additional nutrients to support red blood cell production and circulation
- Product used in clinical research
Cons
- May not appeal to those seeking a stand-alone iron supplement
- Higher iron content requires medical consultation before use
Key Specs
- Form: Tablet
- Serving size: One tablet
- Type of iron: Fermented iron bisglycinate
- Amount of iron: 26 mg
- Other key ingredients: Vitamin C, B12, folate, beetroot, food blend
One potential drawback is that it may not appeal to those who are looking for a supplement that only contains iron. Further, the amount of iron per tablet (26mg) is above the daily recommended dose, so you will want to check with your doctor first before adding this supplement to your regimen.
However, this product stands out overall for men on a plant-based diet who are seeking an iron supplement for additional nutritional support.

Best for Athletes
Thorne Iron Bisglycinate
Pros
- 25 mg of highly absorbable iron bisglycinate
- Gentle on digestion
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Rigorous third-party testing and purity standards
Cons
- No added nutrients for absorption support
- High dose may not be suitable for all users
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: One capsule daily
- Total iron: 25 mg
- Type of iron: Ferrous bisglycinate chelate (Ferrochel)
- Other key ingredients: None
A minor drawback for some users might be that this product doesn’t contain additional ingredients like vitamin C to help with absorption. Still, for those who want a simple product, Thorne Iron Bisglycinate is an excellent addition to any athlete’s regimen.

Best for Sensitive Stomachs
Doctor’s Best High Absorption Iron
Pros
- Contains a gentle form of iron
- Provides 27 mg of highly absorbable iron per tablet
- Third-party tested for quality, purity, and consistency
- Produced in a CGMP-certified facility
Cons
- Basic formulation without added nutrients
Key Specs
- Form: Tablet
- Serving size: One tablet
- Type of iron: Ferrous bisglycinate chelate (Ferrochel)
- Amount of iron: 27 mg
- Other key ingredients: None
This supplement delivers 27 mg of iron in each tablet, providing an effective dose to support men with an iron deficiency or those requiring additional iron intake. The brand’s commitment to quality is also a standout feature. “Another reason I love Doctor’s Best High Absorption Iron is that all Doctor’s Best products are third-party tested for quality, purity, and consistency,” says Glinski. “They’re also produced in a CGMP-certified facility, ensuring they meet the manufacturing standards put in place by the FDA.”
One potential downside might be the supplement’s basic formulation, since it doesn’t include additional nutrients, such as vitamin C and B vitamins, which some iron supplements offer for enhanced absorption or energy support. However, for men solely focused on finding a gentle and effective iron supplement, this product more than delivers.

Best Low Dose
Kirkman Iron Ferrochel 5 mg
Pros
- Low 5 mg dose for modest needs or customization
- Gentle form of iron
- Allergen-friendly
- Third-party tested, in-house quality control
Cons
- May not be sufficient for men with significant iron deficiencies
- Lacks complementary nutrients like vitamin C for enhanced absorption
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: One capsule
- Type of iron: Ferrous bisglycinate chelate (Ferrochel)
- Amount of iron: 5 mg per capsule
- Other key ingredients: None
Like many on our list, Kirkman uses Ferrochel (a patented form of ferrous bisglycinate chelate) for better absorption and minimal gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, Kirkman’s commitment to quality and safety is evident through its third-party testing and in-house quality control measures. The capsules are also allergen-friendly — free of common allergens such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and sesame.
The formula’s simplicity is another highlight, as it delivers iron without unnecessary additives or complex ingredient blends. (On the other hand, some users might prefer supplements that include complementary nutrients, such as vitamin C, to support absorption further.) Ultimately, Kirkman Iron Ferrochel 5 mg is our top choice for men seeking a low-dose, high-quality iron supplement.

Best Liquid
Pure Encapsulations Iron Liquid
Pros
- Liquid form for easy consumption
- Contains bioavailable form of iron
- Includes antioxidant-rich ingredients
- Third-party tested and NSF certified
Cons
- Less convenient than capsules or tablets
- Requires careful storage to keep out of reach of children
Key Specs
- Form: Liquid
- Serving size: 1 teaspoon (5 mL)
- Type of iron: SunActive Fe (micronized iron ferric pyrophosphate)
- Amount of iron: 15 mg per serving
- Other key ingredients: Cranberry and wild blueberry extracts
Pure Encapsulations also prioritizes quality and safety. “All Pure Encapsulations products undergo rigorous testing, including raw materials testing and testing for herbicides and contaminants. Products, testing procedures, and manufacturing processes are also inspected twice a year by the NSF,” explains Glinski.

Best Chewable
OLLY Delightful Iron
Pros
- Pleasant fruit punch flavor
- Affordable
- Gentle on the stomach
- Third-party tested for safety and quality
Cons
- Dose may be insufficient for those with significant deficiencies
- Doesn’t include additional nutrients to enhance absorption
- Requires careful storage to prevent accidental ingestion by children
Key Specs
- Form: Chewable tablets
- Serving size: One to two chewable tablets
- Type of iron: AB-Fortis (microencapsulated ferric saccharate)
- Amount of iron: 9 mg per tablet
- Other key ingredients: None
OLLY Delightful Iron is the best chewable iron supplement for men on our list, due to its pleasant fruit punch flavor, adjustable dosage, and ease of use. “I’m a fan of OLLY chewable iron tablets because the dose is lower than most and can be adjusted based on how much iron a person needs,” says Andrews.
Beyond its flavor and ease of use, OLLY Delightful Iron tablets are third-party tested for quality and safety, and the brand is committed to delivering clean formulations, excluding artificial flavors and sweeteners altogether.
At 18 mg of iron in the maximum two-tablet serving, some users might find the dose insufficient if they have significant deficiencies. These tablets are also very simple and don’t offer additional nutrients to improve absorption. Similar to liquid iron, it’s important to keep these sweet-tasting supplements away from children to avoid accidental poisoning.
Despite these minor drawbacks, with its adjustable dosage, digestibility, and pleasant flavor, OLLY Delightful Iron makes taking an iron supplement easy and enjoyable.

Best Budget-Friendly
NOW Foods Iron 18 mg
Pros
- Most affordable on our list
- Gentle form of iron
- Manufactured in a CGMP-certified facility
- In-house and third-party tested for quality
Cons
- Basic formula; no added nutrients for absorption
- May not suit those needing higher iron doses
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: One capsule daily
- Total iron: 18 mg
- Type of iron: Iron ferrous bisglycinate (Ferrochel)
- Other key ingredients: None
For men seeking an iron supplement that’s easy on the wallet and the stomach, NOW Foods Iron 18 mg is our top pick for budget-friendly iron support. At just $7.14 for 120 capsules on Amazon, this supplement provides value, offering a four-month supply for less than $10.
The affordable price means that this product is straightforward and doesn’t include additional nutrients to enhance absorption. However, its simplicity and affordability make it an excellent choice for men prioritizing budget without compromising on quality.
Comparison Table
How We Reviewed the Best Iron Supplements for Men
Our review process for the best iron supplements for men combined expert recommendations and a thorough evaluation of each product. We carefully analyzed the qualities of various supplements, combining the insights of registered dietitians and scientific research to ensure trustworthy recommendations.
Our dietitian experts include:
- Lisa Andrews, RD, LD
- Alyssa Simpson, RDN
- Sarah Glinski, RD
- Amy Goldsmith, RDN, LDN
These experts weighed in on each product, including its affordability, bioavailability, ease of use, and safety. As a registered dietitian, I also brought my expertise to this review. With years of experience as a dietitian and health writer, I have a deep understanding of what consumers look for in supplements and which recommendations are grounded in science and credibility.
What to Look for When Buying Iron Supplements
Selecting the right iron supplement may seem overwhelming at first, but considering your specific needs and preferences will help you choose a safe and effective product. Here are the key factors to consider when shopping for iron supplements:
- Iron form: Some forms of iron, like iron bisglycinate, tend to be more easily absorbed and gentler on the stomach. Look for the type that best fits your body’s needs.
- Dosage flexibility: The amount of iron in each supplement can vary widely, and it’s important to know how much is in each dose. Choose a product with clear dosage options that allow you to adjust your intake based on your doctor’s guidance.
- Third-party testing: Look for certifications from organizations like NSF or other third-party testing groups to ensure that the product is safe, pure, and free of contaminants.
- Added ingredients: Supplements with added vitamin C, folate, or B12 can improve iron absorption or offer additional support for symptoms of anemia.
- Formulation type: Depending on your preferences or tolerance, consider options such as liquids, chewable tablets, or capsules for convenience and ease of digestion.
- Affordability: Find a supplement within your budget that meets your quality standards. A straightforward product can still deliver excellent results without a high price tag.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Low Iron in Men?
“If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to get tested for low iron levels,” says Glinski. “Over time, [iron deficiency] can increase your risk of illness, infection, and even complications that affect your lungs and heart.” Testing can help your healthcare provider look for root causes and confirm whether an iron supplement, dietary changes, or other interventions are necessary to address the deficiency.
Do Men Need Iron Supplements?
For most men, maintaining a balanced diet including iron-rich foods is sufficient to meet their needs, without the risks associated with over-supplementation.
Who Should Not Take Iron Supplements?
Before starting any iron supplement, it’s essential to consult your doctor to ensure it’s both safe and necessary for your specific needs. A medical professional can help assess your iron levels and recommend the best care plan based on your health and medical history.
Is Too Much Iron Dangerous?
To stay safe, it’s best to approach iron supplementation cautiously and always consult a healthcare provider before making any changes.
FAQ
Why Trust Everyday Health

Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN
Author
Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special interests include women's health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health. Committed to the belief that health information should be accessible to all, she is passionate about empowering individuals to make positive changes for their well-being. Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women's health and integrative and functional nutrition.
Caitlin was born and raised in northern California, where she resides with her family. An avid lover of sunshine and the outdoors, she finds joy in activities such as visiting the beach, exercising, cooking, and indulging in a good read. You can find Caitlin’s writing in a variety of outlets and brands, including Motherly, Nourish, Signos, Greatest, Pure Encapsulations, Abbott, and Clue, among others.

Daniel Oakley
Fact-Checker
Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.
Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.

Steven Rowe
Editor
Steven Rowe is a New York City–based writer and editor with over six years of experience writing about mental health, men's health, parenting, and products.
His work has been published by Healthline, Psych Central, Health, Verywell, Parents, InStyle, Greatist, Romper, Inverse, Bustle, Mic, and RetailMeNot. He also worked as an editor at Healthline and a constant strategist and update writer at Verywell. Prior to becoming a writer, he also worked at Pace University in continuing education.
He has a degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and a master’s from Columbia School of the Arts. When he's not writing, you can find him hiking in the woods with his family and rescue beagle.
- Iron: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. October 9, 2024.
- McDowell LA et al. Iron Overload. StatPearls. January 11, 2024.
- Camaschella C. Iron Deficiency. Blood. January 3, 2019.
- Fischer JA et al. The Effects of Oral Ferrous Bisglycinate Supplementation on Hemoglobin and Ferritin Concentrations in Adults and Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrition Reviews. February 2, 2023.
- Bhusal KK et al. Nutritional and Pharmacological Importance of Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.): A Review. Heliyon. 2022.
- Anemia. American Society of Hematology.
- Nguyen M et al. Iron Supplementation. StatPearls. July 3, 2023.
- Tardy A et al. Vitamins and Minerals for Energy, Fatigue and Cognition: A Narrative Review of the Biochemical and Clinical Evidence. Nutrients. January 16, 2020.
- Iron-Deficiency Anemia. American Society of Hematology.
- Pawlak R et al. Iron Status of Vegetarian Adults: A Review of Literature. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. December 16 2016.
- Domínguez R et al. Effects of Beetroot Juice Supplementation on Cardiorespiratory Endurance in Athletes. A Systematic Review. Nutrients. January 6, 2017.
- D'Adamo CR et al. A Food-Derived Dietary Supplement Containing a Low Dose of Iron Improved Markers of Iron Status Among Nonanemic Iron-Deficient Women. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. May 2018.
- Hinton PS. Iron and the Endurance Athlete. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism. September 2014.
- Srivastav A et al. Efficacy and Safety of Microsomal Ferric Pyrophosphate Supplement for Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy. Cureus. March 2024.
- Kapoor MP et al. Influence of Iron Supplementation on Fatigue, Mood States and Sweating Profiles of Healthy Non-Anemic Athletes During a Training Exercise: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study. Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications. April 2023.
- Urbstaite R et al. Phytogenotypic Anthocyanin Profiles and Antioxidant Activity Variation in Fruit Samples of the American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton). Antioxidants. January 2022.
- Whyte AR et al. A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study to Compare the Safety and Efficacy of Low Dose Enhanced Wild Blueberry Powder and Wild Blueberry Extract (ThinkBlue™) in Maintenance of Episodic and Working Memory in Older Adults. Nutrients. May 2018.
- Iron Poisoning: A Simple but Serious Mistake. Poison Control.
- Friling M et al. Tolerability of Oral Supplementation With Microencapsulated Ferric Saccharate Compared to Ferrous Sulphate in Healthy Premenopausal Woman: A Crossover, Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. October 2022.
- Szarfarc SC et al. Relative Effectiveness of Iron Bis-glycinate Chelate (Ferrochel) and Ferrous Sulfate in the Control of Iron Deficiency in Pregnant Women. Archivos Latinoamericanos de Nutrición. March 2001.
- Porter JL et al. Hemochromatosis. StatPearls. October 6, 2024.
- Yuen H et al. Iron Toxicity. StatPearls. June 26, 2023.