Vegan Iron + C (120 g)

Some of the highest-iron non-meat foods include:

• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)
• Tofu and tempeh
• Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, tahini
• Fortified cereals and breads
• Spinach and other leafy greens (iron is present, but absorption can be lower)
• Dried fruit like apricots and raisins (moderate amounts)

Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in your blood. When iron is low, oxygen delivery can drop, which may lead to iron deficiency and sometimes iron deficiency anemia.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Fatigue, low energy, weakness
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath (especially with exertion)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headaches
• Cold hands and feet
• Fast heartbeat or palpitations
• Brittle nails or increased hair shedding
• Restless legs
• Pica (craving ice is a classic sign)

Ways to improve absorption:

• Take iron with vitamin C (citrus, kiwi, berries, capsicum)
• Combine plant-based iron foods with vitamin C in the same meal
• Avoid tea and coffee close to iron-rich meals or supplements
• Avoid taking iron at the same time as calcium supplements
• If iron upsets your stomach, taking it with a small amount of food can help

Many teas can reduce iron absorption, especially if taken with meals or supplements.

Best options around iron:

• Rooibos tea
• Peppermint tea
• Other herbal teas that are low in tannins

Tip: If you drink black or green tea, have it 1-2 hours away from iron-rich meals or your iron supplement.

Iron supports:

• Oxygen transport (via hemoglobin)
• Energy production
• Immune function
• Brain function, focus, and cognitive performance
• Muscle function (oxygen delivery to muscles)

For faster improvement:

• Take an iron supplement consistently as directed
• Pair it with vitamin C to support absorption
• Reduce blockers near dosing (tea, coffee, calcium)
• Increase iron-rich plant foods daily
• If symptoms are significant or you suspect anemia, it is best to confirm with blood tests (ferritin, hemoglobin) and follow a clinician's advice

The best option depends on your levels, tolerance, and what your healthcare professional recommends.

Common approaches include:

• Standard iron salts (effective but can cause constipation or nausea for some people)
• Gentler options like iron bisglycinate or wholefood-based iron
• If you have diagnosed anemia, rechecking blood levels after supplementing is important

Many iron supplements are available over the counter and do not require a prescription.

Vitus Vegan Iron + C is a wholefood supplement, so it is generally considered a safe, gentle option for most people when taken as directed. It also includes vitamin C, which can support iron absorption. It is also vegan verified, and comes in a glass bottle (a more sustainable packaging option).

Safety reminders:

• Only take iron if you need it (too much iron can be harmful)
• Keep iron supplements out of reach of children

If you are looking for a gentle, easy-to-take iron supplement, consider gentler options like iron bisglycinate or wholefood-based iron, like Vitus Vegan Iron + C at Sassy Organics. It is vegan verified, comes in a glass bottle, and is a more sustainable choice.

Vitus Vegan Iron + C nutritional value (per serve):

• Serving size: 4 g (1 teaspoon)
• Servings per pack: 30
• Iron: 12 mg (100% RDI)
• Vitamin C: 44.2 mg (110% RDI)