Elemental Iron Content in Floradix Products
Knowing the elemental iron content in your supplement is crucial for proper dosing and effectiveness. While Floradix is a popular and well-regarded supplement, the amount of elemental iron varies depending on the product type and regional formulation. The key is to distinguish between the total weight of the iron compound, like ferrous gluconate, and the actual elemental iron your body absorbs.
Floradix Liquid Iron + Herbs
For many Floradix liquid formulas, including the standard Iron + Herbs liquid herbal supplement sold in the US, a typical adult serving of 10ml provides 10mg of elemental iron. The iron is delivered in the form of ferrous gluconate, a bioavailable and easily absorbed iron salt. Some European formulations, often found in a 20ml dose, may contain 15mg of elemental iron. This liquid format is designed for rapid absorption, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with digestive sensitivity to traditional iron supplements.
Floravital Liquid Iron + Herbs
Floravital is a yeast-free, gluten-free, and vegan liquid iron formula offered by the same company. The elemental iron content in this product is identical to many of its standard liquid counterparts, with a 10ml serving providing 10mg of elemental iron. Like the original formula, it uses ferrous gluconate for optimal absorption and gentleness. This makes it a suitable alternative for those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Floradix Iron Tablets
For those who prefer tablets over liquid supplements, Floradix also offers an iron tablet version. The elemental iron per tablet can vary based on regional formulation. For example, some tablets contain 7mg of iron, with a recommendation to take two tablets daily for a total of 14mg. Other versions are formulated to provide 10mg of elemental iron per tablet. As with the liquid, the iron is from ferrous gluconate, and the tablets are often supplemented with B vitamins and vitamin C to enhance absorption.
Key factors affecting iron absorption
- Vitamin C: Floradix products often include vitamin C, which significantly increases iron absorption. This is especially important for non-heme iron sources like ferrous gluconate.
- Form of Iron: Ferrous gluconate is known for being gentle on the digestive system, reducing common side effects like constipation compared to other forms of iron.
- Taking on an Empty Stomach: For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take Floradix about 30 minutes before a meal. Certain foods, such as coffee, tea, and dairy products, can inhibit iron uptake.
Comparison of Floradix Products
| Feature | Floradix Liquid (US/Canada) | Floradix Liquid (UK/EU) | Floradix Tablets (US/UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elemental Iron per Serving | 10mg per 10ml dose | 15mg per 20ml dose | 7mg or 10mg per tablet |
| Iron Source | Ferrous Gluconate | Ferrous Gluconate | Ferrous Gluconate |
| Form | Liquid | Liquid | Tablet |
| Vegan/Vegetarian | Vegetarian | Vegetarian | Vegetarian, sometimes vegan depending on product |
| Key Vitamins Included | B vitamins, Vitamin C | B vitamins, Vitamin C | B vitamins, Folic Acid, Vitamin C |
| Yeast/Gluten Free | Not necessarily yeast/gluten-free | Check packaging for specific formulas | Varies by formulation; check packaging |
Understanding the difference between elemental iron and ferrous gluconate
It's important to understand the distinction between the total iron compound and the elemental iron. When you see 'ferrous gluconate' on a supplement label, it is a complex compound where iron is bound to another substance. The elemental iron is the amount of pure iron available for absorption. According to the National Institutes of Health, ferrous gluconate is approximately 12% elemental iron by weight, which is why a higher total milligram amount of ferrous gluconate is needed to deliver a specific dosage of elemental iron. For example, a 10ml serving with 87mg of ferrous gluconate will provide 10mg of elemental iron.
Conclusion
For standard Floradix liquid iron sold in the US, a 10ml serving contains 10mg of elemental iron, with some international versions offering 15mg per 20ml. The tablets also deliver 10mg of elemental iron per tablet in some formulations, or 7mg per tablet in others. Regardless of the format, Floradix utilizes the highly absorbable ferrous gluconate, along with a host of vitamins and herbal extracts, to support iron levels with minimal digestive upset. Always check the specific product label to confirm the precise elemental iron content per serving for your formulation. For more information on recommended iron intakes, you can consult the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheet.
