Is Nature's Bounty a Good Iron Supplement? An In-Depth Review

December 7, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder globally. Many people ask: Is Nature's Bounty a good iron supplement? The answer depends on individual needs and tolerance, as the brand offers different formulations to suit various users.

Quick Summary

A review of Nature's Bounty iron options, including ferrous sulfate and bis-glycinate forms. Key factors like elemental iron, absorption, side effects, and cost influence which product is best for different individuals.

Key Points

Gentle Iron is better for sensitive stomachs: Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron, containing ferrous bis-glycinate, is significantly less likely to cause common iron side effects like constipation compared to standard ferrous sulfate.
Ferrous Sulfate is potent and affordable: The traditional Nature's Bounty iron tablets (ferrous sulfate) offer a high dose of elemental iron at a lower cost, suitable for those who tolerate it well.
Vitamin C boosts absorption: The Gentle Iron complex includes Vitamin C to enhance iron absorption, which has been shown to increase the body's ability to utilize non-heme iron.
Consider cost vs. tolerance: The choice between Nature's Bounty's two formulas involves weighing the lower cost of ferrous sulfate against the superior tolerability and potentially better absorption of the gentle, bis-glycinate form.
Timing and diet matter: To maximize effectiveness, iron supplements should ideally be taken on an empty stomach with Vitamin C and away from absorption inhibitors like coffee, tea, and dairy.
Consult a healthcare professional: Before starting any iron supplement, consult with a doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and formula based on individual needs and iron levels.

Understanding Nature's Bounty Iron Supplements

Nature's Bounty, a well-known brand in the vitamin and supplement market, provides two primary iron products: standard Iron Tablets (ferrous sulfate) and the Gentle Iron Complex (ferrous bis-glycinate). Effectiveness and tolerability of each can differ significantly due to the iron form used.

Ferrous Sulfate: The Traditional Choice

Ferrous sulfate is a classic, strong, and often cost-effective iron supplement. It is typically in Nature's Bounty's standard iron tablets. Each tablet can contain a significant amount of elemental iron (e.g., 65 mg), making it a powerful option for rapidly correcting low iron levels.

Potential Downsides of Ferrous Sulfate

Gastrointestinal Issues: The main drawback of ferrous sulfate is the possibility of gastrointestinal side effects. Many users report constipation, nausea, stomach cramps, and other digestive discomfort.
Variable Absorption: Absorption can be inconsistent, and it can be heavily inhibited by foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and dairy.
Taste and Smell: Several reviews mention that the standard ferrous sulfate tablets can have an unpleasant taste or strong smell, which can be off-putting for sensitive individuals.

Gentle Iron: The Modern Alternative

Nature's Bounty's Gentle Iron Complex uses ferrous bis-glycinate, a chelated form of iron that is usually easier on the digestive system. This form binds iron to two glycine molecules, improving stability and absorption pathway.

Key Advantages of Gentle Iron

Better Tolerability: Studies show that ferrous bis-glycinate leads to significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects, including less constipation and stomach upset, compared to ferrous sulfate.
Enhanced Absorption: The chelated form often has higher bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb it more efficiently, particularly with food. Many Gentle Iron formulas, including Nature's Bounty's, also include Vitamin C, which further boosts iron absorption.
Fewer Dietary Inhibitors: The chelated form is less affected by dietary inhibitors found in foods like phytates (in grains) and polyphenols (in tea), allowing better absorption even with meals.

Comparison Table: Nature's Bounty Iron Supplements


Feature	Nature's Bounty Iron (Ferrous Sulfate)	Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron (Ferrous Bis-Glycinate)
Iron Form	Ferrous Sulfate	Ferrous Bis-Glycinate
Tolerability	Can cause constipation, nausea, and stomach upset.	Significantly less likely to cause GI side effects.
Elemental Iron per Serving	Higher concentration (e.g., 65 mg).	Lower concentration (e.g., 28 mg).
Absorption	Can be inhibited by food, calcium, and tea.	Better absorbed, less affected by dietary factors.
Additional Nutrients	Typically none.	Often includes Vitamin C, B12, and Folic Acid.
Cost	Generally more affordable per milligram of iron.	Slightly higher cost due to chelated form.

Maximizing Iron Supplement Effectiveness

Regardless of which Nature's Bounty product is chosen, steps can be taken to maximize absorption and minimize side effects.

Take with Vitamin C: Taking an iron supplement with a source of Vitamin C, such as orange juice, increases absorption.
Time Your Intake: For optimal absorption, take iron on an empty stomach. If stomach upset occurs, take it with a small amount of food to improve tolerance.
Avoid Inhibitors: Do not take the supplement with milk, calcium supplements, coffee, or tea, as these can block iron absorption. Separate these by at least two hours.
Consider Alternate Day Dosing: Studies show that taking a single dose of iron every other day can sometimes lead to better absorption and fewer side effects than daily dosing, particularly for those with higher needs.

Conclusion: So, Is Nature's Bounty a Good Iron Supplement?

Yes, Nature's Bounty is a good iron supplement, but the best choice depends on specific needs. The brand provides a strong, budget-friendly ferrous sulfate option and a gentler, more absorbable ferrous bis-glycinate product. For those who need a high dose of iron and can tolerate it, the standard ferrous sulfate is an effective and affordable option. However, for individuals with sensitive stomachs or significant gastrointestinal side effects from traditional iron, the Gentle Iron Complex is a better choice. The addition of Vitamin C and B vitamins in the Gentle Iron product further enhances overall efficacy and value. For personalized advice, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right supplement for health and needs. You can learn more about general iron supplementation guidelines from sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

For those with sensitive digestive systems, Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron is often a better choice. It uses ferrous bis-glycinate, a chelated form of iron that is less likely to cause constipation and stomach upset than standard ferrous sulfate.

Nature's Bounty's standard ferrous sulfate tablets are known to cause constipation and other gastrointestinal issues in some users. Gentle Iron Complex is specifically formulated to be easier on the digestive system and is less likely to cause this side effect.

To increase absorption, take your Nature's Bounty iron supplement with a source of Vitamin C, such as a glass of orange juice. Avoid taking it with coffee, tea, or calcium-rich foods like milk, as these can inhibit iron uptake.

Nature's Bounty offers different iron products to accommodate varying needs and tolerances. The standard ferrous sulfate is a potent, budget-friendly option, while the Gentle Iron with bis-glycinate is for those who need a milder, more easily tolerated formula.

Yes, the amount of elemental iron differs. The standard Nature's Bounty iron tablets (ferrous sulfate) contain a higher concentration (65 mg), while the Gentle Iron (bis-glycinate) has a lower concentration (28 mg). It's important to check the label for specific elemental iron content.

Yes, the Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron complex is often formulated with additional nutrients. This commonly includes Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and Folic Acid, which work synergistically with iron to support energy and blood health.

While individual results vary, some users report feeling a boost in energy and reduction in fatigue within a few weeks of consistent use. However, it may take several months to fully replenish your body's iron stores.