Which iron syrup is best for increasing hemoglobin?

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting millions and often leading to low hemoglobin levels and anemia. When diet alone isn't enough, doctors frequently recommend iron syrups to replenish iron stores and improve overall health.

Quick Summary

This guide evaluates key factors for choosing an iron syrup to increase hemoglobin, examining different iron forms like ferrous bisglycinate and iron polymaltose, and comparing popular products. It details considerations for dosage, absorption, and potential side effects.

Key Points

Iron Form Matters: Ferrous bisglycinate and Iron Polymaltose Complex are highly-absorbable and gentler on the stomach, causing fewer side effects like constipation.
Check for Co-factors: The best iron syrups often include Vitamin C, B12, and Folic Acid, which enhance iron absorption and support red blood cell formation.
Timing and Food Interactions: Take iron syrup on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, but if stomach upset occurs, a small meal may help. Avoid taking it with dairy, tea, or coffee.
Popular Options: Maltofer is noted for its tolerability, while Feroglobin is a gentle, organic option. Sangobion and Fero are also widely available and effective for many.
Consult a Professional: Always talk to a doctor to determine the root cause of low hemoglobin and get a personalized dosage and product recommendation.
Patience is Key: Restoring iron stores and increasing hemoglobin levels effectively takes several months of consistent supplementation.

Understanding Iron and Hemoglobin

Iron is a vital mineral crucial for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A lack of sufficient iron can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, causing fatigue, paleness, and shortness of breath. While dietary iron from foods like lean meats, lentils, and spinach is important, supplements are often necessary to correct deficiencies. Iron syrups offer a convenient and sometimes more palatable alternative to tablets, particularly for children or individuals with difficulty swallowing pills.

Types of Iron in Syrups

Iron syrups can contain different forms of iron, which affect absorption and tolerability. Some common types include:

Ferrous Bisglycinate: A gentle form of iron that is highly absorbable and less likely to cause constipation or stomach upset. It is often praised for its tolerability compared to other forms.
Ferrous Fumarate: Contains a high percentage of elemental iron and is effective for treating iron deficiency anemia.
Iron Polymaltose Complex (IPC): This form of iron is clinically proven to treat iron deficiency with a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects like constipation compared to ferrous supplements.
Ferric Ammonium Citrate: Another common iron source found in many multi-ingredient hematinic syrups.

Key Ingredients to Look For

Effective iron syrups often contain more than just iron. Several co-factors aid absorption and support blood health:

Vitamin C: Significantly enhances iron absorption. Taking a syrup with added Vitamin C or pairing it with a glass of orange juice is highly recommended.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Essential for the synthesis of red blood cells and DNA. It is particularly crucial during pregnancy.
Vitamin B12: Works with folic acid to support the formation of red blood cells and maintain nervous system function.
Other B-Vitamins (B6, B2): Contribute to energy production and overall vitality.
Zinc and Copper: Support iron metabolism and overall immunity.

Comparison of Popular Iron Syrups

Choosing the best iron syrup depends on individual needs, tolerability, and additional nutrient requirements. Below is a comparison of some popular options, though specific product availability may vary by region.


Syrup Name	Iron Type	Key Co-factors	Noted Benefit	Potential Side Effects	Target User	Sources
Maltofer Syrup	Iron Polymaltose Complex	None mentioned specifically for absorption, but can be mixed with juice.	Excellent tolerability, significantly less GI upset compared to ferrous salts.	Reduced risk of side effects like constipation.	Individuals sensitive to ferrous salts, vegans, and pregnant women.	,
Fero Syrup	Ferrous Fumarate	Vitamin C, B12, B6	Balanced formula, good for red blood cell formation and reducing fatigue.	Generally well-tolerated, but can cause mild GI issues in some.	Children and adults with low Hb levels, fatigue, and weakness.	,
Feroglobin Liquid	Iron Citrate Complex	Vitamin C, B-Vitamins, Zinc, Honey	Gentle on the stomach with organic iron form, contains B vitamins for energy.	Nausea, constipation, dark stools (less common with this formula).	All ages, vegetarians, athletes, women during menstruation.
Sangobion Syrup	Ferrous Gluconate	Vitamin C, B12, Folic Acid	Effective for treating anemia related to pregnancy and illnesses.	Can cause constipation, nausea, dark stools.	Pregnant women, elderly, individuals with deficiencies.	,

How to Maximize Iron Absorption and Minimize Side Effects

To ensure the best results from your iron syrup, follow these practical tips:

Timing is key: For best absorption, take iron on an empty stomach, about one hour before or two hours after meals. However, some formulations like Maltofer are better with food, and taking iron with a meal can reduce stomach upset.
Avoid inhibitors: Do not take iron syrup with milk, calcium supplements, coffee, or tea, as these can significantly reduce absorption.
Combine with Vitamin C: Taking iron with a source of Vitamin C, such as orange juice, enhances its absorption.
Manage side effects: Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and dark stools. If stomach upset is an issue, try taking the syrup with a small snack or switching to a gentler formulation like Iron Polymaltose or Ferrous Bisglycinate.

Conclusion

The "best" iron syrup for increasing hemoglobin varies by individual needs, tolerability, and the presence of any accompanying health conditions. For those with a sensitive stomach, products with Iron Polymaltose Complex (like Maltofer) or Ferrous Bisglycinate (like in Herbiotics' Irolex-F) offer superior tolerability. For a comprehensive blood-building formula, consider options with added vitamins like Feroglobin or Sangobion. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of low hemoglobin and to receive a personalized recommendation for the most suitable iron syrup and dosage. It's important to remember that iron therapy takes time, often several months, to restore iron stores and increase hemoglobin levels effectively.

Important Considerations for Iron Supplementation

Consult a doctor: It is crucial to have your iron levels tested and consult a healthcare professional before starting any iron supplement. Self-medicating with iron can be dangerous, especially in cases of iron overload disorders.
Dosage: The correct dosage depends on the severity of the deficiency. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate amount, and it's essential not to exceed it.
Duration: Treatment for iron deficiency anemia often requires several months of supplementation to restore iron stores fully.

For more information on iron deficiency and its treatment, please refer to authoritative resources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Frequently Asked Questions

Liquid iron is not inherently better absorbed than tablets, but it can be a better option for individuals, like children or those with difficulty swallowing pills, and for those who experience less gastrointestinal upset with liquid formulations.

You may start to feel better within 1 to 4 weeks of consistent use, but it typically takes several months (3 to 6 months) of treatment to fully replenish iron stores and achieve normal hemoglobin levels.

Common side effects include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and dark or black stools. Taking the syrup with food or choosing a gentler formulation can help reduce these effects.

No, you should avoid taking iron syrup with milk, coffee, or tea, as the calcium and tannins can interfere with iron absorption. For best results, take your syrup at least two hours apart from these drinks.

Yes, Maltofer is often recommended for pregnant women, particularly those who experience constipation with ferrous iron supplements, as it has been shown to correct iron deficiency with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.

You can maximize absorption by taking your iron syrup on an empty stomach, or with a glass of orange juice or a supplement containing Vitamin C. Avoid taking it with calcium-rich foods, tea, or coffee.

Ferrous iron (e.g., ferrous sulfate) is generally absorbed more readily than ferric iron, which must be converted in the stomach. Newer, gentler forms like Ferrous Bisglycinate offer high absorption with fewer side effects.

Yes, some brands like Maltofer and Feroglobin Liquid explicitly state they are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, ensuring no animal-derived ingredients.