Iron

Iron is a trace element, which means it is a mineral that the body requires only in small amounts. Nevertheless, it plays a crucial role in various bodily processes, such as energy metabolism and the production of red blood cells. Fortunately, iron is available in numerous food sources. Where can one find iron, and which form of iron do we use in our supplements?

Found in
Meat, fish and chicken, bread and whole grain products, legumes, nuts and green vegetables such as spinach, purslane, bok choy and chard
Supplement
Flow
Vorm
Iron bisglycinate
Aanbevolen dagelijkse hoeveelheid
Depending on the situation, between 11 and 16 mg for women and men. One Guud Flow capsule contains 14 mg iron
Maximum daily amount Between 25 and 45 mg per day

Guud for...

  • Immune system
  • Energy
  • Fatigue
Iron contributes to, among other things…
  • the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
  • normal cognitive function and normal cognitive development in children
  • the normal functioning of the immune system and oxygen transport in the body
  • the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin
  • a normal energy-yielding metabolism

Iron also plays a role in the cell division process.

What does iron do in your body?

Iron is a mineral that is important for the formation of hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells. These red blood cells transport oxygen from your lungs to every part of your body.

How do you know if you have an iron deficiency?

An iron deficiency can cause various complaints:

  • dizziness
  • reduced ability to concentrate
  • get tired quickly
  • pale skin
  • quickly out of breath
  • suffering from restless legs, an urge to move them

A clear deficiency of iron leads to anemia.

These symptoms may be attributed to other deficiencies or problems, so always consult a doctor if you experience them persistently or are concerned.

Which foods contain iron?

Your body does not produce iron itself, so you must get it from your diet and/or supplements.

There are 2 different types of iron: heme iron and non-heme iron.

  • Heme iron is mainly found in animal products like meat. It is more easily absorbed than non-heme iron due to its complex structure and the presence of factors in these foods that promote absorption.
  • Non-heme iron is mainly found in plant sources such as legumes, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. This type of iron is absorbed slightly less efficiently than heme iron, but it can still be utilized effectively by the body.

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the absorption of non-heme iron. It improves the absorption of non-heme iron by converting iron into a form that can be more easily absorbed through the intestinal wall. Therefore, it is recommended to consume foods rich in vitamin C in combination with iron-rich plant foods to improve iron absorption.

For example, this can be done by adding citrus fruits, berries, peppers or broccoli to meals rich in non-heme iron.

How much iron should I take?

Whether and for how long you can take iron depends on your individual needs and personal situation. The recommended daily amount of iron depends on your age, gender, and personal situation. Women need more iron than men because they lose blood during menstruation. During pregnancy, a woman also needs more iron for the formation of the placenta and the development of the baby.

These are the recommended daily amounts:

  • Menstruating women: 16 mg
  • Menopausal women: 11 mg
  • Pregnant women 16 mg
  • Breastfeeding women 15 mg

One capsule of Guud Flow contains 14 mg iron.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not established a tolerable upper intake level for iron.

How long can I take iron?

How long you should take iron depends on your individual needs and personal situation. Make sure you're getting enough iron-rich food and supplement your diet with a supplement if necessary. Consult a doctor if you suspect you have an iron deficiency and want personalized advice.

What type of iron is in Guud supplements?

Iron bisglycinate is a form of iron supplement valued for its high bioavailability and gentle action on the gastrointestinal tract compared to some other forms of iron.

Iron bisglycinate is a form of iron that consists of iron ions bound to two glycine molecules. This form of iron is known for its high bioavailability, meaning it is well absorbed by the body and can be used efficiently.

This form of iron is often chosen for its gentleness on the stomach. Many people experience fewer side effects, such as stomach upset or constipation, when using iron bisglycinate compared to other forms of iron, such as ferrous fumarate or ferrous sulfate.

Iron and science