Iron Supplements: Tailored Solutions, Not One-Size-Fits-All
When addressing iron deficiency, the type and dosage of iron supplements are crucial. Most supplements are formulated to rapidly restore iron levels, often featuring higher doses.
At Sanatio, we frequently recommend iron bisglycinate — a gentle, highly absorbable form that’s kinder on the digestive system. Ideally, aim for approximately 24 mg of elemental iron every other day. High daily doses can sometimes trigger hepcidin production, a hormone that impedes iron absorption.
But here’s the twist: correcting iron deficiency isn’t solely about iron itself.
The Role of Cofactors
Effective iron metabolism hinges on a synergy of nutrients. Without the appropriate cofactors, your body struggles to absorb, transport, and store iron effectively. These include:
- Vitamin A
- Copper
- Vitamin C
- B12
And where can you find all these essential cofactors in one natural source?
Beef Liver: Nature’s Nutrient Powerhouse
While beef liver contains modest amounts of iron — insufficient on its own to rectify a deficiency; it excels in nutrient density. Rich in:
- B12 for red blood cell production
- Vitamin A to support iron mobilization
- Copper to aid iron transport via transferrin
- Folate and Choline for methylation and energy production support
In essence, beef liver enhances your body’s utilization of existing iron stores.
However, moderation is key.
Considerations
Beef Liver: High in vitamin A and copper, which can be problematic in excess. Individuals with high estrogen levels or compromised liver detoxification pathways should be cautious with copper intake.
Iron Supplements: Excessive iron intake can irritate the digestive tract and heighten oxidative stress. Always confirm deficiencies through testing before supplementing.
Our Recommendation
If diagnosed with low iron levels:
- Incorporate iron supplements (24 mg) every other day, ideally with vitamin C and away from calcium or caffeine.
- Utilise beef liver (capsules or as a food source) as supplemental support, not as the primary correction strategy.
Real-life testing has reinforced this approach:
“I relied solely on beef liver for 2 months. While energy levels improved marginally, my iron stores remained persistently low. It was only upon reintroducing iron supplements that significant improvement occurred.”
In summary, use iron to correct deficiencies and beef liver to complement. Prioritise testing over assumptions.
Unsure About Your Next Step? Let’s Discuss.
If you’re uncertain about addressing potential iron deficiency symptoms or your next nutritional steps, schedule a complimentary 15-minute Clarity Call with our team.
During this no-pressure conversation, we’ll outline how we uncover the root causes of nutrient deficiencies and determine if our approach aligns with your needs.
👉 Book your free Clarity Call here.
