Are you feeling tired or run down, and is your skin paler than usual? These may be signs of a lack of iron, especially if you are following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Iron is an essential trace mineral for energy production.  It is a component of red blood cells.  Iron helps your immune system function as well as supporting brain health. If your iron levels are low, your healthcare practitioner may recommend iron supplementation for a period of time to return your iron levels back to normal. However, many people who take standard iron supplements battle to take them regularly and may stop taking them entirely due to the digestive discomfort and changes in bowel regularity that they cause.  

For this reason, Solgar has formulated a product called Gentle Iron with active ingredient, iron bisglycinate, that has been scientifically studied and shown to be well tolerated, non-constipating and gentle on the digestive system.  This is related to how the iron molecule is uniquely structured; iron bisglycinate has two glycinate amino acids attached to the iron molecule which support iron absorption throughout the intestinal tract. Researchers have shown that iron bisglycinate has better bioavailability compared to standard iron forms such as iron sulphate. This means it passes into your system more efficiently, too. 

Although iron bisglycinate is well-absorbed by the gut, your healthcare practitioner may recommend that you take additional copper supplementation too, because copper is needed to absorb iron from the gut. Like iron, copper is an essential trace mineral and supports the production of energy, red blood cells, and connective tissue, as well as the functioning of your immune and nervous systems. Copper may have an antioxidant function and forms a component with enzymes such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase. These enzymes are antioxidants that neutralise harmful free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage. For this reason, Solgar® has formulated Solgar Chelated Copper.

For more information about Solgar Gentle Iron or Solgar Copper Chelate or supplementation, head to your local Health 2000 store.   

Do not take iron or copper if you have hemochromatosis or if you have iron overload. Take at least two hours away from medications.

Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, please see your healthcare professional. Vitamins and minerals are supplementary to and not a replacement for a balanced diet.

Solgar NZ Ltd, Auckland.

TAPS PP2965