Swanson Ultra Albion Chelated Ferrochel Iron 18 mg
Brand: Swanson Ultra · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product provides a well-absorbed form of iron. As a clinical pharmacist, I can tell you that 18 mg of iron is a standard maintenance dose, often used to prevent deficiency. However, you must be careful: iron is a mineral that can build up in your body, and taking it without a known need can be harmful. The data on iron absorption is strong, but you should only use this supplement if you have a confirmed low iron level [NIH ODS].
How it works
Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to every part of your body. Without enough iron, your body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness. The "chelated" form (Ferrochel) is designed to be gentle on your stomach and to be absorbed more efficiently than standard iron supplements [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all dietary supplements, though specific report counts for this exact iron product are not available in the provided data. You should know that taking too much iron can cause constipation, nausea, and stomach pain. A serious risk is iron overload, which can damage your liver and heart. Do not take this supplement unless you have been advised to by a healthcare professional [FDA data] [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is clear: do not start this supplement without a blood test showing you need iron. For most adults, a daily dose of 18 mg is appropriate for treating mild deficiency, but you must take it on an empty stomach for best absorption, and separate it from coffee, tea, or calcium-rich foods by at least two hours. If you experience constipation, try taking it with a small amount of vitamin C, like a glass of orange juice [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson Ultra |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide