The Vitamin Shoppe Iron 28 mg
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that The Vitamin Shoppe Iron 28 mg is a straightforward supplement providing a specific dose of a well-studied mineral. Data on this exact product is limited, but we can assess it based on the ingredient. Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in your blood [NIH ODS]. A 28 mg dose is significant, as it exceeds the RDA for most adults, which is 8 mg for men and 18 mg for women [NIH ODS]. You should only take this dose if you have a confirmed iron deficiency, as excess iron can be harmful.
How it works
Think of iron as the key component in your blood's oxygen delivery system. Your body uses iron to produce hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that grabs oxygen from your lungs and carries it to every cell in your body [NIH ODS]. Iron is also critical for energy metabolism and immune function [NIH ODS]. Without enough iron, your body can't make enough healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.
Safety profile
Data not available for adverse event reports specific to this product. However, iron supplements carry known risks. Taking too much iron can cause stomach pain, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Very high doses can be toxic, especially for children [NIH ODS]. Because this product provides 28 mg, which is above the RDA for men and postmenopausal women, you should not take it unless advised by a healthcare provider to avoid iron overload.
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to use this supplement only if you have a diagnosed iron deficiency. Have your ferritin and hemoglobin levels checked by a doctor first. For most people, a lower dose or dietary sources of iron from red meat, beans, and spinach are safer and more appropriate [NIH ODS]. Start with a lower dose if possible, and take iron on an empty stomach with vitamin C (like orange juice) to improve absorption, but be aware this may increase stomach upset.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 300.0 Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | On 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