Spore-forming probiotics | Probiotics that go the distance

Key highlights

• Iron supplementation is not simply a question of dose. The amount absorbed and utilised is more clinically relevant than the amount contained in a product.
• Poorly absorbed iron may remain in the intestinal lumen, where it can contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort, oxidative stress, and changes to the gut microbiota.
• Ferrous sulfate remains widely used, despite tolerability concerns potentially limiting adherence in some patients.
• Iron bisglycinate (ferrous bisglycinate) is a chelated iron form that may support absorption and reduce interactions with dietary inhibitors such as phytates.
• Practical strategies such as considering dose timing, dietary inhibitors, vitamin C co-administration, and alternate-day dosing may help optimise iron absorption.