Pure Encapsulations Iron-C is a food supplement capsule that combines iron with vitamin C, supplied in a pack of 60 capsules for daily use.

Key Features

• High-strength, gently absorbed iron: Each capsule provides 28 mg of iron (200% NRV) as iron bis-glycinate, a form the manufacturer describes as well-tolerated and easily absorbed, in which iron is bound to the amino acid glycine. Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin, to normal oxygen transport in the body, and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.
• Vitamin C to support iron absorption: Each capsule also provides 100 mg of vitamin C (125% NRV), from a calcium ascorbate (Ester-C) blend. Vitamin C increases iron absorption and contributes to the normal function of the immune system, so the two nutrients are included together for a reason, not just combined for convenience.
• Free from major allergens and unnecessary additives: The formula is free from gluten, egg, peanuts, dairy and soya, with no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, and no unnecessary binders or fillers. This matters if you have food sensitivities or prefer a simpler ingredients list.
• Suitable for vegans and vegetarians: The capsule shell is made from plant-derived hydroxypropyl methylcellulose rather than gelatine, and the formula contains no animal-derived ingredients.
• Simple once-daily dose, two-month supply per pack: The standard dose is one capsule a day, and 60 capsules give roughly a 60-day supply, so you can keep taking it consistently without needing to reorder every few weeks.

Why does Iron-C combine iron with vitamin C?

Vitamin C increases how well the body absorbs iron. Each Iron-C capsule pairs 28 mg of iron with 100 mg of vitamin C, so the vitamin C is there to work alongside the iron rather than as a separate, unrelated ingredient. Vitamin C also contributes to the normal function of the immune system.

Do I need a confirmed iron deficiency before taking this?

Not necessarily, but it's worth checking with a healthcare professional first. NHS guidance states that taking 17 mg or less of iron a day is unlikely to cause harm, while higher doses should generally only be taken on the advice of a GP. Each Iron-C capsule provides 28 mg of iron, above that general guideline, so it's sensible to speak to a pharmacist or GP before starting, particularly if you haven't had your iron levels checked.

Is Iron-C suitable for vegans?

Yes. The capsule shell is made from plant-derived hydroxypropyl methylcellulose rather than gelatine, and the formula contains no animal-derived ingredients. It is also free from gluten, dairy, soya, egg and peanuts.

What does "iron bis-glycinate" mean?

It's a chelated form of iron, in which the iron is bound to the amino acid glycine. Pure Encapsulations describes this as a well-tolerated, easily absorbed form of iron, distinct from iron salts such as ferrous sulfate used in some other supplements.

Can I take Iron-C if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Speak to your GP, midwife or pharmacist before taking Iron-C if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a health condition or take any medication. The manufacturer advises consulting a healthcare professional before use in these circumstances.

Iron-C capsules contain ferrous bis-glycinate (iron), a calcium ascorbate and threonic acid blend (Ester-C vitamin C), hypoallergenic plant fibre (microcrystalline cellulose) and ascorbyl palmitate, in a vegetarian capsule shell made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

• Nutrient Reference Value not established.

This product is free from cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, milk, molluscs, peanuts, soybeans and celery. It contains no GMOs, magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide, carrageenan, artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, or unnecessary binders, fillers or preservatives, and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Take 1 capsule daily, with a meal, or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Each pack contains 60 capsules, providing roughly a 60-day supply at the standard one-a-day dose.

Consult a GP, midwife or pharmacist before taking Iron-C if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a health condition, or take any medication.

Do not exceed the stated dose. NHS guidance states that taking 17 mg or less of iron a day is unlikely to cause harm, and that higher doses should generally only be taken on the advice of a GP; each Iron-C capsule provides 28 mg of iron, so speak to a pharmacist or GP before starting if you have not had your iron levels checked.

Only use if the safety seal is intact.

Keep out of reach of children. Very high doses of iron can be fatal, particularly if taken by children, so always store iron supplements securely out of their sight and reach.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet.

NHS guidance notes that doses of iron above 20 mg a day may cause side effects such as constipation, feeling sick, being sick, or stomach pain. Each Iron-C capsule provides 28 mg of iron, so these effects are possible, particularly if taken on an empty stomach.

This is not a complete list of possible reactions. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, stop taking Iron-C and speak to a pharmacist or GP.