Maximising Your Iron Supplement: A Guide to Better Absorption

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies globally, affecting nearly one-third of the population. For those aiming to increase their iron intake—especially through supplements like beef liver and spleen—understanding how to optimise absorption is essential.

Iron is a critical mineral necessary for many bodily functions. It plays a key role in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. About two-thirds of the body's iron is found in hemoglobin, making it vital for maintaining energy levels and overall health.

Understanding Iron Forms and Absorption

Iron exists in two forms in food: heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron, found in animal products like meat and fish, is absorbed more efficiently by the body, with an absorption rate of approximately 15-35%. In contrast, non-heme iron, which is present in plant-based foods such as beans, lentils, and spinach, as well as fortified products, has a lower absorption rate of around 2-20%.

Iron absorption primarily takes place in the small intestine. The stomach's acidity helps convert iron into a soluble form that is easier to absorb, so low stomach acid can hinder this process. Once absorbed, iron binds to a protein called ferritin for storage or is transported into the bloodstream by another protein, transferrin. The body regulates iron absorption based on its needs; absorption increases when iron stores are low and decreases when they are sufficient.

Factors Affecting Iron Absorption

Despite consuming iron-rich foods, many people still struggle to absorb adequate amounts. Here are some key factors that influence iron absorption:

1. Dietary Choices:

A vegetarian or vegan diet can make it more challenging to maintain high iron levels, primarily due to the type of iron consumed rather than the quantity. Non-heme iron from plant sources is less readily absorbed. However, pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can enhance the absorption of non-heme iron. Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, chard, broccoli, and capsicum.

Research indicates that compounds like phytates (found in plant-based foods) and polyphenols (present in herbal teas, coffee, wine, legumes, cereals, fruits, and vegetables) can hinder non-heme iron absorption, but they do not affect heme iron.

2. Health Conditions:

Individuals with gastrointestinal conditions, such as IBS or celiac disease, may experience impaired absorption due to damage in the small intestine. Additionally, women with heavy menstrual periods or conditions like endometriosis may face iron deficiency due to significant blood loss.

3. Dietary Inhibitors:

Calcium and oxalic acid (found in foods like spinach and beans) can also impact iron absorption. Interestingly, certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus plantarum, have been clinically shown to enhance iron absorption.

4. Enhancing Through Other Nutrients:

Vitamin B12 works in tandem with vitamin B9 (also known as folate or folic acid) to aid in the production of red blood cells and enhance iron’s effectiveness in the body. While the spleen is rich in bioavailable heme iron, the liver is also an excellent source of iron and provides essential nutrients that support iron absorption, including vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B9, and copper. This is why we  recommend combining Primal Iron and Primal Energy. This combination not only boosts iron levels (or ferritin) but also increases the intake of nutrients that facilitate iron absorption. We suggest taking 2 capsules of each formula daily.

In summary, we recommend consuming our Primal Supplements in the morning with food. If you are up for the challenge, try the tips outlined above! 

Increasing your iron levels doesn't have to be complicated. By understanding the importance of iron, recognising the factors that affect absorption, and implementing these strategies, you can maximise the benefits of your beef liver iron supplement and support your overall health. Remember, addressing any underlying causes of deficiency is crucial for achieving lasting improvements. For personalised advice, consult a healthcare professional to tailor your approach to your specific needs

How to Supplement with Freeze-Dried Beef Spleen

If you are looking for a natural, whole food and bio-available supplement to boost your iron that includes a myriad of critical nutrients look no further than desiccated beef spleen. 

You can find out more about them here