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The Hidden Dangers of Ferrous Sulfate & What Low Iron on Lab Tests *Really* Means

by Charity Berry



A Science-Backed Look at Iron, Food Chemicals, Medications and Dietary and Herbal Alternatives 

The Dangers of Ferrous Sulfate: Why Bioavailability Matters

Ferrous sulfate, one of the most common iron supplements, is an inorganic salt with **notoriously low bioavailability**—often less than 10% is absorbed, leaving the majority to irritate the digestive tract and potentially harm the body.  
[Iron absorption from oral iron supplements](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756131/)

Short-Term & Long-Term Effects on the Body

Digestive Tract (Gut)
- Short-Term: Nausea, constipation, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and black stools are common within days of starting ferrous sulfate. Many users discontinue due to these symptoms.  
  [Gastrointestinal side effects of oral iron preparations](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3295709/)
- Long-Term: Chronic irritation can damage the gut lining, increase intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), and disrupt the gut microbiome, promoting overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast. This can also impair absorption of other nutrients.  
  [Oral iron and gut health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6701756/)

Liver
- Short-Term: Mild elevations in liver enzymes may occur, and the liver must work harder to process excess, unbound iron.
- Long-Term: Iron accumulation in the liver can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, increasing the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and, in rare cases, iron overload (hemochromatosis).  
  [Iron overload and liver injury](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6195877/)

Kidneys
- Short-Term: Effects are generally minimal in healthy individuals, but those with pre-existing kidney issues may experience increased strain.
- Long-Term: Over time, iron overload can stress kidney filtration and contribute to chronic kidney disease, especially in those with compromised kidney function.  
  [Iron overload and kidney injury](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071237/)

Cardiovascular System
- Short-Term: Acute iron overload (such as from accidental overdose) can cause irregular heartbeat or low blood pressure.
- Long-Term: Free iron acts as a pro-oxidant, damaging blood vessel linings and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.  
  [Iron and cardiovascular disease](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4769006/)

Systemic Oxidative Stress
- Short-Term: Temporary increases in inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6) after supplementation, especially if the body cannot utilize the iron efficiently.
- Long-Term: Persistent oxidative stress can damage cellular membranes, proteins, and DNA in high-metabolic organs, increasing the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases and accelerated aging.  
  [Iron-induced oxidative stress](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3295709/)

Children & Elderly
- Short-Term: Children are highly sensitive; even a single overdose can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and shock.  
  [Pediatric iron poisoning](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4055307/)
- Long-Term: Survivors of acute toxicity may develop permanent organ damage. The elderly may experience worsening of existing health conditions due to cumulative oxidative stress.

What Low Iron on Lab Tests *Actually* Means

Low iron on a lab test—often measured as **serum iron** or **ferritin**—doesn’t always indicate a true deficiency. Instead, it can reflect:

  • Chronic inflammation or infection: The body may lower iron levels intentionally to restrict access for pathogens.  
      [Anemia of inflammation](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466029/)
    - Gut absorption issues: Conditions like celiac, IBD, or low stomach acid can impair iron uptake.  
      [Iron deficiency and malabsorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551530/)
    - Blood loss: Heavy menstruation or hidden GI bleeding.
    - Dietary patterns: Rare in those with a varied, nutrient-rich diet, but possible in strict vegans/vegetarians.
    - Liver or kidney dysfunction:These organs are central to iron regulation.

**Supplementing without addressing the root cause**—especially with synthetic iron—can worsen inflammation, increase oxidative stress, and do more harm than good.  
[Iron supplementation in inflammation](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466029/)

Food Chemicals and Additives that Deplete Iron or Block Absorption

Even a nutrient-rich diet can be sabotaged by certain food chemicals and additives that interfere with iron absorption or promote its depletion:

Phytates (Phytic Acid)
- Found in: Whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds.
- Action: Bind to iron in the digestive tract, making it unavailable for absorption.
- Impact: Can significantly reduce non-heme (plant-based) iron absorption.
- Research: [Phytate and mineral bioavailability](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705318/)

Calcium
- Found in: Dairy products, calcium-fortified foods, supplements.
- Action: Competes with iron for absorption in the gut.
- Impact: High calcium intake with iron-rich meals can reduce iron absorption by 50% or more.
- Research: [Calcium and iron absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2766911/)

Oxalates
- Found in: Spinach, rhubarb, beets, certain nuts and chocolate.
- Action: Bind to iron and form insoluble salts, blocking absorption.
- Impact: Can lower the bioavailability of iron in plant foods.
- Research: [Oxalates and mineral absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705318/)

Food Additives & Preservatives
- EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid): Used as a preservative in some processed foods, can chelate (bind) minerals like iron, reducing absorption.
- Phosphates (in sodas, processed meats):High phosphate load can inhibit iron uptake.
- Research: [EDTA and mineral absorption](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12042422/)

Excessive Fiber (Stay tuned for our Fiber Fib blog coming soon)
- Found in: Bran, Grains, many vegetables,fiber supplements, very high-fiber diets.
- Action: Fiber can physically trap iron, making it less available for absorption.
- Impact: Especially important for those relying on plant-based iron sources.

Safer, Herbal Iron Alternatives—Already in Our Formulas

Instead of relying on harsh, poorly absorbed synthetic iron, we harness the power of **bioavailable, plant-based sources**—many of which are featured in our single-herb tinctures and synergistic blends.

 Key Herbs & Their Science-Backed Benefits

- Nettle Leaf:  Naturally rich in iron, vitamin C, and chlorophyll; supports blood building and reduces inflammation.  
  [Nettle and iron absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848655/)
- Yellow Dock Root:  Contains iron and aids digestive function, traditionally used for anemia and sluggish digestion.  
  [Yellow dock and iron](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22164791/)
- Dandelion Root: Supports mineral absorption and liver health, nutrient-dense and gentle.  
  [Dandelion and liver health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5474722/)
- Parsley:High in iron and vitamin C, with antioxidant properties and gentle detox support.  
  [Parsley and iron](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21716929/)
- Alfalfa: Traditional blood builder, offers iron, chlorophyll, and a spectrum of minerals.  
  [Alfalfa and blood health](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23216037/)
- Moringa: Exceptionally high in iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients; supports energy and immune function.  
  [Moringa and anemia](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5745501/)
- Spirulina: Highly bioavailable iron, B vitamins, and antioxidants; supports red blood cell production.  
  [Spirulina and iron status](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/)

How We Deliver These Benefits

You’ll find these herbs in several of our best-selling formulas:

-**Moringa**,

- **Super Mineral Blend:** Nettle, horsetail, alfalfa, dill, and additional mineral-rich botanicals.
- **Supergreens+ Kelp Tincture:** Spirulina, dandelion, alfalfa, parsley, and a blend of sea vegetables and adaptogens.
- **Daily Formulas for Men, Women, and Children:** Incorporate many of these herbs—plus others—to support vitality, blood health, and gentle mineral replenishment, all in a bioavailable, alcohol-free format.

 The Herbal Path to Iron Wellness

Ferrous sulfate is not only poorly absorbed—it risks damaging the gut, liver, and other organs, especially if the real root cause of low iron isn’t addressed.  
Low iron on labs often signals deeper issues like inflammation, absorption problems, or blood loss, and shouldn’t be reflexively treated with synthetic iron salts.

Our approach: Harnessing the power of nature’s most effective, gentle, and bioavailable sources—like nettle, yellow dock, dandelion, parsley, alfalfa, moringa, spirulina, and more—already featured in our single-herb tinctures and proprietary blends. These herbs work synergistically to support healthy iron levels, without the risks associated with synthetic supplements.

 References

1. [Gastrointestinal side effects of oral iron preparations](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3295709/)
2. [Iron absorption from oral iron supplements](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756131/)
3. [Iron overload and liver injury](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6195877/)
4. [Iron overload and kidney injury](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071237/)
5. [Iron and cardiovascular disease](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4769006/)
6. [Oral iron and gut health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6701756/)
7. [Iron-induced oxidative stress](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3295709/)
8. [Pediatric iron poisoning](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4055307/)
9. [Anemia of inflammation](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466029/)
10. [Iron deficiency and malabsorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551530/)
11. [Iron supplementation in inflammation](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466029/)
12. [Phytate and mineral bioavailability](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705318/)
13. [Calcium and iron absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2766911/)
14. [Oxalates and mineral absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705318/)
15. [EDTA and mineral absorption](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12042422/)
16. [Nettle and iron absorption](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848655/)
17. [Yellow dock and iron](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22164791/)
18. [Dandelion and liver health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5474722/)
19. [Parsley and iron](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21716929/)
20. [Alfalfa and blood health](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23216037/)
21. [Moringa and anemia](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5745501/)
22. [Spirulina and iron status](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/)

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