Protocol · Hematological
Iron Deficiency Anemia Protocol
Iron (Ferrous Bisglycinate preferred) and Vitamin C are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Iron Deficiency Anemia.
The stack
5 supplements · 2 graded · 1 graded A
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Iron (Ferrous Bisglycinate preferred) | Amount listed: 25–50 mg elemental iron daily or every other day | Provides essential iron for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport
| Grade C for Alertness294 people | ||
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 200–500 mg with iron dose | Enhances non-heme iron absorption by reducing Fe3+ to Fe2+ and forming soluble complexes | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Lactoferrin | Amount listed: 100–250 mg daily | Iron-binding protein that enhances absorption and is better tolerated than traditional iron
| Grade A for Hemoglobin Increase2,992 people | ||
| Vitamin B12 | Amount listed: 1,000 mcg daily if deficient | Often co-deficient; essential for red blood cell maturation | Not graded yet | ||
| Folate | Amount listed: 400–800 mcg daily | Required for DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing RBC precursors | Not graded yet | ||
How this protocol works
In plain language
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks enough iron to produce adequate hemoglobin for red blood cells. The result is fatigue, weakness, and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. This protocol focuses on effective iron repletion.
- Iron supplementation is essential—choose ferrous bisglycinate (chelated iron) for better absorption and fewer GI side effects than ferrous sulfate. New research shows every-other-day dosing may be more effective than daily dosing due to hepcidin rhythms.
- Vitamin C dramatically increases iron absorption—take 200mg with your iron supplement. Avoid taking iron with coffee, tea, or calcium, which block absorption.
- Lactoferrin is an iron-carrying protein from milk that's well-tolerated and may be especially helpful in pregnancy or those who can't tolerate traditional iron.
- B12 and folate deficiencies often coexist with iron deficiency and are also needed for red blood cell production.
Expected timeline: Hemoglobin increases within 2-4 weeks. Full iron store replenishment takes 3-6 months of continued supplementation. Recheck ferritin to confirm adequate repletion.
Important: Always identify the cause of iron deficiency (dietary, menstruation, GI bleeding, malabsorption).