Product Reviews and Information for Anemia
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Product Review
Iron Supplements Review (Iron Pills, Liquids and Chews)
See Which Iron Supplements Are CL's Top Picks for Different Needs
CL Answer
Which supplements can help treat anemia? Do any supplements cause a low red blood cell count?
Find out which vitamin and nutrient supplements can help prevent and treat anemia in people who are nutrient deficient and learn which supplements may cause low blood cell counts, especially when used in excess.
CL Answer
What are the signs of iron deficiency anemia?
Find out the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat and others.
Product Review
B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)
See Our Top Picks and Which 5 Failed Testing
Clinical Update
Product Review
Vision Supplements Review (with Lutein, Zeaxanthin & AREDS2 Formulas)
Find the Best Vision Supplement Based Our Tests
CL Answer
Is it true that taking turmeric/curcumin with food can reduce iron absorption from food?
Learn more about how to take turmeric/curcumin and if they limit iron absorption from food.
CL Answer
Which is the best pulse oximeter for home use?
Best pulse oximeter for home use (COVID-19, asthma and COPD). Differences between home use and FDA-approved medical pulse oximeters.
CL Answer
What is lactoferrin and will it really strengthen my immune system?
Info about lactoferrin supplements, clinical evidence for strengthening the immune system, preventing or treating colds, gut health and treating H.
Clinical Update
5/22/2021
Fibromyalgia Risk With Iron Deficiency Anemia?
A recent study suggests a link between iron deficiency anemia and fibromyalgia, particularly in women. Get the details in the What It Does section of our Iron Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among iron supplements.
Clinical Update
12/10/2021
Home Pulse Oximeters for anemia?
We recently reported that use of inexpensive home pulse oximeters may reduce the risk of death in people with COVID. But are they useful for other conditions, such as anemia? A member recently asked us about this. Find out in our updated answer the the question: Which is the best pulse oximeter for home use? which includes our Top Picks among home pulse oximeters.
Clinical Update
3/25/2022
Resveratrol and Anemia
A CL member recently reported developing mild iron deficiency anemia after use of a popular resveratrol supplement. Find out what research suggests about this connection in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Resveratrol review.
Clinical Update
6/27/2023
Aspirin & Anemia Risk
Taking daily, low-dose aspirin may increase the risk of iron-deficiency anemia in older men and women, according to a recent study. Get the details in our Iron Supplements Review.
Also see our Top Picks among iron supplements.
Clinical Update
5/29/2024
Trouble Swallowing & Iron Deficiency
Although uncommon, be aware that iron-deficiency anemia can make swallowing difficult for some people. Get the details, including if iron supplementation can help correct this symptom, in the Iron Deficiency and Anemia section of our Iron Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for iron.
Also see: 7 Tips to Avoid Getting a Pill Stuck in Your Throat.
CL Answer
What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency?
B12 deficiency symptoms include fatigue, depression, numbness and tingling in the legs, loss of balance, changes in skin and hair, and others. Find out who is a greater risk for B12 deficiency, and how B12 supplements can help. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Which supplements help to improve energy and decrease fatigue?
Energy supplements and vitamins - Some can help increase energy and reduce fatigue, including CoQ10, curcumin/turmeric, cocoa, and B vitamins.
CL Answer
I take warfarin (Coumadin), an anticoagulant drug. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?
Find out which supplements should be avoided when taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin (Coumadin), including vitamin K, St. John's wort, and curcumin.
CL Answer
Which dietary supplements, health foods or spices contain high levels of lead?
Information about lead and heavy metals in vitamins, supplements and foods. Information on the adverse effects of lead.
Clinical Update
11/30/2021
Caution With Vitamin Supplements
A woman who, for years, had taken a popular vision supplement developed anemia and low white blood cell and platelet counts. What was the connection? Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Vision Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among vision supplements.
Clinical Update
5/10/2024
New Top Pick for Vision
We have tested and chosen a new Top Pick among supplements to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. Get the details. Also, be aware that some formulas contain too much zinc, which has been reported to cause anemia.
Clinical Update
5/10/2024
Fatty15 for Anemia?
Is there clinical evidence that the supplement fatty15 optimizes red cell production? See our article about fatty15 (C15:0 fatty acid).
Clinical Update
5/21/2024
Iron Supplements and Blood Tests
Should iron supplements be stopped before blood tests to monitor anemia? Find out in the ConsumerTips section of our Iron Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among iron supplements.
Clinical Update
10/17/2023
Grape Seed Extract and Iron
Be aware that grape seed extract may affect iron levels in the body. For details, see our Iron Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for iron.
Also see: Which supplements can help treat anemia? Do any supplements cause a low red blood cell count?
Clinical Update
10/21/2022
Stomach Damage from Iron Pills
Be aware that high-dose oral iron pills can sometimes damage the lining of the stomach and cause bleeding -- which can actually worsen anemia. Learn about recently reported cases, and what formulation of iron may reduce this risk, in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Iron Supplements Review.
Clinical Update
4/04/2023
How to Take Iron
New research suggests the best way to take iron to treat iron-deficiency anemia. Get the details in our Iron Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among iron supplements.
Clinical Update
7/15/2012
Feeling fatigued? Iron may help
It's well known that fatigue can result from iron-deficiency anemia, but new research shows that some women who are not anemic can also benefit from iron. Women ages 18 to 53 with unexplained fatigue given iron experienced a nearly 50% reduction in fatigue in a recently published study. Get details about the treatment (including the dosage, duration, and type of iron supplement used) in the update to the Iron Supplements Review, which includes our tests of iron supplements similar to that used in this study. More >>
Clinical Update
6/14/2017
Best Iron?
Contrary to expectations, a study which compared the effectiveness of two forms of iron in treating anemia in young children found ferrous sulfate to be more effective than a newer form of iron. For details about this, the different forms of iron, how to take iron, and our tests and comparisons of brands of iron supplements, see the Iron Supplements Review >>
Clinical Update
11/26/2017
Signs of B12 Deficiency
B12 deficiency is not uncommon, most often affecting older people. Symptoms include anemia, fatigue, tingling in the arms and legs and loss of balance -- but a recent case report highlights a lesser-known sign of B12 deficiency. Find out more, plus how much B12 you should get in the "B12" section of the B Vitamins Review >> (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin B12 and other B vitamins.)
Clinical Update
6/11/2024
How Often to Take Iron?
Is it better to take iron daily or several times per day for iron deficiency anemia? See what a recent study found in the How Much and When to Take section of our Iron Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among iron supplements.
Clinical Update
9/16/2024
Green Tea & Iron Deficiency
Severe iron-deficiency anemia was recently reported after regular consumption of green tea. Get the details in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.
Also be aware that drinking green tea may significantly affect blood levels of a common beta-blocker, as well as statins, blood-thinners, and thyroid medication. See the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review.
CL Answer
Do any supplements or foods benefit people with Crohn's disease? Are there any supplements that should be avoided?
Find out the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in people with Crohn's disease, including iron, B6, B12, vitamin D, zinc and others, plus evidence for N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG), fish oil, and curcumin.
CL Answer
Risks of Too Many Vitamins & Supplements
Taking too many vitamin supplements -- or taking too much of a particular supplement -- can have short and long-term adverse effects.
Product Review
Green Tea Review: Tea Bags, Matcha Powders, and Supplements
Some green teas provide barely any green tea polyphenols, while some others are high strength. See the Test Results and Our Top Picks for Green Tea.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help for ulcerative colitis?
Find out what supplements & vitamins can help with ulcerative colitis, such as VSL#3, curcumin, aloe or boswellia.
CL Answer
What is the ingredient zeolite I see in Natural Cellular Defense and other detox supplements? Does it help in any way?
Learn what zeolite is and why it is found in many detox supplements like Waiora's Natural Cellular Defense, Get Healthy Again Zeolite, and Ultra Liquid Zeolite.
Product Review
Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review
Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies
CL Answer
Which vitamins and supplements should be stopped before getting blood work, laboratory tests, or medical imaging?
Find out which vitamins and supplements can interfere with blood, urine or stool tests, and imaginging tests, like bone scans and MRIs. Learn how B vitamins such as biotin, niacin and riboflavin, as well as calcium supplements, St. John’s wort, vitamin C, and others supplements can affect test results, as well as common foods that may interfere with tests.
CL Answer
What is C15:0 fatty acid (found in fatty15), and does it have health benefits?
C15:0 fatty acid in fatty15 is promoted for “healthier hair & skin, balanced metabolism, and deeper sleep,” as well as “slowing the aging process.” Find out if it works.
CL Answer
What' the Best Way to Take Vitamin B-12? Dosage and Absorption Tips
Discover the optimal dosage and ways to take vitamin B-12, an essential nutrient, for better absorption and effectiveness and learn about possible side effects.
CL Answer
What are the benefits of grape seed extract?
Learn about the health benefits of grape seed extract, and find out it improves venous insufficiency, leg swelling, swelling after surgery, or can help to lower blood pressure.
CL Answer
What is desiccated beef liver? What is it used for, and is it safe?
Description of desiccated beef liver, including what it is used for, its nutrient content, and safety concerns.
CL Answer
What are trace minerals and do I need them?
Trace minerals include boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, zinc, and others. Find out what they do, how much of each trace mineral you should be getting, and who's most likely to be deficient in these minerals.
CL Answer
I thought the B vitamins were all water soluble and did not build up in the body, so you would not build up toxic levels. Am I wrong?
Learn more about water-soluble B vitamins including niacin, B6, B12 and folic acid, and why taking too much of these vitamins can be toxic. See the symptoms of overdose and toxicity from B vitamins. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Does Gynostemma pentaphyllum really work as an AMPK activator and help for diabetes, high cholesterol, or weight loss?
Find out if Gynostemma pentaphyllum ( jiaogulan) works as an AMPK activator and helps to lower blood sugar and treat diabetes. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of luteolin, and is it safe?
Find out if luteolin, a compound found in many fruits and vegetables, is beneficial for cancer, heart health, skin aging, age-related cognitive decline, and other conditions, and learn if it's safe.
CL Answer
Are There Supplements That Help Treat POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)?
Find out which supplements and lifestyle changes may be helpful for people with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).
Recalls & Warnings
August 16, 2023
FDA Warns Hekma Center, LLC for Promoting Products to Treat Anemia, Diabetes, Depression, & More
On June 2, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to Hekma Center, LLC following review of the company’s website and social media, which found statements about the company’s Natural Supplements for Anemia, Lymf (Galium aparine), Natural Supplements for Cardiomyopathy, Magic1 (Moringa ...
Recalls & Warnings
February 22, 2024
Herbalife Shake & Protein Drink Mix, Aloe, Linked With Case of Liver Injury
A 13-year-old boy in Texas developed liver failure and hepatitis-associated aplastic anemia after consuming two Herbalife products and an aloe vera beverage over a period of months, according to a report published on February 12, 2024 in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and ...
CL Answer
How do the COVID-19 vaccines compare in terms of efficacy, safety and side effects? How, when and where do I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Find out how the COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna compare and learn how when and where you can get the COVID-19 vaccine.
News Release
December 09, 2014
Round-up of Recent Product Tests by ConsumerLab.com -- Results for B Vitamin Supplements & Energy Drinks, Garlic, NAC (N-acetyl cysteine), Iron and Omega-7 Fatty Acids
White Plains, New York, December 9, 2014 — In recent months, ConsumerLab.com has published test results for a variety of popular supplements, including B vitamins supplements and energy drinks, NAC (N-acetyl cysteine), iron and garlic. In addition, ConsumerLab.
Product Review
Huperzine A Supplements Review
Choose the Best Huperzine A Supplement. CL Tests Reveal the Best Huperzine A Supplements for Memory.
Product Review
Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review
Find the Best Zinc Supplements and Lozenges. Have a Cold? See CL's Top Picks Among Zinc Supplements and Lozenges.
Product Review
Quercetin & Rutin Supplements Review
Quality's a Concern With Quercetin and Rutin Supplements -- Only 17% of Claimed Amount In One
CL Answer
Can any supplements reverse gray hair?
Nearly 75% of adults aged 45 to 65 are affected by gray hair. Learn about what causes gray hair and find out if any supplements can help.
Recalls & Warnings
June 26, 2024
FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Infla-650 Due to Undeclared Drugs
On June 20, 2024, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Infla-650 after FDA laboratory analysis found them to contain acetaminophen, diclofenac, and phenylbutazone.
Recalls & Warnings
July 16, 2024
Infla-650 Herbal Dietary Supplement Recalled
On July 16, 2024, Guru Inc. issued a recall of one lot of Infla-650 Herbal Dietary Capsules because they were found to contain acetaminophen, diclofenac, and phenylbutazone.
Product Review
Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements and Spices Review
See Our Top Picks Among Turmeric Products
Product Review
Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review (Including Spirulina and Chlorella)
Avoid Lead in Greens, Problems with Pills, and Don't Give Up Eating Whole Foods.
Recalls & Warnings
November 06, 2023
FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support, Found to Contain Prescription Drugs
On November 3, 2023, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support products after FDA laboratory analysis found the supplement to contain glyburide and metformin.
Recalls & Warnings
November 09, 2023
FDA Warns Biorica International for Cholesterol, Kidney & Cancer Claims
On August 4, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Biorica International Corp. following review of the company’s websites and social media, which found statements about the company’s Plaquex Oral Supplements to be drug claims, which are not permitted for dietary supplements.
CL Answer
Does cat’s claw have any health benefits and is it safe?
Cat's claw is promoted for numerous conditions, including arthritis (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), Alzheimer's disease, viral infections, boosting immune response to vaccination, and reducing side effects of chemotherapy. Find out if it works and if it's safe.
CL Answer
8 Supplements That May Help Treat Peptic Ulcers – And Some to Avoid
Peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori infection are typically treated with antibiotics, but certain supplements may also help. Find out which 8 supplements might be beneficial - and which should be avoided.
CL Answer
Can biotin supplements really strengthen nails or improve hair? Can other supplements help?
Learn more about strengthening brittle nails with vitamin B-7 (biotin), based on clinical evidence.
CL Answer
Which supplements are important after bariatric surgery (i.e., weight loss or stomach-reducing surgery)? Are there any I should avoid?
Find out which supplements may help after weight loss or stomach reducing surgery, including iron and calcium, and which should be avoided.
CL Answer
What is Perque Bone Guard Forté? It is safe and effective for bone health?
Find out about the ingredients in Perque Bone Guard Forté, including which ingredients may be beneficial for osteoporosis and bone health and which may be a safety concern.
CL Answer
Supplements That May Be Needed When Following a Gluten-Free Diet
Find out if supplements such as folate, vitamin B-12, niacin, thiamin, iron, vitamin D, and/or fiber are needed when following a gluten-free diet. Also learn how to find gluten-free supplements on ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
March 30, 2011
ConsumerLab.com finds 100-fold variation in cost of iron supplements
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MARCH 28, 2011 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that the cost to get an equivalent dose of iron from supplements varies by more than 100-fold. A 25 mg dose of iron can cost as little as two cents or over two dollars, depending on the product.
News Release
March 31, 2009
ConsumerLab.com Warns of Problems with Multivitamins and Vitamin Water -- Defects Found in Over 30% of Supplements Selected for Testing; Several Popular Children's Multis Exceed Tolerable Upper Intake Levels
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MARCH 31, 2009 — Over 30% of multivitamins recently selected for testing by ConsumerLab.com were found to contain significantly more or less ingredient than claimed or were contaminated with lead.
News Release
May 05, 2008
Some iron supplements short on iron or contaminated according to ConsumerLab.com
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — May 5, 2008 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that two iron supplements failed to pass recent independent testing. One "high potency" iron supplement contained only 37% of it claimed iron. ConsumerLab.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of green tea, and is it safe?
ConsumerLab explains green tea's potential health benefits for everything from fighting cancer to helping your heart.
CL Answer
Which deodorants and antiperspirants are contaminated with benzene and which are not?
Benzene, a carcinogen, has been detected in over 40 spray deodorants, antiperspirants, and body sprays. Tests were conducted on brands including Axe, Bath & Body Works, Brut, Degree, Dove, Gold Bond, Right Guard, Secret, Speed Stick, Suave, Old Spice, Victoria's Secret and others. Find out which products contained benzene, and how much they contained.
News Release
September 10, 2007
Tests of B-vitamins by ConsumerLab.com finds several short on folic acid — New report covers B-complexes, thiamin, niacin, B-6, B-12, biotin and folic acid supplements
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — SEPTEMBER 10, 2007 — Half of the B-complex supplements recently selected by ConsumerLab.com for testing were found to lack the total claimed amounts of folic acid, an essential nutrient also known as vitamin B-9.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2018
FDA Warns Seller of Echinacea, Iron, Aloe Supplements & More for Manufacturing Violations
On March 30, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Ozark Country Herbs following a facility inspection which found a number of the company's products, including Echinacea-Goldenseal, Natural Iron, and Aloe-Vera Goldenseal Salve, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under ...
Recalls & Warnings
October 15, 2007
US Marshalls Seize Charantea Supplements Promoted for Diabetes, Anemia and Hypertension
At the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), on October 9, 2007, U.S. Marshals seized approximately $71,000 of goods from FulLife Natural Options, Inc., of Boca Raton, Fla., which marketed and distributed Charantea Ampalaya Capsules and Charantea Ampalaya Tea.
Recalls & Warnings
June 26, 2006
FDA Warns Candy Maker Making Heart Health Claims
On May 31, 2006, the U.S.
Recalls & Warnings
October 18, 2017
FDA Warns Seller of Arthritis, Blood Pressure, Diabetes Supplements For Making Drug Claims
On August 15, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Years to Your Health, Inc., following an inspection of the company's website which found a number of their products to be misbranded, as they contained drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
November 01, 2013
Protein Shakes Containing Prescription Drug Pose Serious Health Risk
On November 1, 2013, Health Canada warned consumers that Vega One Vanilla Chai (sizes 437g and 874g) and Vega Sport Performance Chocolate nutritional shakes, by Sequel Naturals Ltd., have been found to contain the prescription antibiotic chloramphenicol.
Recalls & Warnings
October 12, 2013
Metagenics Enzyme Supplement Recalled Due To Drug Risk
On October 11, 2013, Metagenics Canada issued a voluntary recall of digestive enzyme supplement Spectrazyme, due to potential contamination with the prescription antibiotic chloramphenicol.
Recalls & Warnings
October 11, 2013
Prebiotic and Digestive Enzyme Supplement Recalled Due To Drug Risk
On October 10, 2013, Adeeva Nutritionals Inc. issued a voluntary recall of digestive supplement Flora Essentials due to potential contamination with the prescription antibiotic chloramphenicol.
Recalls & Warnings
January 24, 2013
Excessive Lead and Mercury Found In Chinese Herbal Supplements
On January 23, 2013, Health Canada warned consumers that certain batches of the Chinese dietary supplements [W.S.
Recalls & Warnings
March 28, 2011
Dangerously High Levels of Vitamins A and D in Product Prompt FDA Warning
On March 28, the U.S. FDA warned consumers to stop using Soladek, a vitamin-solution product marketed by Indo Pharma, S.A., of the Dominican Republic, because the product may contain dangerously high levels of vitamins A and D.
Recalls & Warnings
June 22, 2011
Recall of Calcium & Magnesium Softgels Containing Excessive and Potentially Toxic Amounts of Vitamin D
On or about June 7, 2011, NOW Foods announced the following recall to retailers. ConsumerLab.com was subsequently made aware of the recall by a ConsumerLab.com member.
Recalls & Warnings
May 06, 2015
Joint Pain Supplements Found to Contain Diuretics, Antihistamines and Other Undeclared Drugs
On May 4, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following supplements promoted for joint or back pain because they were found to contain undeclared drugs. Each was identified during an examination of international mail shipments.
News Release
January 19, 2007
Consumers warned of problems with multivitamins — ConsumerLab.com uncovers defects in over half of products tested
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — JANUARY 19, 2007 — Fifty-two percent of multivitamins recently selected for testing by ConsumerLab.com were found to be contaminated with lead, unable properly break apart, or to contain significantly more or less ingredient than claimed.
News Release
January 03, 2006
Tests of memory enhancing supplements by ConsumerLab.com reveals lead in some ginkgo
WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2006 — In its new test report on Memory Enhancement Supplements, ConsumerLab.com has revealed finding significant amounts of lead in certain products on the market.
News Release
July 26, 2004
ConsumerLab.com reports on iron supplements — Wide variety of products pass testing; Consumers advised on proper dose, type of iron to avoid problems
WHITE PLAINS, NY — Monday, July 26, 2004 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that fifteen iron supplements passed its recent independent testing but it cautioned that large differences among products require consumers to choose products carefully.
News Release
July 16, 2002
ConsumerLab.com finds lead contamination remains a problem for certain mineral supplements — Lead found in iron, magnesium and, most recently, potassium pills
WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 16, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that its testing has shown that approximately 5% to 10 % of certain mineral supplements are contaminated with lead. The findings are based on ConsumerLab.
News Release
October 03, 2001
Most iron supplements pass ConsumerLab.com testing — Lead contamination and insufficient iron found in some
WHITE PLAINS, NY — October 3, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Iron Supplements. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in the U.S. and worldwide.
Recalls & Warnings
October 21, 2014
Seller of Weight Loss, Saw Palmetto Supplements and More Warned for Drug Claims
On October 9, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about 15 Day Detox Diet, Alpha Lipoic Acid. 300 mg.
