Microgenics Iron Plus 33 Capsules
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in Australia. One in eight people over the age of two have an inadequate dietary intake of iron. Women are at higher risk of having low iron levels than men, with 23% of women having low iron levels compared to only 3% of men. For women aged between 14 and 50 years, this number is even higher: almost 40%.1
One of the reasons for this, is that women lose iron each month with their menstrual cycle. Women with heavy bleeding are at higher risk of having low iron levels because heavy bleeding can lead to low iron levels, but low iron levels can also lead to heavy bleeding.4
Vegans and vegetarians are also at higher risk of having low iron levels or stores, because iron from an animal source is 2-3 times more efficiently absorbed in the body than iron from a plant source.2,5,15
Iron and energy levels
Feeling tired is one of the most common symptoms of low iron levels. This is because iron is needed to make haemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen around the body. If there is not enough haemoglobin to carry oxygen to the tissues, this affects the energy production in those tissues, and can lead to fatigue and low energy levels.
In addition, when haemoglobin levels are low, the heart has to work harder to move more oxygen-rich blood around the body, which can further lower energy levels.3
Iron and the immune system
Iron deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to infections. Low iron levels may decrease the levels of certain types of immune cells and thus reduce the immune system’s ability to fight viruses and bacteria. As a result, those with low iron levels are more susceptible to infections.6,7,8,9
Iron and the nervous system
Iron is needed to produce the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, and can affect glutamate and GABA levels in the brain. Changes in those neurotransmitter levels may not only decrease memory and learning capacity, but can also lead to increased feelings of anxiety, irritability and depression.16,17
Low levels of dopamine may also contribute to Restless Leg Syndrome. Low levels of dopamine can cause muscles to cramp or make involuntary movements. Dopamine levels naturally drop towards the end of the day, which may explain why the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome are often worse in the evening and during the night.18,19
Pyridoxine and iron
Pyridoxine is also known as Vitamin B6. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in energy production in the body. It is also needed for haemoglobin formation and plays a critical role in the red blood cells’ ability to transport oxygen through the body. Low levels of pyridoxine could contribute to anemia.10,11
There is also evidence to suggest that adequate Vitamin B6 intake is important for optimal immune system function.11
Betacarotene and iron
Betacarotene has been included in this formula because research has shown that it can increase the absorption of iron from plant sources in the diet by up to 300%.12,13,14
Vitamin C and iron
It is a well-known fact that Vitamin C is needed for the absorption of iron. Research has shown that it can increase the absorption of iron up to six-fold%.14,15
SUMMARISED
Contains iron in a form that is well absorbed and unlikely to cause digestive upsets
May help improve energy levels due to low iron levels
Suitable for vegans and vegetarians
Low iron levels
Low energy levels due to low iron levels
Women
Vegetarians/vegans
PRODUCT BENEFITS
Contains iron in a form that is well absorbed
Contains iron in a form that is unlikely to cause digestive upsets
APPROVED LABEL CLAIM
Microgenics Iron Plus contains the mineral Iron to help prevent dietary Iron deficiency.
INGREDIENTS (per hard capsule)
Iron (II) glycinate (Ferrous bisglycinate) 73 mg
Equiv. to iron 20 mg
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) 20 mg
Pyridoxine hydrochloride 12 mg
Equiv. to Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) 10 mg
Betacarotene 1 mg
CONTAINS NO ADDED
Wheat, gluten, yeast, dairy products, egg, artificial flavours or sweeteners.
STORAGE INFORMATION
Store below 30°C, away from children
DOSE
Adults, take 1 hard capsule once daily with water, with meals, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS
WARNING: Not for the treatment of iron deficiency
conditions. Vitamins and minerals can only be of
assistance if dietary intake is inadequate. Do not
use if cap seal or if inner seal is missing, torn or
broken. Contains sulfites.
MEDICINE INTERACTIONS
If taking prescription medication or if in doubt
consult your healthcare professional.