Best heme iron supplement
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Summary
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Some studies suggest that heme iron enriched peptide (HIP) is an effective and safe iron supplement with strong antioxidant activities and good solubility, while other studies indicate it may not offer clear benefits over conventional supplements and is costly.
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Best Heme Iron Supplement: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Heme Iron Supplements
Heme iron supplements are derived from animal hemoglobin and are known for their high bioavailability and fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-heme iron supplements. This article synthesizes recent research to identify the most effective heme iron supplements.
Efficacy of Heme Iron Enriched Peptides
Heme Iron Enriched Peptide from Bovine Hemoglobin
A study on Wistar rats demonstrated that heme iron enriched peptide from bovine hemoglobin effectively alleviated iron deficiency anemia (IDA). The peptide restored hemoglobin, red blood cells, and serum iron levels to normal or better values compared to ferrous sulfate (FeSO4). Additionally, it showed higher bioavailability and fewer side effects. This suggests that heme iron enriched peptide is a potent and safe iron supplement.
Heme Iron Polypeptide (HIP) in Clinical Trials
HIP vs. Conventional Iron Supplements in Dialysis Patients
A randomized controlled trial (HEMATOCRIT trial) compared heme iron polypeptide (HIP) with ferrous sulfate in peritoneal dialysis patients. The study found no significant difference in transferrin saturation (TSAT) between the two groups. However, serum ferritin levels were significantly lower in the HIP group, and the cost of HIP was substantially higher. This indicates that HIP may not offer significant advantages over conventional iron supplements in this patient population.
HIP Polymer with High Iron Content
Research on a polymerized form of HIP with high iron content showed that it significantly increased serum iron levels in healthy humans. The polymer was highly soluble and contained the highest iron content among HIP forms. This makes the HIP polymer a promising candidate for an ideal iron supplement.
Dietary-Based Heme Iron Interventions
Blood-Based Crisp Bread for Women
A study on young women using blood-based crisp bread containing heme iron showed significant improvements in body iron levels, comparable to those achieved with non-heme iron supplements. The crisp bread had fewer side effects, making it a viable dietary-based treatment for improving iron status.
Side Effects and Tolerance
Superior Tolerance of Heme Iron
A study on blood donors compared the side effects of a heme iron and non-heme iron combination supplement (Hemofer) with a non-heme iron supplement (Erco-Fer). The heme iron combination had significantly fewer side effects, such as constipation, compared to the non-heme iron supplement. This highlights the superior tolerance of heme iron supplements.
Conclusion
Heme iron supplements, particularly heme iron enriched peptides and HIP polymers, show high efficacy and bioavailability with fewer side effects compared to conventional iron supplements. Dietary-based interventions like blood-based crisp bread also offer effective and well-tolerated options for improving iron status. However, the cost and specific patient needs should be considered when choosing the best heme iron supplement.
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