Minerals
Ferrous Sulfate
The traditional, inexpensive, and most-studied iron supplement. It works well but frequently causes constipation, nausea, or stomach upset, which is why gentler forms or alternate-day dosing are often suggested.
Best for
Standard, low-cost repletion
Absorption
Moderate
Tolerability
Commonly causes GI upset
Typical timing
With vitamin C; away from calcium, coffee, and tea
How to take Ferrous Sulfate
A typical dose of Iron: Only when deficient; commonly 18–65 mg elemental iron. Best timing: With vitamin C; away from calcium, coffee, and tea. The form you choose mainly affects absorption and how easily it sits with your stomach, not the overall dose.