BLACKSTRAP IRON

WHAT IS IT?
Blackstrap Iron (iron gluconate) is a form of iron that is naturally found in blackstrap molasses.

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TYPES OF IRON?
Blackstrap molasses is an excellent natural source of trace elements including calcium, copper, manganese, potassium and magnesium as well as iron. These trace elements are purported to work synergistically with the iron in Blackstrap Iron to deliver the most natural form of iron supplementation.1

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?
Blackstrap Iron may be used as an iron supplement in individuals who have increased iron requirements (adolescents, pregnancy and lactation, elderly) or for those who are deficient in iron due to dietary restrictions (vegetarians, vegans) or other medical reasons (menstruation, poor absorption of iron).2

HOW DOES IT WORK?
Blackstrap Iron replaces iron stores in the body. Iron is necessary for oxygen delivery to cells and tissues as well as energy production and a number of metabolic processes in the body.1,2

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF USING BLACKSTRAP IRON?
Since Blackstrap Iron comes from a natural source it potentially has better absorption than other iron formulations. The iron gluconate that is found in Blackstrap Iron is generally less irritating to the stomach than other forms of iron.3,4

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS?
As with all iron products, constipation is the most common side effect of Blackstrap Iron. Although iron gluconate is less irritating to the stomach than other forms of iron, some stomach upset may still occur.5 This product may also cause the stool to become black in color and tarry. If this occurs, there is no need for medical attention unless a history of gastrointestinal disease is present.

HOW SHOULD I TAKE IT?
One tablet by mouth daily or as directed by your health care provider. Each tablet of Blackstrap Iron contains 30mg of iron gluconate.

1. “Blackstrap molasses” Available at: www.whfoods.org Accessed December 12, 2007.
2.“Dietary sources of Iron” McKinley Health Center U of I Urbana-Champaign. Available at: www.mckinley.uiuc.edu/Handouts/dietary_sources_iron.html Accessed December 12, 2007.
3. Information obtained from product specialist from swansonvitamins.com.
4. http://www.jctonic.com/include/minerals/iron.htm Accessed December 12, 2007.
5. Iron deficiency anemia, In: Kroon LA, McDermott JH, Newton DD, et al. APhA Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs, 14th ed. Washington: American Pharmaceutical Association; 2005.