Iron Deficiency - But Supplements Aren’t Helping? Here’s What You’re Missing

So why did we leave iron out of Flow State? Because iron is not straight forward.

It doesn’t play well with others and can block the absorption of key nutrients when included in a multi. Plus, the real question isn’t just how to get more iron—but why your body is struggling with it in the first place.

Iron Deficiency Isn’t Always About Not Getting Enough Iron

Most people think fixing low iron is as simple as taking more iron. But the truth? Your body might not be absorbing or using it properly.

Here’s why:

1. Iron competes for absorption

When taken alongside other minerals (like magnesium and zinc), iron hogs the spotlight—blocking their uptake and leaving you getting less of everything. That’s why it’s best to take iron separately, at the right dose for you, and prescribed by a health professional.

2. It’s not a one-size-fits-all fix

Some people need extra iron. Others don’t. And too much can cause digestive issues, inflammation, and even be harmful over time.

3. The real fix? Investigate what’s stealing your iron in the first place

If your levels aren’t budging, ask these key questions:

🦠 Is your gut playing thief?
Certain bacteria and parasites (like Candida, H. pylori, and E. coli) love iron as much as you do. When they thrive, you don’t. Taking iron supplements can actually fuel their growth and make things worse. A simple stool test with a health professional can help uncover what’s going on.

🧪 Is your stomach acid too low?
You need stomach acid to break down and absorb iron from food. But stress, certain infections, and even mineral deficiencies can lower stomach acid—leaving iron harder to access.

🚺 Is estrogen overload working against you?
Poor estrogen detoxification leads to heavy periods, meaning you lose more iron every month. Supporting your liver and gut health can help regulate this.

Iron Doesn’t Work Alone

Even if you’re getting enough iron, your body needs the right co-factors to absorb and use it properly:

✅ Vitamin A
✅ Biotin
✅ B vitamins
✅ Magnesium

Fun fact: These nutrients are often depleted by stress, the pill, smoking, and plant-based diets—which means if your iron is low, the first step isn’t always more iron.

So, Why Did We Leave Iron Out?

Because iron isn’t a quick fix—it’s part of a bigger picture. Instead of adding iron to Flow State, we focused on the nutrients that support iron absorption, storage, and recycling over the long term—helping your body optimise.

Because balance is everything.

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This is not health advice. Always speak to qualified health professional for individual health advice.