Iron is an essential mineral that helps supply oxygen to organ systems through its role in red blood cell production. Iron supports normal growth and general health maintenance. Iron is naturally found in both plant-based and animal-based foods, but because bioavailability varies widely, deficiency is common, especially among women. Most commercially available iron supplements are available as (1) synthetic, lab-created isolates, (2) amino acid chelates, which are minerals bound to amino acids for enhanced bioavailability, or (3) whole-food/food-sourced nutrients. Plant-sourced iron is a gentler and more nourishing alternative to synthetic iron supplements that can produce digestive discomfort (e.g. constipation, gastric pain) and/or have a metallic aftertaste.