The dangers of Tardyferon and natural iron alternatives

The dangers of Tardyferon and natural iron alternatives

I tend to tell you that the subjects I share with you are really important. Well, in this case, I'm obliged to tell you that this article is of public interest. 

Why am I sharing all this information with you? Over the years I've worked as a traditherapist, and through my own personal experience, I've noticed a growing number of negative reactions to tardyferon.

But how is this possible? How can a drug recommended by all doctors, even when you're pregnant or breast-feeding, receive so much negative feedback? Why isn't it regulated or even banned? If, on my own scale, I've been able to gather a large number of testimonials, I'm sure I've also heard thousands from doctors and health organizations. 

I'm not going to talk about the pharmaceutical lobbies in this article because I don't want to take up 5 hours of your time, but clearly, it's not health that drives the sale of this drug.

Before we go any further, if you don't know me, I'm Hélène, Holistic Tradithérapeute. I specialize in uterine, intestinal and general health care, and my aim is to enhance your being through energy, nutrition and phytotherapy...

What is tardyferon and why is it prescribed?

Tardyferon is an iron supplement, prescribed to treat or prevent iron deficiency. So far, so good. Whether you're a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, a woman with heavy periods, have recurrent deficiencies or suffer from a genetic anemia deficiency, you should have been prescribed this medication. 

Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. If you suffer from fatigue, dizziness, paleness or muscle weakness, it's easy for a healthcare professional to assume that iron deficiency is the cause, hence the prescription of this medication.

Before going any further, it's essential to have your iron deficiency checked by a blood test. There are several types of anemia, so you may feel weak and dizzy without being iron deficient.

Discover 4 types of anemia

Pernicious anemia (vitamin B12 deficiency)

This form of anemia is linked to vitamin B12 deficiency, often caused by an absorption problem (celiac disease, atrophic gastritis) or an unbalanced vegan diet. Symptoms include fatigue, tingling in the extremities and memory problems. Friday's article is about vitamin B12 supplementation, so don't miss it.

Anemia due to folate (vitamin B9) deficiency

Folates are essential for the formation of red blood cells. Folate deficiency is often observed in people with a diet low in vegetables, or in pregnant women. This is known as megaloblastic anemia.

Inflammatory anemia or chronic diseases

This anemia is caused by inflammatory pathologies (rheumatoid arthritis, chronic infections, cancer, etc.). Inflammation blocks the correct use of iron by the body, even if iron stores are normal or high.

Hemolytic anemia

In this type of anemia, red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are produced. It can be caused by autoimmune diseases, infections or genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia.

You see? Several types of anaemia are possible, so I really recommend that you carry out complete check-ups 1 or 2 times a year to help you make the best choices for taking care of yourself.

Your health is your priority. If you'd like to have some tests carried out and your GP doesn't agree, consult another doctor/specialist. Prevention is better than cure, isn't it? Nobody can feel the aches and sensations better than you. 

Composition of Tardyferon

I'm going to list the main negative points, which I hope will be enough to make you want to implement more natural alternatives. 

As a reminder, for iron to be properly assimilated into your body, you absolutely must take supplements containing iron bisglycinate, iron gluconate or iron pyrophosphate. 

Some elements of the composition : 

Iron sulfate: Very poorly absorbed by the body, it causes irritation and severe gastrointestinal damage. For many patients, it causes intestinal and abdominal pain. This can range from cramps and spasms to total immobility. It increases the proliferation of bad bacteria and, last but not least, has a negative impact on your overall immunity.

Titanium dioxide: a food coloring that accumulates in your body. It is associated with health risks such as DNA damage and immune system toxicity. The European Union has banned the use of titanium dioxide in food because of these safety concerns. Titanium dioxide has also been declared a type 2 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO).

E172 (yellow and red colorant): It can cause oxidative stress and increase the risk of triggering inflammatory diseases. E172 contains iron that is not bioavailable, which means it can distort your blood tests, making it appear as if you have good iron levels, except that it distorts iron markers. It can also lead to iron overload and hemosiderosis. Finally, it negatively affects intestinal permeability, increases inflammation and may contain heavy metals, impacting the nervous system, kidneys and liver.

Absolutely every ingredient in tardyferon is on a list of potential health hazards. They are either carcinogenic, toxic, inflammatory, irritant or directly affect your digestive system and immunity.

Now that I've shared a few details about the composition. Here are the most common ailments identified by my customers, my personal consumption and my research on other women.

In the short to medium term, you may experience : 

• Nausea
• Gastric pain
• Digestive disorders
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Reduced immunity
• Vomiting
• Convulsion
• Stool coloring
• Allergic reaction
• Neurological disorders
• Cardiovascular problems

Now that I've given you some good reasons not to take this medication, here are a few things to bear in mind for proper iron assimilation, whatever supplement you take.

To avoid to assimilate iron

• Dairy products: The calcium in milk, cheese and yoghurt inhibits iron absorption. 
• Foods rich in tannins: Tannins, found in tea, coffee and certain wines, bind to iron and reduce its absorption. 
• Phytate-rich cereals : Phytates, found in wholegrain cereals, wholemeal bread and seeds, inhibit iron absorption. If these foods are eaten regularly, they can limit the benefits of treatment.
• Foods rich in oxalates : Spinach, beet, cocoa and some nuts contain oxalates, which reduce the bioavailability of non-heme iron. Although these foods are healthy, they should be eaten at a distance from supplements.
• High dietary fiber : A high-fiber diet slows digestion and hinders the absorption of nutrients, including iron.

My advice: 

When taking dietary supplements for iron supplementation, I recommend that you consume them 2 hours before or 2 hours after the elements I've just shared with you, to make sure you assimilate the maximum nutrients.

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Let's move on to part 2 of this article 🙂

If you don't know me particularly well, you may not know that I have a genetic deficiency which means that I'm anemic from birth. So I have to balance my daily intake to feel good. In this section, I'm going to share with you some things that you can easily incorporate and that are also part of my daily routine.

In October 2024, I've also been eating a plant-based diet for 10 years, so in terms of plant-based balance, both personally and professionally, I think I can give you the best possible advice.

Legumes: Protein and iron power

My recommendation is to eat them at least 3 times a week. My trick is to prepare the vegetables in 1 or 2 kg batches, cook them in water and then freeze them in portions, so that I always have some on hand and only need to season them to suit the dish.

My selection :

Lentils (3.3 mg iron per 100 g cooked) : highly digestible, rich in fiber and protein. Excellent for satiety and reducing the urge to snack. Also helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

Chickpeas (2.9 mg iron): I prefer to eat them in the form of hummus, so I freeze my portions straight away. You can also eat them in curries or salads. Excellent for hormonal balance, thanks to their phyto-oestrogens.

Red & black beans (2.5 mg): rich in antioxidants, boost immunity and reduce inflammation. If, like me, you're on an anti-inflammatory diet, go for it! 

Tofu & tempeh (up to 5.4 mg): incredible sources of complete protein, perfect for energy and muscle building. And Tempeh contains probiotics, so it's perfect for the intestinal microbiota. 

Absorption tip : Always remember to combine legumes with a source of vitamin C, such as lemon or peppers, to maximize iron absorption in your body. 

Green vegetables: Boost iron and immunity 

Green vegetables are often underestimated, yet they are essential for iron intake while alkalizing the body! I talk about it a lot, but eat green! The physical, emotional and cognitive benefits of green vegetables are well established.

My selection :

Spinach (2.7 mg per 100 g): Packed with iron, magnesium and antioxidants. There's just one thing you need to know: their oxalic acid can slow down iron absorption! Lightly cooking them for 3 to 5 minutes is enough to optimize iron absorption.

Chard (2.2 mg): Excellent for liver health and hormone regulation.

Kale (1.5 mg): Ultra-nutritious, rich in vitamin K for bone health and calcium.

Nettle: A medicinal plant incredibly rich in iron (up to 7 mg per 100 g!), perfect as an infusion or soup, but I'll tell you all about its benefits in another video. 

Absorption tip: Add lemon or cider vinegar to neutralize oxalic acid and boost iron assimilation. So if you're juicing spinach, remember to add a lime. 

Dried fruit: A little goes a long way

Dried fruits are energy concentrates, perfect for an iron-rich snack!

My tip: always carry a small bag of dried fruit in your bag, car or office. 1 handful a day will

My selection :

Dried apricots (4.3 mg) : Excellent for skin, transit and vitality

Raisins (2.6 mg) : Rich in antioxidants, boosts blood circulation.

Dried figs (2.2 mg): Excellent for hormonal balance and digestion.

Prunes (0.9 mg): Rich in fiber, ideal for combating constipation. They contain little iron, but by improving your digestion, you'll optimize iron assimilation in general.

Tip: If you want an energy-rich snack in addition to iron, you can add nuts and seeds and make a ready-to-eat mixture in an airtight jar.

Plants and superfoods : Don't neglect nature

These foods are nutrient concentrates, perfect for boosting iron levels fast!

My selection :

Spirulina (28 mg per 100 g!) : A nutritional bomb. Rich in highly bioavailable iron, protein and B12.

Moringa (25 mg): One of the plants richest in iron, perfect in smoothies or infusions.

And last but not least, Sea Moss , which has a lower dosage but is highly concentrated (6.3 mg): Super remineralizing, boosts the immune system.

Tip : Add a spoonful of spirulina to your morning smoothie for an immediate energy boost!

Nuts and seeds: Iron and good fats

Known for their Omega-3 content, they are less well known for their iron-boosting properties. 1 small handful of seeds a day can literally make all the difference to your daily life.

My selection :

Pumpkin seeds (8.8 mg): Excellent for sleep and hormonal balance.

Sesame & tahini (7.8 mg) : Perfect in spreads or sauces.

Cashew (6 mg): Boosts energy and concentration.

Tip : When I make smoothies, I always add a spoonful of oilseed puree. Both for the iron, and for all the nutrients it may contain.

Cereals and roots

Cereals will provide you with an array of nutrients. Selecting one of these 3 cereals at least once a week means boosting your iron levels without even thinking about it.

My selection :

Quinoa (2.8 mg): A complete gluten-free cereal, rich in protein

Oats (4.7 mg) : Perfect for a nutritious breakfast

Amaranth (7.6 mg) : Excellent alternative to conventional cereals

Tip: Whether pan-fried, baked, grilled, puffed or toasted, you can indulge yourself in many different ways. Give free rein to your creativity

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Food supplements

In addition to diet, you can take supplements to give your body a boost.

Here are the 2 products I recommend, tested and approved by both my customers and myself. Both options are vegan and gluten-free. So they're suitable for everyone.

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In today's article, my aim is to give you the knowledge you need to take care of yourself. Don't let yourself be influenced without doing your research when it comes to your health. In fact, you're welcome to compare the information I give you. That's how you develop a critical mind and become less manipulable. Give yourself the chance to choose what's best for you.

I know this has been a long article 🙂 Thanks to the brave people who took the time to read, inform themselves and hopefully, understand my message through this post.

Tell me in the comments which food you're going to add to your diet this week and which supplement you use to take care of yourself! And if you'd like more tips on nutrition and women's health, subscribe to the Newsletter so you don't miss a thing!

Hélène - Holistic Traditherapist