A new supplement combining iron, probiotics, and prebiotics successfully corrected anemia in mice while keeping the gut healthy. It offers a promising step toward safer, more effective iron therapies. Credit: Shutterstock Iron-deficiency anemia is a widespread health problem that often leads to fatigue, headaches, or even cravings for ice. Traditional oral iron supplements can help, but they often leave behind unabsorbed iron that irritates the digestive tract and triggers inflammation.