Synbiotic hydrogels encapsulating iron and probiotic provide iron bioavailability equivalent to commercially available iron supplements

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a serious concern from which approximately one-third of the global population is affected. Pregnant women and children aged below five years at more risk for the occurrence of IDA. Oral supplementation is the most preferred method to replenish body iron stores. However, the non-compliance of currently available iron supplements generates the need for alternate iron supplements that are more acceptable. The efficacy of currently available oral iron supplements is low because of the multiple side effects that occur due to lower absorption of the major supplemented fraction. This unabsorbed fraction of iron is the major reason behind gastrointestinal discomfort and associated inflammation. This supports the requirement of an alternate iron supplement that enhances the bioavailability with a lower iron dose. Here we have prepared the synbiotic hydrogel co-encapsulating iron and probiotic for improved iron bioavailability. We compared the bioavailability of iron from these hydrogels with commercially available supplements of iron. Iron bioavailability from these supplements was assessed on Caco2 cell line and ferritin levels were measured as a marker for iron absorption. The bioavailability of iron from hydrogels was almost equivalent to commercial iron supplements. This study shows the potential of these symbiotic hydrogels in improving iron status. More insights can be gained on randomized controlled studies on human subjects.