Iron vs Caffeine
for energy / fatigue
Stronger evidence: Iron
Stronger effect: Iron
Safety: Caffeine carries a minor interaction; Iron has none recorded.
For energy / fatigue, Iron has the stronger evidence grade.
Iron
grade A high certainty
reliably reduces fatigue when iron deficiency / IDA is present; no benefit when iron-replete
18–65 mg/day, iron-deficient adults (esp. menstruating women)
Caffeine
grade B moderate certainty
reduces perceived fatigue; tolerance develops with regular use
40–200 mg
sources: PMID:10000007 · PMID:00000021