I had the tablets for a while but fortunately didn't get side effects.
I've heard that a tbsp. of molasses provides half of your iron requirement each day. That's 2 syns. I'm trying to use it instead of sugar sometimes.
Also if you have any cast iron pots, cooking with those (especially tomatoes and other acidic foods) can significantly boost your iron consumption.
I'm pescetarian and the trouble with veggie sources of iron (leafy veg, pulses etc) is that it is harder to absorb, especially as plant foods also contain something that inhibits iron absorption.
To boost absorption avoid milk, tea, coffee and red wine at the time when you're eating foods containing iron, and eat lots of vitamin C.
I believe sardines are a good source too. Nice and easy to add to a salad.