Iron Chelate
Also known as: Iron chelate, Ferrous bisglycinate, Iron amino acid chelate, Ferrous Bisglycinate
Overview
Iron chelates, such as ferrous bisglycinate, are synthetic compounds formed by binding iron to amino acids to enhance its bioavailability and act as an effective means to reduce gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional iron salts. While naturally occurring iron can be found in sources like red meat, spinach, and fortified cereals, chelates are not found in nature. Ferrous bisglycinate is primarily used for the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia, boasting a higher efficiency in improving iron status, especially in populations like pregnant women. The body of research supporting the efficacy of iron chelates is moderate, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses backing their use and showing them to be safer than conventional iron supplements with respect to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Benefits
Research indicates that ferrous bisglycinate improves hemoglobin levels in pregnant women more effectively than other iron supplements, with a standardized mean difference of 0.54 g/dL (95% CI, 0.15-0.94; P < 0.01) and results in significantly fewer gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.17-0.76; P < 0.01). While it may also enhance ferritin levels, evidence for this effect is less robust. The primary observed benefits are significant for pregnant women, although further studies are needed to establish effects in children and other populations. Improvement in hemoglobin levels and reduction of GI side effects can typically be observed within 4-20 weeks of supplementation, indicating timely and clinically significant outcomes.
How it works
Iron is crucial for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport within the blood. Iron chelation enhances absorption by converting iron into a form that is more easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby mitigating the effects of dietary inhibitors commonly found in food. This process primarily benefits the hematopoietic system, ensuring adequate incorporation of iron into hemoglobin, which is essential for oxygen transport and energy production throughout the body.
Side effects
Overall, ferrous bisglycinate is considered safe with a lower incidence of gastrointestinal side effects compared to standard iron salts. Common side effects (occurring in more than 5% of users) include mild gastrointestinal upset; however, this frequency is notably lower than that seen with less bioavailable iron supplements. Uncommon side effects, present in 1-5% of users, may include nausea and constipation, while allergic reactions are rare (<1%). Caution is advised for individuals taking antacids or tetracyclines, as these may interact with iron absorption. Additionally, contraindications apply to those with iron overload conditions such as hemochromatosis. Special attention should be given to pregnant women and those diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, as they are the primary beneficiaries of supplementation.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for ferrous bisglycinate typically starts at 18 mg of elemental iron daily, with an optimal dosage range of 18-30 mg per day for most individuals. It’s advisable not to exceed 45 mg per day without medical guidance. For optimal absorption, the supplement should ideally be taken on an empty stomach, although it can be taken with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs. Vitamin C intake simultaneously enhances iron absorption, while consumption of tea, coffee, and dairy products may reduce its effectiveness. Recommendations are particularly for ferrous bisglycinate due to its favorable bioavailability profile compared to other forms.
FAQs
Are iron chelates safe to use?
Yes, iron chelates like ferrous bisglycinate are generally safe for most people but should be avoided by those with iron overload conditions.
When should I take iron chelates?
It's best to take iron chelates on an empty stomach for better absorption, although they can be consumed with food to alleviate stomach discomfort.
How long does it take to see benefits from iron supplementation?
Benefits like improved hemoglobin levels can typically be seen within 4-20 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Can I take iron chelates with other medications?
Iron chelates may interact with certain medications such as antacids and tetracyclines, so it's best to consult your healthcare provider.
Is ferrous bisglycinate a natural source of iron?
No, ferrous bisglycinate is a synthetic form of iron and not derived from natural food sources.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36728680/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis involving nine RCTs found that ferrous bisglycinate significantly increases hemoglobin levels and reduces gastrointestinal side effects in pregnant women compared to other forms of iron supplementation.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ejhf.514 – The analysis of 64 RCTs demonstrated that both oral and parenteral iron therapies effectively enhance hemoglobin levels and minimize the necessity for blood transfusions in adults with anemia, although with no significant effect on mortality.
- https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/6/e084033 – This systematic review on weekly iron-folic acid supplementation in children and adolescents residing in sub-Saharan Africa showed significant increases in serum ferritin and hemoglobin levels, thus reducing the risk of anemia, despite some heterogeneity among study results.
Supplements Containing Iron Chelate
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