Typical dose
18-100 mg of elemental iron daily, depending on...
Oral
Oral safety: moderate
About this supplement
Ferrous bisglycinate, also known as iron bisglycinate, is a chelated form of iron where an iron (ferrous) ion is bound to two glycine molecules. This chelation creates a stable, neutral complex that is highly bioavailable and well-tolerated compared to other iron salts like ferrous sulfate. The glycine amino acid acts as a carrier, protecting the iron from interactions with other dietary components (like phytates and polyphenols) that inhibit absorption in the gut. It is specifically designed to minimize common gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation and nausea, making it a preferred form for iron supplementation, especially in sensitive individuals or those with iron deficiency anemia.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 18-100 mg of elemental iron daily, depending on deficiency severity and individual needs. Often dosed once daily.
- Suggested range
- 18-200 mg elemental iron daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Iron
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Ferrous Fumarate
Iron supplement for anemia prevention and treatment
Ferrous Sulfate
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Iron alpha-ketoglutarate
Iron Amino Acid Chelate
Highly bioavailable, gentle iron form.
Iron ascorbate
Iron Bile salt
Iron Bile salt (unspecified)
Iron Fructo-Oligosaccharides
Iron oxide
Iron picolinate
Iron pyrite
Polysaccharide-Iron Complex
Iron supplement with improved gastrointestinal tolerance.
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
20150-34-9
Formula
C4H8FeN2O4
Physical properties
Typically appears as a fine, light brown to brownish-red powder. It is soluble in water, forming a clear solution. The chelated structure provides stability and prevents oxidation of the ferrous iron to the less absorbable ferric form under normal physiological conditions.
How it’s made
Produced synthetically through a chelation reaction where ferrous sulfate or another ferrous salt is reacted with glycine (an amino acid) under controlled pH and temperature conditions. The process involves purification to remove unreacted starting materials and byproducts, resulting in a pure iron bisglycinate chelate powder.