Heme Iron Polypeptide (HIP)

Iron

Gentle, high-absorption iron with minimal GI upset. Often derived from porcine source.

Part of Iron mineral
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Typical dose

Typically 10-30 mg of elemental iron per day, of...

Oral Oral safety: moderate

About this supplement

Heme Iron Polypeptide (HIP) is a specific form of iron supplement where iron is bound to a polypeptide chain derived from partially hydrolyzed animal proteins, typically porcine hemoglobin. This creates a heme-like iron complex that mimics the natural form of iron found in animal tissues. Unlike inorganic iron salts (like ferrous sulfate), HIP is absorbed via the heme iron pathway in the duodenum, which is distinct from the non-heme iron pathway. This results in higher bioavailability (estimated 15-35% absorption) with significantly reduced gastrointestinal side effects like constipation and nausea, as it doesn't generate free radicals in the gut. It's considered a gentle, well-tolerated iron source suitable for individuals with sensitivity to other iron supplements.

How much to take

Typical amount
Typically 10-30 mg of elemental iron per day, often in divided doses. Specific dosage depends on severity of deficiency.
Suggested range
10-60 mg elemental iron daily

Potential benefits

Benefits linked to this supplement form:

Cognitive Function

Research strength: Strong

 Energy Levels

Research strength: Very strong

 Treats and Prevents Iron Deficiency Anemia

Research strength: Very strong

 Supports Cognitive Function

Research strength: Strong

 Supports Immune Function

Research strength: Strong

 Supports Energy Metabolism

Research strength: Very strong

 Supports Healthy Pregnancy

Research strength: Very strong

 Treats Iron Deficiency Anemia

Research strength: Strong

 High Bioavailability with Fewer GI Side Effects

Research strength: Strong

 Less Affected by Dietary Inhibitors

Research strength: Moderate

 Suitable for Sensitive Individuals

Research strength: Moderate

Things to watch for

Possible side effects linked to this form:

Nausea

How serious: Mild

 Constipation

How serious: Mild

 Allergic Reaction

How serious: Moderate

 Gastrointestinal Distress

How serious: low

 Iron Overload (Hemochromatosis)

How serious: high

 Oxidative Stress

How serious: medium

 Interaction with Other Minerals

How serious: low

 Stool Discoloration

How serious: low

 Iron Overload

How serious: high

 Gastrointestinal Discomfort (Rare)

How serious: low

Health goals

Needs and goals this form may help with:

Other forms of Iron

Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:

Ferrous Bisglycinate (Iron Bisglycinate)

Highly bioavailable, gentle-on-the-stomach iron supplement.
Ferrous Fumarate

Iron supplement for anemia prevention and treatment
Ferrous Sulfate

Common iron supplement for anemia. May cause stomach upset; take with food if ne...
Heme Iron Polypeptide
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.
Compare all forms in the table
Technical details ▼

Chemical ID (CAS)

9012-76-4 (related for protein hydrolysate-iron complexes)

Physical properties

Typically a dark brown to black powder or granular solid. Soluble in water, forming a dark brown solution. Odorless or with a slight characteristic odor. Stable under normal storage conditions.

How it’s made

Produced by hydrolyzing animal-derived hemoglobin (usually from porcine blood) using enzymatic or acid hydrolysis to break it down into smaller peptides. The resulting peptide mixture is then complexed with ferric iron (Fe³⁺) under controlled conditions to form a stable iron-polypeptide chelate. The final product is purified, concentrated, and dried.