Iron Amino Acid Chelate

Iron

Highly bioavailable, gentle iron form.

Part of Iron mineral
Compare all forms

Typical dose

Dosage is highly dependent on the individual's i...

Oral Oral safety: moderate

About this supplement

Iron Amino Acid Chelate is a specific form of iron supplement where iron ions (typically Fe²⁺ or Fe³⁺) are bound to one or more amino acid molecules via coordinate covalent bonds, forming a stable, ring-like chelate structure. This chelation process is designed to protect the iron from interactions with other dietary components (like phytates and polyphenols) in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby enhancing its absorption and bioavailability compared to inorganic iron salts like ferrous sulfate. It is generally considered gentler on the stomach, with improved tolerability and reduced incidence of gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation and nausea. The specific amino acid used (e.g., glycine, lysine) can vary, influencing the compound's properties.

How much to take

Typical amount
Dosage is highly dependent on the individual's iron status (deficiency, maintenance). For supplementation, typical elemental iron doses range from 15-65 mg per day. For therapeutic treatment of deficiency, doses may be higher (e.g., 50-100 mg elemental iron daily), as directed by a healthcare provider.
Suggested range
15-100 mg of elemental iron daily

Potential benefits

Benefits linked to this supplement form:

Treats and Prevents Iron Deficiency Anemia

Research strength: Very strong

 High Bioavailability

Research strength: Strong

 Improved Gastrointestinal Tolerability

Research strength: Strong

 Supports Energy Metabolism and Cognitive Function

Research strength: Strong

Things to watch for

Possible side effects linked to this form:

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

How serious: low

 Iron Overload (Risk)

How serious: high

 Constipation or Dark Stools

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
Heme Iron Polypeptide (HIP)

Gentle, high-absorption iron with minimal GI upset. Often derived from porcine s...
Iron alpha-ketoglutarate
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)

Varies by specific chelate (e.g., Iron Bisglycinate: 20150-34-9)

Formula

Varies by specific amino acid ligand (e.g., for Iron Bisglycinate: C₄H₈FeN₂O₄)

Physical properties

Typically appears as a fine powder, color can range from buff to reddish-brown. Generally soluble in water, forming a clear to slightly hazy solution. The chelate structure provides stability across a range of pH levels.

How it’s made

Produced synthetically through a controlled chelation reaction. Soluble iron salts (e.g., ferrous sulfate) are reacted with specific amino acids (like glycine) in aqueous solution under precise conditions of pH, temperature, and concentration. The process forms stable, ring-like coordination complexes where the amino acid's nitrogen and oxygen atoms bind the central iron ion.