Iron

Iron is a Mineral supplement available in 1 form.

Not all forms of Iron are equal. The form you choose determines how much Iron actually reaches your tissues, and the difference between the best and worst forms can be substantial. Ferrochel (ferrous bisglycinate chelate) delivers 2-4x greater iron absorption than ferrous sulfate with dramatically less GI side effects (nausea, constipation, dark stools). The chelated form is not affected by dietary inhibitors like phytates, tannins, and calcium — allowing it to be taken with meals or other supplements without absorption interference.

Iron (as Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate) (Ferrochel®) Preferred (Preferred Form) has a bioavailability rating of good absorption.

Ferrous bisglycinate chelate (Ferrochel) is the most bioavailable and best-tolerated oral iron form. Multiple clinical trials demonstrate 2-4x greater absorption compared to ferrous sulfate, with significantly less GI distress (nausea, constipation). The chelated form does not interact with dietary inhibitors like phytates and tannins, and can be taken with or without food.

Iron bisglycinate chelate demonstrated 2-4x greater bioavailability than ferrous sulfate in iron-deficient women, measured by serum ferritin response. PMID: 10837299

2023 meta-analysis of 18 RCTs confirmed bisglycinate chelate achieves equivalent iron repletion at lower doses with 64% fewer GI adverse events vs sulfate. PMID: 36728680

Chelated iron transport via dipeptide pathway resists inhibition by phytate, polyphenols, and calcium that reduce non-heme iron absorption by 50-90%. PMID: 35358119

Iron (as Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate) (Ferrochel®) is classified as Preferred Form by FormulaForge — our top recommendation for Iron. It carries a bioavailability rating of good absorption, meaning more of the active compound reaches your tissues per dose unit compared to lower-rated forms.

When choosing a Iron supplement, read the label for the specific form name — that is what determines how much you actually absorb. Preferred Forms have the strongest research-backed evidence for efficient absorption.

Other forms may be appropriate depending on individual goals, cost considerations, and your healthcare provider’s guidance. The best form for you depends on your specific health needs.

Individual dose requirements vary based on health goals, body weight, and existing nutrient intake. Your healthcare provider can help you determine an appropriate amount of Iron for you.

Side Effects: Consult your healthcare provider regarding tolerability, particularly at higher doses.

These statements are based on structure/function research and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing a supplement regimen.

The following studies and findings inform FormulaForge classifications for Iron:

Iron bisglycinate chelate demonstrated 2-4x greater bioavailability than ferrous sulfate in iron-deficient women, measured by serum ferritin response. PMID: 10837299

2023 meta-analysis of 18 RCTs confirmed bisglycinate chelate achieves equivalent iron repletion at lower doses with 64% fewer GI adverse events vs sulfate. PMID: 36728680

Chelated iron transport via dipeptide pathway resists inhibition by phytate, polyphenols, and calcium that reduce non-heme iron absorption by 50-90%. PMID: 35358119

Systematic review confirms ferrous bisglycinate as preferred form for supplementation due to superior tolerability and absorption efficiency. PMID: 41082982