Chelated iron, such as the iron bisglycinate in MAS Iron, is iron bound to two molecules of the amino acid glycine.
This form improves absorption because the two molecules of glycine block dietary factors like fiber from interfering with absorption.
The bisglycinate form is also more soluble, which translates to better absorption, which in turn decreases gastrointestinal side effects like constipation and stomach upset.
What does the science say about iron bisglycinate?
- A study in 100 anemic patients compared 120mg iron sulfate to 120mg, 60mg, and 30mg doses of iron bisglycinate daily for one month.
- 60mg iron bisglycinate for four weeks provided the best dose response in terms of elevating hemoglobin and serum ferritin (a protein that enhanced iron storage).
- The 120mg dose of iron bisglycinate resulted in 50% fewer GI side effects compared to the same dose of iron sulfate.
- A randomized, crossover study of the tolerability of iron bisglycinate versus iron sulfate found significantly more subjects preferred the bisglycinate form because it was less likely to cause GI upset.
“Ferrous Sulfate Oral : Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD.
“Iron Deficiency Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Symptoms.” University Health News, 5 Mar. 2019.
Duque, X., Martinez, H., Vilchis-Gil, J. et al. Effect of supplementation with ferrous sulfate or iron bis-glycinate chelate on ferritin concentration in Mexican schoolchildren: a randomized controlled trial. Nutr J 13, 71 (2014).
Bumrungpert A, Pavadhgul P, Piromsawasdi T, Mozafari MR. Efficacy and Safety of Ferrous Bisglycinate and Folinic Acid in the Control of Iron Deficiency in Pregnant Women: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 20;14(3):452.
Milman N, Jønsson L, Dyre P, Pedersen PL, Larsen LG. Ferrous bisglycinate 25 mg iron is as effective as ferrous sulfate 50 mg iron in the prophylaxis of iron deficiency and anemia during pregnancy in a randomized trial. J Perinat Med. 2014 Mar;42(2):197-206.