5 Science-Backed Benefits of Ferrochel Iron
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Many people associate iron supplementation with some unpleasant side effects like stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, and constipation. These misconceptions could be causing you to miss out on one of the most effective forms of iron available: Ferrochel® iron.
This branded form of a chelated iron supplement, also known as ferrous bisglycinate chelate, stands apart from others for its higher tolerability by the gastrointestinal system, leading to fewer side effects compared to traditional iron supplements.
Iron deficiency affects almost 40% of females aged 12-21 in the United States, and among women of reproductive age, the prevalence can be even higher due to menstrual blood loss.
Iron deficiency symptoms become concerning because they include fatigue, brain fog, and decreased physical performance, and can develop long before anemia is detected through standard blood tests.
In this article, we’ll explore the science-backed benefits of Ferrochel iron, from its superior absorption to its gentle effects on digestion, and explain why it deserves consideration for anyone struggling with iron deficiency regardless of whether traditional iron supplements have worked for you in the past.
What Is Ferrochel Iron and How Does It Work in Your Body?
Ferrochel is the trademarked name for ferrous bisglycinate chelate, a unique form of supplemental iron made by Albion Laboratories. Unlike traditional iron salts such as ferrous sulfate, Ferrochel is made by binding one iron ion to two molecules of the amino acid glycine. This creates a small, highly stable compound that the body can recognize and use more efficiently.
How Chelation Changes the Game
The process of chelation (from the Greek word chele, meaning claw) involves surrounding a mineral with organic molecules—in this case, two glycine amino acids. This creates a neutral, ring-like structure that protects the iron atom inside.
This creates greater stability as the iron is “locked in” to the glycine molecules, which prevents it from reacting with other compounds in the gut that normally hinder absorption (like phytates, tannins, or calcium). And unlike ionic iron salts, which carry a charge and can irritate the intestinal lining, Ferrochel is electrically neutral, making it gentler on the digestive tract.
Let’s take a closer look at the benefits:
Benefit #1: Superior Absorption and Bioavailability
In a double-blind crossover study of adults taking equal iron doses, an iron amino-acid chelate (ferrous bisglycinate—the form sold as Ferrochel) showed 59% greater mean absorption than ferrous sulfate, measured by fecal balance.
It has also been shown to perform better even when foods that are typically considered “iron blockers” are present. Human test-meal studies that spiked breakfasts with common dietary inhibitors (notably phytates and polyphenols) found that iron from ferrous bisglycinate was absorbed about twice as well as from ferrous sulfate. It continued to outperform ferrous sulfate when both were given together—evidence the chelate resists inhibitor binding and uses peptide-like uptake routes.
Research using tracer studies showed that milk significantly lowers absorption of ferrous bisglycinate compared with water (~11% vs. 46%), yet the chelate still maintained ~2–2.5× higher absorption than ferrous sulfate when both were taken with milk. In other words, milk dampens both forms, but the chelate retains a sizable edge.
Benefit #2: Gentle on the Digestive System
Ferrochel envelops an iron ion in a stable, neutral, amino-acid-based shell. This protective chelate prevents free iron from directly contacting the gastrointestinal (GI) lining, reducing its harsh, irritative potential. By minimizing free iron exposure, the risk of mucosal irritation and its common downstream effects—like nausea, cramping, and constipation—are significantly lowered.
Clinical trials consistently show that ferrous bisglycinate (Ferrochel) leads to fewer GI side effects compared to traditional iron salts like ferrous sulfate or fumarate. In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial that examined the tolerability of iron, moderate-to-severe GI side effects occurred in 37% of subjects with ferrous sulfate versus 21% with the chelate.
In addition, meta-analyses in pregnant populations showed a ~64% reduction in gastrointestinal adverse events when taking Ferrochel versus traditional iron supplements.
Momentous uses Ferrochel in its Iron+, and customers note how easy it is on their stomach, especially compared to traditional iron supplements they’ve previously used.
Tove M. said: “The Momentous Iron supplement is easily tolerated. I have not experienced any digestive issues, which I have had with other brands. I have low iron and require supplementation. This product has been essential for me to increase my ferritin and hemoglobin numbers.”
Allison M. said: “It’s easy to take - no stomach issues or weird vitamin nausea taking it on an empty stomach. I appreciate the detailed information on how/when/what to take it with.”
Benefit #3: Enhanced Energy and Reduced Fatigue
Iron is a key part of hemoglobin and myoglobin, the proteins that carry oxygen in your blood and muscles. It’s also built into the enzymes inside your cells that make ATP—the body’s main energy fuel. When iron levels are low, your body can’t deliver oxygen as effectively or produce energy as efficiently, which leads to tiredness and fatigue.
In a double-blind randomized controlled trial of non-anemic menstruating women with low ferritin, 80 mg/day of oral iron cut fatigue scores significantly more than placebo after 12 weeks.
Iron supplementation can also improve submaximal performance and VO2 peak, as this systematic review and meta-analysis of iron-depleted, non-anemic women highlighted.
As the studies outlined above show, iron supplementation can significantly improve energy balance, fatigue, and physical performance, making it an important supplement for athletes—but only for as long as they’re able to tolerate taking the supplement.
Because Ferrochel is a neutral, chelated molecule that’s absorbed efficiently and is easier on the gut, many people can actually take enough iron long enough to rebuild stores. This often means faster ferritin recovery, better oxygen transport and mitochondrial function, and less fatigue with better endurance.
Benefit #4: Cognitive Function and Brain Health
Iron isn’t just about oxygen and energy—it’s also essential for making neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which regulate mood, focus, and memory. It also supports myelination (the protective coating around nerve fibers) and overall brain development, especially in early life.
Research shows:
In children with low iron, supplementation has been shown to improve attention, memory, and school performance compared to placebo.
Young women with low ferritin (<50 µg/L) who took iron reported better concentration and mental clarity, alongside reduced fatigue.
Meta-analyses confirm that iron repletion in deficient populations leads to measurable improvements in cognitive function, learning, and behavior.
Why it matters most for children and women:
Children: Iron deficiency in infancy and childhood can disrupt brain wiring during critical windows of growth, with long-lasting impacts on learning and behavior. Getting adequate iron supports healthy cognitive development.
Women of reproductive age: Because of menstrual blood loss and increased demands during pregnancy, women are at higher risk of deficiency. Low iron not only causes fatigue but can also impair focus, memory, and mood regulation.
Benefit #5: Safety and Tolerability
Multiple safety studies—including long-term animal research and formal FDA-guided toxicology tests—have shown no harmful effects of Ferrochel, even at very high doses. Because of this strong safety record, the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has granted Ferrochel GRAS status (Generally Recognized As Safe) for use in foods and supplements.
Preclinical data suggests that Ferrochel is up to 10 times safer than ferrous sulfate, reflecting its much higher tolerated dose before toxicity signs emerge. A wider safety margin like this means that even if someone takes slightly more than recommended—but stays within reason—they're much less likely to experience harmful effects compared to using traditional iron salts.
Ferrochel's chelated form makes it ionically neutral, meaning it doesn't readily bind or deactivate other nutrients. This is especially helpful in multivitamin or fortified products where mineral interactions are a concern. And as Ferrochel remains soluble across a wide pH range (important in dairy or other beverages), it's less likely to react or form insoluble compounds that interfere with absorption or alter taste and texture.
How to Supplement with Ferrochel Iron: An Evidence-Based Guide
Best absorption: Iron absorption is most effective on an empty stomach, taken with water or juice (vitamin C can boost absorption).
For sensitive stomachs: If nausea or discomfort occurs, Ferrochel can be taken with food, and it still outperforms traditional iron salts in absorption.
Avoid inhibitors: Don’t take iron at the same time as coffee, tea, dairy, or high-calcium supplements, which can reduce uptake.
Split dosing: For higher amounts, taking smaller doses twice daily may improve tolerance and steady absorption.
Different Forms of Iron and Their Pros/Cons
| Type | Absorption Rate | Side Effects | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrochel (Ferrous Bisglycinate) | Excellent | Minimal | $$$ | Sensitive stomachs, maximum absorption |
| Ferrous Sulfate | Moderate | High | $ | Budget-conscious, can tolerate side effects |
| Ferrous Gluconate | Moderate | Moderate | $$ | Compromise between cost and tolerance |
| Iron Fumarate | Moderate | Moderate–High | $ | Alternative to sulfate |
Momentous Iron+
A once-daily, high-absorption iron capsule that’s gentle + effective
If you're looking for a high-quality Ferrochel iron supplement, check out Momentous Iron+. Our formula contains Ferrochel® iron for high bioavailability and gentleness, enhanced with Vitamin C to further aid absorption and a complete Vitamin B Complex to support natural energy production.
It's NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it's independently tested to ensure that what's on the label is actually in the bottle with no harmful contaminants. Unlike many iron supplements that cause digestive distress, our Iron+ is designed to be gentle on your stomach while providing the superior absorption your body needs.
Emma-Kate Lidbury
Emma-Kate Lidbury is a freelance writer and editor with 20 years of experience working in the health and fitness world.
