Iron 25 mg bisglycinate + vitamin C, 100 capsules

Highly bioavailable iron in the form of iron bisglycinate

Each iron particle is strongly bound (chelated) to two (up to) molecules of the amino acid glycine.  An amino acid chelate, or amino acid-chelated mineral, is the general term for such a compound. The Greek word ‘chelate’ means ‘claw’.

This form of compound was chosen because it is gentle on the stomach (which is not the case with most iron compounds) and its bioavailability is particularly high. In addition, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) has been added to the formula to further support iron absorption.  The iron bisglycinate component of this product is Ferrochel®, a product from Albion Minerals, a specialist in amino acid minerals.

Albion Minerals

Vitals uses only genuine amino acid chelates from Albion Minerals, which are recognisable by the TRAACS® brand, standing for The Real Amino Acid Chelate System.  This brand serves to distinguish the product from other amino acid chelates that may be of inferior quality or unstable. Albion holds over 100 patents worldwide that safeguard the process, the science and the structure of its amino acid-chelated minerals.  Furthermore, its minerals are analysed and quality checks are carried out on every batch produced. It is absolutely essential to verify that chelation has actually taken place and that the bonds are sufficiently strong.

Advantages of amino acid-chelated minerals

The chelate structure of an amino acid chelate such as magnesium bisglycinate is robust enough not to be broken down by gastric juice or digestive enzymes (unlike other mineral compounds), yet at the same time weak enough to release the mineral element once it has been absorbed by the intestinal cells . The amino acids form a protective layer around the mineral element, shielding it during digestion, so that it cannot escape.  The chelate also has a neutral electrical charge, which means it does not adhere to food in the stomach and gut. As a result, the amino acid chelate reaches the small intestine intact, where it is absorbed as a dipeptide (a compound consisting of two amino acids).  This offers significant advantages, as the body can absorb amino acids – particularly dipeptides – very easily, especially when they consist of the smallest amino acid, glycine. Amino acid-chelated minerals are therefore much more readily absorbed than other types of minerals. The amino acid-chelated mineral enters the mucous cells in the epithelial tissue of the jejunum (the middle section of the small intestine) via active transport, without competing with other minerals.  It is only within the mucous cells that metabolic processes break down the glycine and the mineral, making them available to the various organs and systems in the body.

Role of iron in the body

As an essential trace element, iron is involved, amongst other things, in the formation of haemoglobin in red blood cells . It is therefore important for oxygen transport in the body. Through its role in oxygen transport, it contributes to the maintenance of normal cognitive functions. Furthermore, iron is found in the so-called cytochromes. These are specialised enzymes that use iron as a cofactor and are involved in electron transport within the mitochondria. These enzymes are essential for the production of cellular energy in the form of ATP . In this way, iron plays an important role in energy metabolism and in maintaining energy levels. It can therefore help to reduce fatigue.  Furthermore, due to its role in oxygen transport and energy metabolism, iron is essential for the formation of new cells and tissues. It also has a positive effect on the immune system by potentially playing a part in the production and regulation of certain immune cells and substances .

Nutritional properties

• Iron contributes to normal cognitive function and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
• Iron contributes to normal energy metabolism and to normal oxygen transport in the body.
• Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin.
• Iron contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system and plays a role in cell division.
• Vitamin C increases iron absorption.

Nutrition declaration

*Reference value according to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011
Ferrochel® is a patented amino acid chelate from Albion Minerals.

Ingredients

Rice flour (Oryza sativa), ascorbic acid, iron bisglycinate, vegetable capsule (pullulan, from fermented cassava starch), anti-caking agent (calcium salts of fatty acids).

Recommended intake

Take 1 capsule per day with water between meals.

Manufacturer’s notes

People with kidney disease should not take more than 200 mg of vitamin C per day, partly due to the risk of hyperoxalaemia (excessively high oxalic acid levels in the blood).
Keep out of the reach of young children. A high intake of iron can be toxic in young children. If several capsules have been swallowed, contact a doctor immediately.
Once opened, use within 4 months if possible.

Note from EnergyVital

25 mg per capsule is a substantial dose that should only be taken if you are certain you need it, e.g. following laboratory tests. For pure prophylaxis without specific evidence of a deficiency, we would recommend a product with a more moderate dose of up to 10 mg.

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light (not in the fridge).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of young children.