Iron bisglycinate: Reduces deficiency during pregnancy

Daily vitality

Iron contributes to the transport of oxygen in the body and may help reduce fatigue when intake is insufficient.

Pregnancy and increased nutritional needs

During pregnancy, red blood cell production increases, and iron contributes to the normal formation of haemoglobin.

A form that is often better tolerated

Iron bisglycinate is a form of iron bound to an amino acid, valued for its good digestive tolerability and effective absorption.

Origin and description

Iron bisglycinate is a chelated form, in which iron is bound to glycine, a small amino acid.

In natural form, in food, iron is found in meat, offal, certain fish and seafood, as well as in lentils, chickpeas, beans, tofu, spinach and seeds. Iron from animal sources is generally better absorbed than that from plant sources. Pairing foods rich in vitamin C — such as kiwi, citrus fruits or peppers — can help improve the absorption of plant-based iron. Conversely, tea, coffee or large amounts of calcium consumed at the same time may reduce it. Intake varies considerably depending on habits and tolerances.

As a supplement, iron bisglycinate is available in capsules, tablets, powder or ampoules, sometimes combined with vitamin C. The main benefit of taking an iron-based food supplement is consistency, especially when eating becomes more challenging during pregnancy. In terms of quality, look for a clear label that indicates the form of iron and a simple composition. Tolerance can vary, with occasional digestive discomfort or changes in bowel habits. If you are looking for a dedicated option, Iron Mama offers patented iron bisglycinate Ferrochel™, designed to fit easily into a daily routine.

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Oxygen transport
Iron contributes to the normal transport of oxygen, a useful support when pregnancy increases your body's needs.
Digestive tolerance
Bisglycinate is often chosen for its tolerability, which can help support regular intake in some people.
Iron-related fatigue
When intake is insufficient, iron can help reduce fatigue associated with low iron levels.
Red blood cells
Iron contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells, a process that is particularly in demand during pregnancy.

How does it work? (The science bit)

When you consume iron, it passes through the digestive tract before being absorbed, mainly in the intestine. It then circulates in the blood, largely bound to transport proteins, before being used by the body according to its priorities.

Part of it is used to produce haemoglobin, which helps your red blood cells carry oxygen. Another part is stored, particularly in the liver, to be mobilised later if needs increase. The body naturally adjusts iron absorption according to current stores and requirements. During pregnancy, these needs may increase, as your blood volume adapts and your baby's development draws on more resources.

Supplementation is not automatic, but when indicated, the bisglycinate form is often preferred as it is better tolerated and very well absorbed. It should be taken separately from your pregnancy-compatible vitamin. The effects are not immediate, as the body gradually rebuilds its stores, and progress is monitored over time.

Our sources

Iron can contribute to reducing fatigue when it is linked to insufficient intake. How it is felt varies from person to person and there is generally no immediate effect, as the body rebuilds its stores gradually. If the fatigue persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, a check-up can help identify the cause.

This may be worth discussing during pregnancy when supplementation is considered relevant, for example in cases of insufficient intake or confirmed deficiency. It is not automatic: the choice of form, duration and approach depends on the context and blood test results. The aim is to adjust to the actual need, without overloading intake.

Digestive effects may occur, even though bisglycinate is often chosen for its very good tolerability compared to sulphate-type forms. Nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, or darker stools are among the possible effects. Changing the time of intake, or taking it with a small snack, can sometimes improve comfort.

Certain combinations can reduce iron absorption, particularly taking it at the same time as tea, coffee, zinc or calcium — which is why spacing them out is advisable. Some medications also require a gap in timing when taken alongside iron. Avoid combining several supplements containing iron without checking first, as excess iron is not desirable, and do review things if you are currently on any medication.

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