Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 11 Researches
6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 90 Reviews
8.2
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Iron (elemental) (from 90 mg Ferrous Bisglycinate)(Ferrochel™)
18 mg
100%
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We assessed how iron supplementation impacts blood donors who may suffer from low iron levels. Our analysis included thirty studies with nearly 4,700 participants, focusing on the differences between those receiving iron and those who didn’t.
We found that iron supplements reduced the chances of donors being deferred due to low hemoglobin levels and helped elevate their hemoglobin and iron stores. However, we also noted more side effects, like constipation and nausea, among those taking iron.
These side effects hinder its widespread use, suggesting iron supplements should be targeted to at-risk individuals only.
We found that iron supplements reduced the chances of donors being deferred due to low hemoglobin levels and helped elevate their hemoglobin and iron stores. However, we also noted more side effects, like constipation and nausea, among those taking iron.
These side effects hinder its widespread use, suggesting iron supplements should be targeted to at-risk individuals only.
Read More
8
Infant formula impacts stool consistency
We evaluated how different infant formulas affect the stool characteristics of infants. Two clinical studies focused on infants transitioning from exclusive breastfeeding to formula feeding and those already on formula.
Parents recorded each infant's feeding tolerance, spit-up occurrences, and stool characteristics during the trials. Our findings revealed that the composition of the formula impacts stool consistency.
Specifically, infants consuming formula A exhibited softer stools and more frequent bowel movements compared to those on formula B, which may help lessen concerns about constipation associated with iron-fortified options.
Parents recorded each infant's feeding tolerance, spit-up occurrences, and stool characteristics during the trials. Our findings revealed that the composition of the formula impacts stool consistency.
Specifically, infants consuming formula A exhibited softer stools and more frequent bowel movements compared to those on formula B, which may help lessen concerns about constipation associated with iron-fortified options.
Read More
5
Constipation prevalence linked to iron
We investigated the prevalence and contributing factors of constipation among healthy pregnant women over the course of their pregnancy. Our longitudinal study showed that constipation affects about 24% of women during various stages of pregnancy and even postpartum.
Notably, we found that iron supplementation was linked to a higher risk of constipation. This means that while iron is an important nutrient during pregnancy, it may also contribute to discomfort for some women.
These findings highlight the importance of monitoring bowel health as part of prenatal care.
Notably, we found that iron supplementation was linked to a higher risk of constipation. This means that while iron is an important nutrient during pregnancy, it may also contribute to discomfort for some women.
These findings highlight the importance of monitoring bowel health as part of prenatal care.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
No constipation noted
286 people found this helpful
Iron is an essential mineral impacting energy production, as well as the immune and nervous systems. It is a key component of haemoglobin, the molecule that transports oxygen to body cells. NOW utilises Ferrochel Iron Bisglycinate as clinical studies indicate it is well absorbed and gentle on the body, not causing constipation.
Read More
9
Gentle on stomach
239 people found this helpful
Iron is a crucial mineral involved in energy production and the immune and nervous systems. It's an essential part of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s cells, and also supports myoglobin in muscle tissue. I recommend NOW’s Ferrochel Iron Bisglycinate, as clinical studies suggest it is effectively absorbed and gentle on the body, hence it does not cause constipation.
Read More
7.5
Supports health effectively
40 people found this helpful
The low dosage of iron supports health and prevention without causing constipation.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 11 Researches
6
- All Researches
9
We assessed how iron supplementation impacts blood donors who may suffer from low iron levels. Our analysis included thirty studies with nearly 4,700 participants, focusing on the differences between those receiving iron and those who didn’t.
We found that iron supplements reduced the chances of donors being deferred due to low hemoglobin levels and helped elevate their hemoglobin and iron stores. However, we also noted more side effects, like constipation and nausea, among those taking iron.
These side effects hinder its widespread use, suggesting iron supplements should be targeted to at-risk individuals only.
We found that iron supplements reduced the chances of donors being deferred due to low hemoglobin levels and helped elevate their hemoglobin and iron stores. However, we also noted more side effects, like constipation and nausea, among those taking iron.
These side effects hinder its widespread use, suggesting iron supplements should be targeted to at-risk individuals only.
Read More
8
This study examined the connection between gastrointestinal issues, particularly constipation, and depression in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA).
Conducted at Trakya University, the case-control study involved 125 IDA patients and 57 healthy individuals.
We found that IDA patients reported constipation significantly more often than the control group, with 56% experiencing this symptom. Additionally, their self-reported intensity of bloating and dyspepsia was notably higher, indicating a clear link between IDA, gastrointestinal discomfort, and potential mental health challenges.
Conducted at Trakya University, the case-control study involved 125 IDA patients and 57 healthy individuals.
We found that IDA patients reported constipation significantly more often than the control group, with 56% experiencing this symptom. Additionally, their self-reported intensity of bloating and dyspepsia was notably higher, indicating a clear link between IDA, gastrointestinal discomfort, and potential mental health challenges.
Read More
8
Infant formula impacts stool consistency
We evaluated how different infant formulas affect the stool characteristics of infants. Two clinical studies focused on infants transitioning from exclusive breastfeeding to formula feeding and those already on formula.
Parents recorded each infant's feeding tolerance, spit-up occurrences, and stool characteristics during the trials. Our findings revealed that the composition of the formula impacts stool consistency.
Specifically, infants consuming formula A exhibited softer stools and more frequent bowel movements compared to those on formula B, which may help lessen concerns about constipation associated with iron-fortified options.
Parents recorded each infant's feeding tolerance, spit-up occurrences, and stool characteristics during the trials. Our findings revealed that the composition of the formula impacts stool consistency.
Specifically, infants consuming formula A exhibited softer stools and more frequent bowel movements compared to those on formula B, which may help lessen concerns about constipation associated with iron-fortified options.
Read More
7
Iron's minimal effect on constipation
We explored the effects of low-dose iron supplementation on gastrointestinal complaints, particularly constipation, in pregnant women. Conducting two randomized studies, we aimed to determine how different forms of iron—ferrous fumarate, ferrous bisglycinate, and ferrous sulphate—would affect the frequency of GI issues among healthy women throughout their pregnancy.
Through our investigations, we found that constipation was only significantly associated with higher doses of ferrous fumarate (80 mg/day). Interestingly, women taking lower doses of ferrous fumarate (20-60 mg/day) did not report more GI side effects, indicating that manageable doses of iron may be tolerated without significant worry about constipation.
Among the iron formulas tested, ferrous bisglycinate at 25 mg showed the best profile, resulting in fewer GI complaints overall compared to the others. In fact, it was linked to a lower incidence of black stools, which can often be associated with iron intake. Ultimately, we observed that while low-dose iron supplementation might incur some side effects, they are generally not severe enough to warrant a change in dosage or interruption of treatment.
Through our investigations, we found that constipation was only significantly associated with higher doses of ferrous fumarate (80 mg/day). Interestingly, women taking lower doses of ferrous fumarate (20-60 mg/day) did not report more GI side effects, indicating that manageable doses of iron may be tolerated without significant worry about constipation.
Among the iron formulas tested, ferrous bisglycinate at 25 mg showed the best profile, resulting in fewer GI complaints overall compared to the others. In fact, it was linked to a lower incidence of black stools, which can often be associated with iron intake. Ultimately, we observed that while low-dose iron supplementation might incur some side effects, they are generally not severe enough to warrant a change in dosage or interruption of treatment.
Read More
7
We carefully looked at the impact of lactoferrin (Lf) on treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children, especially focusing on its connection to constipation. In an extensive review of 11 studies, including 10 randomized controlled trials, we saw promising results where children receiving Lf showed notable improvements in their hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels compared to those who only received iron or a placebo.
Interestingly, we found that while some adverse effects like constipation, vomiting, and abdominal pain were reported, those treated with Lf experienced a significant decrease in constipation. This suggests that Lf not only helps in boosting iron levels but may also be easier on the digestive system than traditional iron supplements.
Overall, our exploration indicates that incorporating lactoferrin in the treatment of IDA in children not only helps address anemia effectively but also might provide a gentler alternative for the gut. Users considering iron supplements for their children might find lactoferrin to be a beneficial option.
Interestingly, we found that while some adverse effects like constipation, vomiting, and abdominal pain were reported, those treated with Lf experienced a significant decrease in constipation. This suggests that Lf not only helps in boosting iron levels but may also be easier on the digestive system than traditional iron supplements.
Overall, our exploration indicates that incorporating lactoferrin in the treatment of IDA in children not only helps address anemia effectively but also might provide a gentler alternative for the gut. Users considering iron supplements for their children might find lactoferrin to be a beneficial option.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 90 Reviews
8.2
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
No constipation noted
286 people found this helpful
Iron is an essential mineral impacting energy production, as well as the immune and nervous systems. It is a key component of haemoglobin, the molecule that transports oxygen to body cells. NOW utilises Ferrochel Iron Bisglycinate as clinical studies indicate it is well absorbed and gentle on the body, not causing constipation.
Read More
9
Gentle on stomach
239 people found this helpful
Iron is a crucial mineral involved in energy production and the immune and nervous systems. It's an essential part of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s cells, and also supports myoglobin in muscle tissue. I recommend NOW’s Ferrochel Iron Bisglycinate, as clinical studies suggest it is effectively absorbed and gentle on the body, hence it does not cause constipation.
Read More
7.5
Supports health effectively
40 people found this helpful
The low dosage of iron supports health and prevention without causing constipation.
Read More
9
No constipation noted
17 people found this helpful
This iron pill does not cause constipation or nausea. It works like a charm after just one pill! It is brilliant in every way.
Read More
7.5
No constipation
17 people found this helpful
Great Vegan Product for Anemics! As someone with anaemia, I always seek quality iron pills! What I loved most about these is that they did not cause constipation, which is common with other iron pills. Additionally, they are vegan-friendly, which is a relief for those concerned about animal byproducts!
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
10
Constipation ceased
2 people found this helpful
Very nice! I was originally constipated and experienced daily stomach pain due to severe constipation, especially before menstruation. After starting this supplement, my constipation ceased completely. I highly recommend it and intend to continue using it.
9
No constipation issues
1 people found this helpful
It has been a year since I started taking these supplements, and I must say, while I initially didn't have any notable anaemia, I often felt fatigued and short of breath. Iron has significantly improved my mental health. I moderated my intake and began consuming this product routinely according to my needs. Immediately, I noticed that my atopic dermatitis subsided, and my skin became firmer – to my surprise! I no longer require dermatologist medication. From a mental perspective, I feel more positive while taking it. I'm pleased to report I don’t suffer from constipation anymore. This supplement has become essential for me.
9
No GI issues
12 people found this helpful
Great iron! I have no gastrointestinal problems or constipation with this iron. I prefer capsules since I know they will dissolve. I would repurchase.
9
Excellent iron boost
12 people found this helpful
Excellent! The pills are great and raised my iron levels from 10 to 29 in a month! Their taste is slightly overwhelming initially, but it doesn't cause constipation. A very reasonable price, enough for about four months, and my iron reserves and hair loss have improved significantly.
9
No aftertaste
2 people found this helpful
This iron preparation is excellent as it does not cause constipation and has no unpleasant aftertaste. I take it alongside vitamin C for better absorption.
9
A boon for mothers
7 people found this helpful
Good iron without constipation! During my pregnancy, hemoglobin levels dropped, with all recommended pharmacy products causing constipation. I took this iron, 2 capsules, and experienced no constipation. Hemoglobin levels started to rise. I recommend it to all future mothers.
9
Improved absorption
6 people found this helpful
There is a noticeable difference; my stool does not turn black, indicating better absorption. In the past, I drank iron from other brands that caused the stool to darken. I have switched to this product, and symptoms such as constipation have ceased. I’ve also noticed PMS symptoms have alleviated and menstrual fluctuations are improved, which suggests that the iron is being absorbed effectively.
10
Quality assurance
5 people found this helpful
Iron is crucial for energy production and immune function. NOW's Ferrochel Iron Glycinate is clinically proven to have superior absorption without causing constipation, making it suitable for everyone, including vegetarians.
4
Iron supplementation effects on constipation
We examined how different types of iron supplementation affect pregnant women, particularly focusing on potential constipation as a side effect. In a systematic review and meta-analysis, we gathered data from 26 studies involving nearly 4,400 participants to compare daily and intermittent iron supplementation.
Interestingly, we found that daily oral iron supplementation was associated with a higher occurrence of constipation compared to intermittent supplementation. The adjusted odds ratio for constipation was 1.95, indicating a nearly two-fold increase in risk for those taking daily iron. However, our analysis revealed that both daily and intermittent iron supplements could increase hemoglobin levels effectively, showing no significant difference in overall efficacy.
Ultimately, while daily iron supplementation led to better ferritin levels, women experienced more adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. This suggests that intermittent iron supplementation could be a more favorable option, especially for those who are sensitive to the side effects associated with daily doses.
Interestingly, we found that daily oral iron supplementation was associated with a higher occurrence of constipation compared to intermittent supplementation. The adjusted odds ratio for constipation was 1.95, indicating a nearly two-fold increase in risk for those taking daily iron. However, our analysis revealed that both daily and intermittent iron supplements could increase hemoglobin levels effectively, showing no significant difference in overall efficacy.
Ultimately, while daily iron supplementation led to better ferritin levels, women experienced more adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. This suggests that intermittent iron supplementation could be a more favorable option, especially for those who are sensitive to the side effects associated with daily doses.
5
Constipation prevalence linked to iron
We investigated the prevalence and contributing factors of constipation among healthy pregnant women over the course of their pregnancy. Our longitudinal study showed that constipation affects about 24% of women during various stages of pregnancy and even postpartum.
Notably, we found that iron supplementation was linked to a higher risk of constipation. This means that while iron is an important nutrient during pregnancy, it may also contribute to discomfort for some women.
These findings highlight the importance of monitoring bowel health as part of prenatal care.
Notably, we found that iron supplementation was linked to a higher risk of constipation. This means that while iron is an important nutrient during pregnancy, it may also contribute to discomfort for some women.
These findings highlight the importance of monitoring bowel health as part of prenatal care.
7
We carefully looked at the impact of lactoferrin (Lf) on treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children, especially focusing on its connection to constipation. In an extensive review of 11 studies, including 10 randomized controlled trials, we saw promising results where children receiving Lf showed notable improvements in their hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels compared to those who only received iron or a placebo.
Interestingly, we found that while some adverse effects like constipation, vomiting, and abdominal pain were reported, those treated with Lf experienced a significant decrease in constipation. This suggests that Lf not only helps in boosting iron levels but may also be easier on the digestive system than traditional iron supplements.
Overall, our exploration indicates that incorporating lactoferrin in the treatment of IDA in children not only helps address anemia effectively but also might provide a gentler alternative for the gut. Users considering iron supplements for their children might find lactoferrin to be a beneficial option.
Interestingly, we found that while some adverse effects like constipation, vomiting, and abdominal pain were reported, those treated with Lf experienced a significant decrease in constipation. This suggests that Lf not only helps in boosting iron levels but may also be easier on the digestive system than traditional iron supplements.
Overall, our exploration indicates that incorporating lactoferrin in the treatment of IDA in children not only helps address anemia effectively but also might provide a gentler alternative for the gut. Users considering iron supplements for their children might find lactoferrin to be a beneficial option.
2
We examined how sucroferric oxyhydroxide (SFOH), an iron-based phosphate binder, affects gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, in hemodialysis patients. Our study involved six patients over eight weeks and revealed no significant changes in constipation scores, remaining stable throughout the treatment.
Meanwhile, we noticed a significant reduction in serum phosphorus levels and a marked improvement in diarrhea scores. This suggests that while SFOH effectively managed phosphorus levels, it did not worsen constipation, which is a reassuring finding for patients concerned about gastrointestinal side effects.
Meanwhile, we noticed a significant reduction in serum phosphorus levels and a marked improvement in diarrhea scores. This suggests that while SFOH effectively managed phosphorus levels, it did not worsen constipation, which is a reassuring finding for patients concerned about gastrointestinal side effects.
7
Iron's minimal effect on constipation
We explored the effects of low-dose iron supplementation on gastrointestinal complaints, particularly constipation, in pregnant women. Conducting two randomized studies, we aimed to determine how different forms of iron—ferrous fumarate, ferrous bisglycinate, and ferrous sulphate—would affect the frequency of GI issues among healthy women throughout their pregnancy.
Through our investigations, we found that constipation was only significantly associated with higher doses of ferrous fumarate (80 mg/day). Interestingly, women taking lower doses of ferrous fumarate (20-60 mg/day) did not report more GI side effects, indicating that manageable doses of iron may be tolerated without significant worry about constipation.
Among the iron formulas tested, ferrous bisglycinate at 25 mg showed the best profile, resulting in fewer GI complaints overall compared to the others. In fact, it was linked to a lower incidence of black stools, which can often be associated with iron intake. Ultimately, we observed that while low-dose iron supplementation might incur some side effects, they are generally not severe enough to warrant a change in dosage or interruption of treatment.
Through our investigations, we found that constipation was only significantly associated with higher doses of ferrous fumarate (80 mg/day). Interestingly, women taking lower doses of ferrous fumarate (20-60 mg/day) did not report more GI side effects, indicating that manageable doses of iron may be tolerated without significant worry about constipation.
Among the iron formulas tested, ferrous bisglycinate at 25 mg showed the best profile, resulting in fewer GI complaints overall compared to the others. In fact, it was linked to a lower incidence of black stools, which can often be associated with iron intake. Ultimately, we observed that while low-dose iron supplementation might incur some side effects, they are generally not severe enough to warrant a change in dosage or interruption of treatment.
References
- Milman NT, Bergholt T. Low-Dose Prophylactic Oral Iron Supplementation (Ferrous Fumarate, Ferrous Bisglycinate, and Ferrous Sulphate) in Pregnancy Is Not Associated With Clinically Significant Gastrointestinal Complaints: Results From Two Randomized Studies. J Pregnancy. 2024;2024:1716798. doi:10.1155/2024/1716798
- Banerjee A, Athalye S, Shingade P, Khargekar V, Mahajan N, et al. Efficacy of daily versus intermittent oral iron supplementation for prevention of anaemia among pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine. 2024;74:102742. doi:10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102742
- June D, Konstantin AT, Lumbanradja LA, Aryani A, Hengky A. Lactoferrin as treatment for iron-deficiency anemia in children: a systematic review. Turk J Pediatr. 2023;65:543. doi:10.24953/turkjped.2022.670
- Suzuki D, Ichie T, Hayashi H, Sugiura Y, Sugiyama T. Efficacy of sucroferric oxyhydroxide treatment in Japanese hemodialysis patients and its effect on gastrointestinal symptoms. Pharmazie. 2017;72:118. doi:10.1691/ph.2017.6848
- Abdel Moety GAF, Ali AM, Fouad R, Ramadan W, Belal DS, et al. Amino acid chelated iron versus an iron salt in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia with pregnancy: A randomized controlled study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2017;210:242. doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.01.003
- Pamuk GE, Uyanik MS, Top MS, Tapan U, Ak R, et al. Gastrointestinal symptoms are closely associated with depression in iron deficiency anemia: a comparative study. Ann Saudi Med. 2015;35:31. doi:10.5144/0256-4947.2015.31
- Smith GA, Fisher SA, Doree C, Di Angelantonio E, Roberts DJ. Oral or parenteral iron supplementation to reduce deferral, iron deficiency and/or anaemia in blood donors. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;2014:CD009532. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009532.pub2
- Pereira DI, Couto Irving SS, Lomer MC, Powell JJ. A rapid, simple questionnaire to assess gastrointestinal symptoms after oral ferrous sulphate supplementation. BMC Gastroenterol. 2014;14:103. doi:10.1186/1471-230X-14-103
- Bradley CS, Kennedy CM, Turcea AM, Rao SS, Nygaard IE. Constipation in pregnancy: prevalence, symptoms, and risk factors. Obstet Gynecol. 2007;110:1351.
- Singhal A, Morley R, Abbott R, Fairweather-Tait S, Stephenson T, et al. Clinical safety of iron-fortified formulas. Pediatrics. 2000;105:E38.
- Lloyd B, Halter RJ, Kuchan MJ, Baggs GE, Ryan AS, et al. Formula tolerance in postbreastfed and exclusively formula-fed infants. Pediatrics. 1999;103:E7.
