
Original: $9.95
-65%$9.95
$3.48The Story
Is Iron Bisglycinate Supplement Right for You?
Iron is one of the most important minerals your body needs, yet it's also one of the most commonly lacking nutrients in the UK diet. The NHS estimates that iron deficiency is the most widespread nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting energy levels, concentration, and the normal formation of red blood cells. If you've been feeling unusually tired, pale, or short of breath, low iron could be a contributing factor. Iron bisglycinate supplement in this gentle, low-dose format from Natures Aid offers a well-tolerated way to top up your intake without the harsh digestive side effects often linked to standard iron tablets. You can browse the full range of supporting nutrients in our vitamins and supplements collection.
Each tablet provides 14mg of elemental iron in the bisglycinate form — a chelated iron that is bound to two glycine amino acids. This 90-tablet pack represents a three-month supply at the standard one-tablet-per-day dose, making it a practical and cost-effective option at just £9.95.
How Does Iron Bisglycinate Work in the Body?
Iron bisglycinate works differently from conventional iron salts like ferrous sulphate. Because the iron is chelated — essentially wrapped in amino acids — it resists binding to other compounds in the gut that would otherwise block absorption. Here's how the process unfolds:
- The chelated iron passes through the stomach largely intact, protected from inhibitors like phytates and tannins found in food.
- It is absorbed through the intestinal wall via a different pathway to non-chelated iron, which reduces competition with other minerals.
- Once absorbed, iron is incorporated into haemoglobin in red blood cells, supporting oxygen transport throughout the body.
- Iron also contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, as recognised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Because less unabsorbed iron remains in the gut, the risk of constipation, nausea, and stomach cramps is considerably lower than with higher-dose iron salts.
Who Should Consider Taking This Iron Supplement?
This supplement is designed for adults and young people over 12 who need to maintain or restore adequate iron levels. It is particularly relevant if you fall into one of the following groups:
- Women with heavy menstrual periods, who lose iron regularly each month
- Vegetarians and vegans, whose diets may be lower in haem iron (the form found in meat)
- Pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy, as iron requirements increase significantly
- People recovering from illness, surgery, or blood loss
- Those who feel persistently tired or fatigued without an obvious cause
It is not intended to treat diagnosed iron deficiency anaemia, which requires medical assessment and often higher-dose prescription iron. If you suspect anaemia, please speak to your GP before self-supplementing.
How Does Iron Bisglycinate Compare to Ferrous Sulphate?
| Feature | Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg | Ferrous Sulphate 200mg (65mg elemental) |
|---|---|---|
| Elemental iron per dose | 14mg | 65mg |
| Absorption mechanism | Chelated — amino acid-bound | Non-chelated ionic iron |
| GI side effects | Generally low | More common (constipation, nausea) |
| Suitable for | Maintenance, mild deficiency, sensitive stomachs | Confirmed iron deficiency anaemia (prescription) |
| Prescription required | No — OTC supplement | Often prescribed by GP |
Is Iron Bisglycinate Suitable for Vegans and How Should It Be Stored?
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate tablets are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as the capsule shell and excipients are plant-based. If you follow a plant-based diet and are concerned about your iron intake, this iron bisglycinate supplement fits neatly into a vegan lifestyle. Women in particular may find it useful alongside other women's health supplements to support overall wellbeing.
Store the tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
This product is a food supplement, not a medicine. However, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Iron supplementation / nutritional support |
| Mechanism of action | Chelated iron absorbed via amino acid transport pathway in the intestine |
| Effective for | Supporting normal red blood cell formation, energy metabolism, and reduction of tiredness |
| Suitable for | Adults and children over 12; vegetarians; vegans; pregnant women (seek GP advice) |
| Active ingredient | Iron bisglycinate (providing 14mg elemental iron) |
| Pack size | 90 tablets |
| Strength | 14mg elemental iron per tablet |
| UK classification | Food supplement (not a licensed medicine) |
| Drug class | Chelated mineral supplement |
| Preparation | Tablet |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 Tablets
What Is Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate and What Is It Used For?
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg is a food supplement providing chelated iron to help maintain normal iron levels in adults and adolescents over 12. Iron is an essential mineral that the body cannot produce on its own — it must come from diet or supplementation. The NHS confirms that iron plays a key role in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body, and that a lack of iron can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, causing symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath.
This supplement is intended for people who may not get enough iron from their diet alone, or who have increased iron requirements. It is not a treatment for diagnosed anaemia — if you have been told by a doctor that you have iron deficiency anaemia, you will likely need a higher-dose prescription iron preparation.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Iron Bisglycinate?
Before starting any iron supplement, it's worth checking whether it's appropriate for you. Do not take this supplement if any of the following apply:
- You have haemochromatosis (iron overload disorder) or another condition causing excess iron storage
- You have a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the tablet
- You are under 12 years of age
- You have been advised by a doctor to avoid iron supplements
- You have active inflammatory bowel disease — seek medical advice first
Iron supplements can interact with several medicines and nutrients. The following interactions are clinically recognised:
- Antacids and proton pump inhibitors — may reduce iron absorption; take iron at least two hours apart
- Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics — iron can reduce antibiotic absorption; separate doses by at least two hours
- Levothyroxine (thyroid medication) — iron can impair absorption; take at least four hours apart
- Calcium supplements and dairy — calcium competes with iron for absorption; avoid taking together
- Vitamin C — enhances non-haem iron absorption; taking together may be beneficial
How Should You Use Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate?
Using this supplement correctly makes a real difference to how well your body absorbs the iron. Follow these steps for best results:
- Take one tablet daily — do not exceed this dose unless directed by a healthcare professional.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
- Take with or shortly after food to reduce the chance of stomach discomfort.
- Avoid taking alongside tea, coffee, dairy products, or calcium supplements, as these inhibit iron absorption.
- If you are taking any prescription medicines, check with your pharmacist about the best timing.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dietary iron maintenance | Adults and children over 12 | 1 tablet (14mg elemental iron) | Once daily |
| Not recommended | Under 12 years | — | — |
The NHS recommends that adults need 8.7mg of iron per day (men and post-menopausal women) and 14.8mg per day for women of reproductive age. This supplement provides 14mg elemental iron, which sits within the nutritional reference range for most adults.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Iron Bisglycinate?
Iron bisglycinate is widely regarded as one of the gentler forms of supplemental iron. That said, some people may still experience mild effects, particularly when first starting supplementation. If you're also managing digestive concerns, it may be worth exploring our IBS and cramps collection for additional support.
Common side effects (may affect some users):
- Dark or black stools — this is harmless and expected with iron supplementation
- Mild nausea, particularly if taken on an empty stomach
- Constipation or changes in bowel habits
- Stomach discomfort or bloating
Less common side effects (affect fewer users):
- Diarrhoea
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling) — stop use immediately and seek medical advice
Iron bisglycinate typically causes fewer gastrointestinal side effects than ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate, which is one reason it is often chosen by people with sensitive stomachs.
How Should You Store Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate?
Correct storage keeps the tablets effective for their full shelf life. Follow these guidelines:
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat or moisture
- Keep the lid tightly closed after each use
- Store out of sight and reach of children — iron overdose in young children is a medical emergency
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the base of the bottle
- Do not transfer tablets to another container
If you are looking for further support for your overall health and wellbeing, our vitamins and supplements collection includes a wide range of products to complement your daily routine.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/iron/
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/meat-in-a-healthy-diet/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/ferrous-salts/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg online in the UK?
You can order Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £9.95. No prescription is needed as this is an over-the-counter food supplement. It is also available in some health food shops and larger pharmacies across the UK.
How does iron bisglycinate work in the body?
Iron bisglycinate is a chelated form of iron, meaning the iron atom is bound to two glycine amino acids. This structure protects the iron from inhibitors in the gut — such as phytates and tannins — and allows it to be absorbed via a separate intestinal pathway, improving uptake and reducing digestive side effects. Once absorbed, iron is used to produce haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells.
How do I take Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate step by step?
Take one tablet daily with a full glass of water, ideally with or after a meal to reduce any stomach discomfort. Avoid taking it alongside tea, coffee, dairy, or antacids, as these can reduce how much iron your body absorbs. If you are on prescription medicines, check with your pharmacist about the best time to take your iron tablet.
What is the best time of day to take an iron bisglycinate supplement?
There is no single universally "correct" time, but many people find taking iron with breakfast or lunch — alongside a vitamin C-rich food or drink — works well. Taking it in the morning also makes it easier to remember as part of a daily routine. Avoid taking it last thing at night on an empty stomach, as this can increase the chance of nausea.
What are the side effects of iron bisglycinate and how do I manage them?
The most common side effects are dark stools (which are harmless), mild nausea, and occasional constipation. Taking the tablet with food rather than on an empty stomach usually reduces these effects significantly. If you experience persistent stomach pain, vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction such as a rash or swelling, stop taking the supplement and speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Who is eligible to take Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg?
This supplement is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have low dietary iron intake or increased iron requirements — including vegetarians, vegans, women with heavy periods, and those who feel persistently tired. It is not suitable for children under 12, people with haemochromatosis (iron overload), or those with a known allergy to any ingredient. Pregnant women should consult their midwife or GP before starting any iron supplement.
What happens if I miss a dose of iron bisglycinate?
If you forget to take your tablet, simply take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If you don't remember until the following day, skip the missed dose entirely and continue with your normal schedule. Never take two tablets in one day to make up for a missed dose, as this increases the risk of side effects.
How does iron bisglycinate compare to ferrous sulphate?
Iron bisglycinate provides a lower dose of elemental iron (14mg) compared to ferrous sulphate tablets (typically 65mg elemental iron), but it is absorbed more efficiently and causes fewer gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation and nausea. Ferrous sulphate is the standard NHS prescription treatment for confirmed iron deficiency anaemia, whereas iron bisglycinate is better suited to maintenance supplementation and prevention. If you have been diagnosed with anaemia, speak to your GP about the most appropriate treatment.
Is Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate suitable for vegans?
Yes, Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate tablets are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, as the tablet ingredients are plant-based. This makes it a practical choice for people following a plant-based diet, who may have lower dietary intake of haem iron (the form found in meat and fish). You can find other vegan-friendly health products in our vegan collection.
Can I take iron bisglycinate during pregnancy?
Iron requirements increase significantly during pregnancy, and the NHS advises that some pregnant women may need an iron supplement. However, you should always speak to your midwife or GP before starting any supplement during pregnancy, as they can check your iron levels and advise on the most appropriate dose and form of iron for your individual needs. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat iron deficiency during pregnancy.
How long should I take an iron bisglycinate supplement for?
For general dietary maintenance, many people take an iron supplement for as long as their dietary intake remains insufficient — this could be ongoing for vegetarians or vegans, or seasonal for those with fluctuating diets. If you are supplementing to address a specific deficiency, it is worth having your iron levels checked by your GP after two to three months to assess whether supplementation should continue. Do not take high-dose iron supplements long-term without medical supervision.
Can iron bisglycinate cause constipation?
Constipation is a well-known side effect of iron supplementation in general, but iron bisglycinate is associated with a lower risk of this compared to ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate. If you do experience constipation, try taking the tablet with food, increasing your fluid intake, and eating more fibre-rich foods. If constipation persists, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest a stool softener or an alternative iron preparation.
Does vitamin C help with iron absorption from bisglycinate supplements?
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is known to enhance the absorption of non-haem iron — the type found in plant foods and supplements — by converting it into a more soluble form. While iron bisglycinate is already well absorbed due to its chelated structure, taking it alongside a small glass of orange juice or a vitamin C supplement may provide an additional absorption benefit. This is particularly relevant for vegetarians and vegans who rely entirely on non-haem iron sources.
What are the latest findings on iron bisglycinate supplementation?
Research published in clinical nutrition journals consistently shows that iron bisglycinate is as effective as ferrous sulphate for raising iron stores, but with significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects, making it better tolerated for long-term use. Studies in pregnant women and adolescents have found it particularly useful where compliance with standard iron tablets is poor due to side effects. Always discuss the most current evidence with your GP or pharmacist when choosing an iron supplement.
Are there any foods I should avoid when taking iron bisglycinate?
Yes — certain foods and drinks can significantly reduce iron absorption if consumed at the same time as your supplement. These include tea, coffee, milk and dairy products, wholegrain cereals (due to phytates), and foods high in calcium. Try to leave at least one to two hours between taking your iron tablet and consuming these foods. Conversely, foods rich in vitamin C — such as citrus fruits, peppers, and broccoli — can help boost absorption if eaten alongside your supplement. For additional digestive health support, explore our IBS and cramps collection.
Description
Is Iron Bisglycinate Supplement Right for You?
Iron is one of the most important minerals your body needs, yet it's also one of the most commonly lacking nutrients in the UK diet. The NHS estimates that iron deficiency is the most widespread nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting energy levels, concentration, and the normal formation of red blood cells. If you've been feeling unusually tired, pale, or short of breath, low iron could be a contributing factor. Iron bisglycinate supplement in this gentle, low-dose format from Natures Aid offers a well-tolerated way to top up your intake without the harsh digestive side effects often linked to standard iron tablets. You can browse the full range of supporting nutrients in our vitamins and supplements collection.
Each tablet provides 14mg of elemental iron in the bisglycinate form — a chelated iron that is bound to two glycine amino acids. This 90-tablet pack represents a three-month supply at the standard one-tablet-per-day dose, making it a practical and cost-effective option at just £9.95.
How Does Iron Bisglycinate Work in the Body?
Iron bisglycinate works differently from conventional iron salts like ferrous sulphate. Because the iron is chelated — essentially wrapped in amino acids — it resists binding to other compounds in the gut that would otherwise block absorption. Here's how the process unfolds:
- The chelated iron passes through the stomach largely intact, protected from inhibitors like phytates and tannins found in food.
- It is absorbed through the intestinal wall via a different pathway to non-chelated iron, which reduces competition with other minerals.
- Once absorbed, iron is incorporated into haemoglobin in red blood cells, supporting oxygen transport throughout the body.
- Iron also contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, as recognised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Because less unabsorbed iron remains in the gut, the risk of constipation, nausea, and stomach cramps is considerably lower than with higher-dose iron salts.
Who Should Consider Taking This Iron Supplement?
This supplement is designed for adults and young people over 12 who need to maintain or restore adequate iron levels. It is particularly relevant if you fall into one of the following groups:
- Women with heavy menstrual periods, who lose iron regularly each month
- Vegetarians and vegans, whose diets may be lower in haem iron (the form found in meat)
- Pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy, as iron requirements increase significantly
- People recovering from illness, surgery, or blood loss
- Those who feel persistently tired or fatigued without an obvious cause
It is not intended to treat diagnosed iron deficiency anaemia, which requires medical assessment and often higher-dose prescription iron. If you suspect anaemia, please speak to your GP before self-supplementing.
How Does Iron Bisglycinate Compare to Ferrous Sulphate?
| Feature | Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg | Ferrous Sulphate 200mg (65mg elemental) |
|---|---|---|
| Elemental iron per dose | 14mg | 65mg |
| Absorption mechanism | Chelated — amino acid-bound | Non-chelated ionic iron |
| GI side effects | Generally low | More common (constipation, nausea) |
| Suitable for | Maintenance, mild deficiency, sensitive stomachs | Confirmed iron deficiency anaemia (prescription) |
| Prescription required | No — OTC supplement | Often prescribed by GP |
Is Iron Bisglycinate Suitable for Vegans and How Should It Be Stored?
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate tablets are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as the capsule shell and excipients are plant-based. If you follow a plant-based diet and are concerned about your iron intake, this iron bisglycinate supplement fits neatly into a vegan lifestyle. Women in particular may find it useful alongside other women's health supplements to support overall wellbeing.
Store the tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
This product is a food supplement, not a medicine. However, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Iron supplementation / nutritional support |
| Mechanism of action | Chelated iron absorbed via amino acid transport pathway in the intestine |
| Effective for | Supporting normal red blood cell formation, energy metabolism, and reduction of tiredness |
| Suitable for | Adults and children over 12; vegetarians; vegans; pregnant women (seek GP advice) |
| Active ingredient | Iron bisglycinate (providing 14mg elemental iron) |
| Pack size | 90 tablets |
| Strength | 14mg elemental iron per tablet |
| UK classification | Food supplement (not a licensed medicine) |
| Drug class | Chelated mineral supplement |
| Preparation | Tablet |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 Tablets
What Is Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate and What Is It Used For?
Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg is a food supplement providing chelated iron to help maintain normal iron levels in adults and adolescents over 12. Iron is an essential mineral that the body cannot produce on its own — it must come from diet or supplementation. The NHS confirms that iron plays a key role in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body, and that a lack of iron can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, causing symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath.
This supplement is intended for people who may not get enough iron from their diet alone, or who have increased iron requirements. It is not a treatment for diagnosed anaemia — if you have been told by a doctor that you have iron deficiency anaemia, you will likely need a higher-dose prescription iron preparation.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Iron Bisglycinate?
Before starting any iron supplement, it's worth checking whether it's appropriate for you. Do not take this supplement if any of the following apply:
- You have haemochromatosis (iron overload disorder) or another condition causing excess iron storage
- You have a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the tablet
- You are under 12 years of age
- You have been advised by a doctor to avoid iron supplements
- You have active inflammatory bowel disease — seek medical advice first
Iron supplements can interact with several medicines and nutrients. The following interactions are clinically recognised:
- Antacids and proton pump inhibitors — may reduce iron absorption; take iron at least two hours apart
- Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics — iron can reduce antibiotic absorption; separate doses by at least two hours
- Levothyroxine (thyroid medication) — iron can impair absorption; take at least four hours apart
- Calcium supplements and dairy — calcium competes with iron for absorption; avoid taking together
- Vitamin C — enhances non-haem iron absorption; taking together may be beneficial
How Should You Use Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate?
Using this supplement correctly makes a real difference to how well your body absorbs the iron. Follow these steps for best results:
- Take one tablet daily — do not exceed this dose unless directed by a healthcare professional.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
- Take with or shortly after food to reduce the chance of stomach discomfort.
- Avoid taking alongside tea, coffee, dairy products, or calcium supplements, as these inhibit iron absorption.
- If you are taking any prescription medicines, check with your pharmacist about the best timing.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dietary iron maintenance | Adults and children over 12 | 1 tablet (14mg elemental iron) | Once daily |
| Not recommended | Under 12 years | — | — |
The NHS recommends that adults need 8.7mg of iron per day (men and post-menopausal women) and 14.8mg per day for women of reproductive age. This supplement provides 14mg elemental iron, which sits within the nutritional reference range for most adults.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Iron Bisglycinate?
Iron bisglycinate is widely regarded as one of the gentler forms of supplemental iron. That said, some people may still experience mild effects, particularly when first starting supplementation. If you're also managing digestive concerns, it may be worth exploring our IBS and cramps collection for additional support.
Common side effects (may affect some users):
- Dark or black stools — this is harmless and expected with iron supplementation
- Mild nausea, particularly if taken on an empty stomach
- Constipation or changes in bowel habits
- Stomach discomfort or bloating
Less common side effects (affect fewer users):
- Diarrhoea
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling) — stop use immediately and seek medical advice
Iron bisglycinate typically causes fewer gastrointestinal side effects than ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate, which is one reason it is often chosen by people with sensitive stomachs.
How Should You Store Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate?
Correct storage keeps the tablets effective for their full shelf life. Follow these guidelines:
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat or moisture
- Keep the lid tightly closed after each use
- Store out of sight and reach of children — iron overdose in young children is a medical emergency
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the base of the bottle
- Do not transfer tablets to another container
If you are looking for further support for your overall health and wellbeing, our vitamins and supplements collection includes a wide range of products to complement your daily routine.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/iron/
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/meat-in-a-healthy-diet/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/ferrous-salts/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg online in the UK?
You can order Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate Elemental 14mg 90 tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £9.95. No prescription is needed as this is an over-the-counter food supplement. It is also available in some health food shops and larger pharmacies across the UK.
How does iron bisglycinate work in the body?
Iron bisglycinate is a chelated form of iron, meaning the iron atom is bound to two glycine amino acids. This structure protects the iron from inhibitors in the gut — such as phytates and tannins — and allows it to be absorbed via a separate intestinal pathway, improving uptake and reducing digestive side effects. Once absorbed, iron is used to produce haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells.
How do I take Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate step by step?
Take one tablet daily with a full glass of water, ideally with or after a meal to reduce any stomach discomfort. Avoid taking it alongside tea, coffee, dairy, or antacids, as these can reduce how much iron your body absorbs. If you are on prescription medicines, check with your pharmacist about the best time to take your iron tablet.
What is the best time of day to take an iron bisglycinate supplement?
There is no single universally "correct" time, but many people find taking iron with breakfast or lunch — alongside a vitamin C-rich food or drink — works well. Taking it in the morning also makes it easier to remember as part of a daily routine. Avoid taking it last thing at night on an empty stomach, as this can increase the chance of nausea.
What are the side effects of iron bisglycinate and how do I manage them?
The most common side effects are dark stools (which are harmless), mild nausea, and occasional constipation. Taking the tablet with food rather than on an empty stomach usually reduces these effects significantly. If you experience persistent stomach pain, vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction such as a rash or swelling, stop taking the supplement and speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Who is eligible to take Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate 14mg?
This supplement is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have low dietary iron intake or increased iron requirements — including vegetarians, vegans, women with heavy periods, and those who feel persistently tired. It is not suitable for children under 12, people with haemochromatosis (iron overload), or those with a known allergy to any ingredient. Pregnant women should consult their midwife or GP before starting any iron supplement.
What happens if I miss a dose of iron bisglycinate?
If you forget to take your tablet, simply take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If you don't remember until the following day, skip the missed dose entirely and continue with your normal schedule. Never take two tablets in one day to make up for a missed dose, as this increases the risk of side effects.
How does iron bisglycinate compare to ferrous sulphate?
Iron bisglycinate provides a lower dose of elemental iron (14mg) compared to ferrous sulphate tablets (typically 65mg elemental iron), but it is absorbed more efficiently and causes fewer gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation and nausea. Ferrous sulphate is the standard NHS prescription treatment for confirmed iron deficiency anaemia, whereas iron bisglycinate is better suited to maintenance supplementation and prevention. If you have been diagnosed with anaemia, speak to your GP about the most appropriate treatment.
Is Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate suitable for vegans?
Yes, Natures Aid Iron Bisglycinate tablets are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, as the tablet ingredients are plant-based. This makes it a practical choice for people following a plant-based diet, who may have lower dietary intake of haem iron (the form found in meat and fish). You can find other vegan-friendly health products in our vegan collection.
Can I take iron bisglycinate during pregnancy?
Iron requirements increase significantly during pregnancy, and the NHS advises that some pregnant women may need an iron supplement. However, you should always speak to your midwife or GP before starting any supplement during pregnancy, as they can check your iron levels and advise on the most appropriate dose and form of iron for your individual needs. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat iron deficiency during pregnancy.
How long should I take an iron bisglycinate supplement for?
For general dietary maintenance, many people take an iron supplement for as long as their dietary intake remains insufficient — this could be ongoing for vegetarians or vegans, or seasonal for those with fluctuating diets. If you are supplementing to address a specific deficiency, it is worth having your iron levels checked by your GP after two to three months to assess whether supplementation should continue. Do not take high-dose iron supplements long-term without medical supervision.
Can iron bisglycinate cause constipation?
Constipation is a well-known side effect of iron supplementation in general, but iron bisglycinate is associated with a lower risk of this compared to ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate. If you do experience constipation, try taking the tablet with food, increasing your fluid intake, and eating more fibre-rich foods. If constipation persists, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest a stool softener or an alternative iron preparation.
Does vitamin C help with iron absorption from bisglycinate supplements?
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is known to enhance the absorption of non-haem iron — the type found in plant foods and supplements — by converting it into a more soluble form. While iron bisglycinate is already well absorbed due to its chelated structure, taking it alongside a small glass of orange juice or a vitamin C supplement may provide an additional absorption benefit. This is particularly relevant for vegetarians and vegans who rely entirely on non-haem iron sources.
What are the latest findings on iron bisglycinate supplementation?
Research published in clinical nutrition journals consistently shows that iron bisglycinate is as effective as ferrous sulphate for raising iron stores, but with significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects, making it better tolerated for long-term use. Studies in pregnant women and adolescents have found it particularly useful where compliance with standard iron tablets is poor due to side effects. Always discuss the most current evidence with your GP or pharmacist when choosing an iron supplement.
Are there any foods I should avoid when taking iron bisglycinate?
Yes — certain foods and drinks can significantly reduce iron absorption if consumed at the same time as your supplement. These include tea, coffee, milk and dairy products, wholegrain cereals (due to phytates), and foods high in calcium. Try to leave at least one to two hours between taking your iron tablet and consuming these foods. Conversely, foods rich in vitamin C — such as citrus fruits, peppers, and broccoli — can help boost absorption if eaten alongside your supplement. For additional digestive health support, explore our IBS and cramps collection.











