Iron Bisglycinate vs Vitamin C (Liposomal)

Mechanism

Iron is essential for hemoglobin (oxygen transport), myoglobin (muscle oxygen storage), cytochrome enzymes (electron transport chain — Complexes I, II, III, IV), cytochrome P450 enzymes (drug/hormone metabolism), catalase (H2O2 decomposition), ribonucleotide reductase (DNA synthesis), and aconitase (Krebs cycle). Iron bisglycinate (Ferrochel) uses amino acid chelation to bypass the normal DMT1/ferroportin pathway, instead being absorbed intact via PepT1 transporter. This mechanism avoids the GI side effects of ionic iron (free Fe2+ generates hydroxyl radicals via Fenton reaction in the gut lumen) and is not inhibited by phytates, tannins, or calcium.

Standard Dosing

25-36mg elemental iron (as bisglycinate) daily for deficiency correction

Timing

On empty stomach or with vitamin C for absorption. Alternate day dosing (every other day) may be superior due to hepcidin cycling. Separate from calcium, zinc, tea, coffee by 2+ hours.

Cycle Duration

Until ferritin >50 ng/mL, then reassess (typically 3-6 months). Not for ongoing supplementation unless chronic blood loss.

Side Effects

• GI distress (significantly less than ferrous sulfate)
• Constipation (less common with bisglycinate)
• Dark stools
• Nausea
• Iron overload if supplemented unnecessarily

Contraindications

• Hemochromatosis
• Iron overload conditions
• Thalassemia (without documented deficiency)
• Hemolytic anemias (unless also iron deficient)
• Chronic transfusion therapy

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

Ascorbic acid is an essential electron donor and cofactor for numerous enzymatic reactions. It is required for collagen synthesis (prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases), carnitine biosynthesis, catecholamine synthesis (dopamine beta-hydroxylase), and alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases including HIF-prolyl hydroxylases and TET methylcytosine dioxygenases (epigenetic regulation). It regenerates oxidized vitamin E, supports immune function via neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and lymphocyte proliferation. Liposomal delivery bypasses SVCT1/2 transporter saturation, achieving plasma levels closer to IV administration.

Standard Dosing

1000-2000mg liposomal vitamin C daily

Timing

Divided doses throughout the day (every 4-6 hours) for optimal plasma levels. Away from high-dose minerals.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Diarrhea/GI upset at high non-liposomal doses (bowel tolerance)
• Kidney stone risk (oxalate pathway)
• False blood sugar readings on glucometers
• Dental erosion (chewable forms)

Contraindications

• Hemochromatosis (enhances iron absorption)
• G6PD deficiency (high-dose IV can cause hemolytic anemia)
• History of calcium oxalate kidney stones (may increase oxalate at high oral doses)
• Renal insufficiency (accumulation risk)

Best Stacking Partners