Question:
Chelated Iron

I had gastric bypass 5 years ago. I have been taking Carbonyl Iron ( The Perfect Iron) 4 pills a day for a year and I am still anemic. My doctor told me to switch to Chelated Iron. Whats the difference in all of these irons. I like the Perfect Iron because it doesn't cause constipation. Does Chelated iron cause constipation?    — Ellen M. (posted on September 25, 2002)

September 25, 2002
Chelated simply means the Iron is bonded with a mineral that aids in absorption. I too bought some of the "Perfect Iron" but haven't used it yet because I discovered it was bonded with Calcium and everything I've ever read here says calcium blocks iron's absorption. I think the best iron is chelated with Vitamin C which greatly aids the absorption. I've been using the chewable chelated Iron/C for a year now; my labs are great and I've never had any problems with constipation.
   — LLinderman

September 25, 2002
Were you taking your Perfects with C, no dairy or caffeine, other vites or meinerals or meds for an hour? They are usually very well absorbed, though it is possible it's not enough mg for YOUR body. Did the doc suggest upping your dosage?
   — vitalady