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Chelated

A mineral bound to an amino acid carrier, usually for better absorption.

A chelated mineral is bonded to an organic molecule (typically the amino acid glycine) instead of being a simple inorganic salt. Examples: magnesium glycinate, iron bisglycinate, zinc picolinate.

Chelated forms generally:

  • Absorb better (the gut wall has dedicated transporters for amino-acid-bound minerals)
  • Cause fewer GI side effects (no laxative-grade osmotic load like with magnesium oxide)
  • Cost more per gram of compound — but per absorbed dose, often cheaper

When two products are within 50% on per-mg price, the chelated form is almost always the better deal.