Amino Acid Chelates Flashcards
(8 cards)
What is an amino acid chelate?
A mineral atom bound covalently to two or more amino acids in the same molecule, with the chelator guiding mineral absorption.
How do amino acid chelates improve mineral absorption?
They bypass competitive mineral absorption by disguising minerals as proteins, allowing efficient peptide absorption in the small intestine.
Name some common amino acids used as chelators in mineral supplements.
Aspartic acid, methionine, monomethionine, lysine, glycine.
What are some organic acids used as mineral chelators?
Acetic acid, citric acid, orotic acid, gluconic acid, fumaric acid, picolinic acid.
Which minerals are commonly available in chelated forms?
Calcium, zinc, iron, copper, magnesium, potassium, cobalt, chromium, molybdenum.
What is one potential drawback of amino acid chelates?
They may be too tightly bonded, making it difficult to release the mineral if cellular energy is low.
Why might amino acid chelates sometimes require combination with other mineral forms?
Because the chelates can be large molecules limiting the dosage in capsules.
What is a practical limitation of amino acid chelate supplements?
They can be expensive, limiting accessibility for some clients.
