Download Chelated vs Colloidal

Dear Chris:
It is common believe that chelated minerals has better bioavailability. A chelated mineral is one
chemically attached to another substance, such as an amino acid or organic acid carrier, called a
chelator. The chelator can be a natural or synthetic substance. Chelated minerals are believed to mimic
the natural mineral chelates that form during the digestion process. The absorption of the mineral may be
enhanced in some cases by chelation. It helps carry the mineral from the digestive tract into the blood
and greatly increases the absorption of the mineral. Chromium picolinate is a good example of a mineral
whose absorption is improved by chelation. Also, chelated minerals, such as zinc gluconate, may cause
less stomach upset and constipation that other mineral forms, such as zinc sulfate, when taken in large
amounts.
Reference of Interests:
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Nutritional selenium supplements: product types, quality, and safety. J Am Coll Nutr. 2001
Feb;20(1):1-4
Calcium supplementation. J Am Acad Nurse Pract. 1997 Apr;9(4):187-92.
A "colloid" is a substance dispersed in particle size large enough to prevent or delay passage through a
semipermeable membrane, but small enough to remain in suspension in a liquid or gas. Particles may be
electrically charged and have stabilising agents added to prevent precipitation. Colloidal minerals are
basically clays dispersed in water. Such products differ greatly. Some contain aluminium or toxic
minerals, others are high in sodium. Some do not contain detectable amounts of minerals listed on their
labels. Finally, there is no evidence that colloidal minerals are more bioavailable than those found in other
forms. There is however ongoing safety concern relating to supplemental use of colloidal mineral
Regards;
Sheila Zhou
Associate Scientist
USANA ANZ Technical Services
USANA Health Science
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