Iron is a mineral that will help for the normal functions of hemoglobin--a protein required to transport oxygen within the blood. It plays an important role in different body processes. A deficiency of iron in the blood can lead to serious health issues, including iron deficiency known as anemia. Let us know the importance of iron in our body as we read this article.
Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs for growth and development. Your body uses iron to create hemoglobin and myoglobin which is a protein that gives oxygen to muscles. Your body needs iron to create a few hormones. There are two groups of dietary iron and these are the heme and non-heme. Animal sources including meat and fish contain heme iron. It is easier to retain this kind of iron in the body. Non-heme iron can be found in plants which requires different processes to retain it in the body. Plant-based sources of iron include beans, nuts, soy, leafy green vegetables and whole grains. The bioavailability of heme iron from natural sources can be up to 40% while non-heme iron sources are available from 2-20 percent only. For this reason, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for veggie lovers is 1.8 times higher than for those who eat meat to boost the iron levels. Taking iron supplements can help to increase iron levels as well as to prevent anemia.
Treatment for Anemia. Iron is effective treatment for anemia. It is widely known that this ailment is one of the most common dietary deficiencies in the world. Symptoms of anemia include weariness, shortness of breath, quick heart rate and weakness. Iron deficiency can lead to arrhythmias, heart mumble, enlarged heart, and heart failure. It can also cause fibromyalgia and other health problems. For pregnant women, iron deficiency can lead to preterm labor and low birth weight for newborn babies. Iron deficiency among children can also result to serious health problems.
While the deficiency of iron can be effectively managed with iron supplements, one must take note that side effects may be manifested aside from its rusty taste. Stomachache is the most common side effects of iron supplements. It can also lead to constipation and taking high amounts of iron can result to sickness, vomiting, and stomach problem. There are exceptionally uncommon cases of iron overdose which resulted to seizure, coma, and death. These are the reason why one should follow the dosage recommended for a certain age or reproductive status thus it is highly recommended to consult your doctor before taking any food supplements.
NO II Joanna Marie E. Baltazar, RND
References:
- What Is Iron?
https://www.verywellhealth.com/iron-supplements-benefits-4178814
- Everything you need to know about iron
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/287228
- The Importance of Iron
