Description
Iron is a trace mineral the body uses to make haemoglobin, a component of red blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the body’s tissues It also supports key enzymes involved in energy production and metabolism .
Iron deficiency is common in vegetarians, menstruating women, pregnancy, infants and the elderly. Iron deficiency is also commonly known as anaemia. Anaemia develops when the blood becomes deficient in red blood cells and haemoglobin.
Iron is an essential mineral in the production of red blood cells and haemoglobin. The first signs of anaemia are pallor, weakness and a tendency to become fatigued easily. Other symptoms of iron deficiency include cognitive impairment, developmental delay and hair loss. Although these are all signs consistent with anaemia, people should have their blood iron levels checked before taking iron supplements.
Iron, if taken in high doses, may become toxic in the body. It may exhibit free radical activity and damage tissues and organs. It may also store in organs, interfering with their normal function.
Natural sources of iron include liver, meat, poultry and fish. Plant sources include dried beans, vegetables, nuts and cereals.