IRON: WHAT IS IT FOR?

Understanding Ferrous and Ferric Forms of Iron and How to Absorb it Better

Iron is an important mineral for good health. It helps to keep our blood healthy and is needed for making energy, for our immune system, and for some important enzymes. There are two types of iron: ferrous and ferric.

Iron that we get from food is usually in the ferric form. But our body absorbs ferrous iron better. Ferric iron needs to be made soluble to be absorbed, and this happens in the stomach. Food can affect iron absorption too. Some foods help iron to be absorbed better, while others can stop this.

It’s a good idea to eat a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods like meat, lentils, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin C can also help our body absorb iron better. By making sure we have enough iron in our body, we can stay healthy and avoid problems like tiredness and weakness.

WHY IS IRON ESSENTIAL FOR OUR BODY?

COGNITIVE FUNCTION

It is essential for brain function as it produces neurotransmitters and develops myelin. It also regulates body temperature and maintains the immune system to protect against infections that affect brain function.

ENERGY

Improves overall energy levels: Iron is needed for the production of energy in the body, and without enough iron, you may feel fatigued and have low energy levels.

BLOOD CELLS

Iron is necessary for producing enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues.

PREGNANCY

Necessary for pregnancy: Iron is important during pregnancy to support the growth and development of the fetus and maintain the health of the mother

IMMUNITY

Iron helps in the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help regulate our immune responses and protect against pathogens.

SYMPTOMS OF IRON DEFICIENCY/ TOXICITY

SWALLOWING

When we don’t have enough iron in our bodies, it can lead to a condition known as anemia, which can make it difficult to swallow properly. This can happen because the muscles in the throat and esophagus become weak and don’t function properly, making it harder to move food and liquids down into the stomach.

HAIR TEXTURE

A deficiency can cause your hair follicles to become weak and brittle. That means that even simple combing and brushing can pull hair strands out of your scalp. This can lead to hair loss and an overall thinning of the hair. A deficiency can lead to a decrease in the growth rate of your hair. Your hair will take longer to recover from damage.

WEIGHT

Iron is essential for metabolism, the process by which your body turns food into energy. Without enough iron, your metabolism slows down, and your body is unable to burn calories efficiently. This can result in weight gain, especially around the belly area.

ANEMIA

One of the most important functions of iron is its role in the production of red blood cells. Without enough iron, our body may not produce enough red blood cells, leading to a condition called anemia.

DIZZY

The reason iron is important for preventing dizziness is that it plays a crucial role in our body’s ability to transport oxygen to the brain. When our body does not have enough iron, there is reduced oxygen supply to the brain, which can lead to dizziness.

LOWERED IMMUNITY

Iron deficiency affects the production of immune cells directly, making it challenging for the body to respond effectively to infections. The body also requires iron to produce antibodies that fight off infections and diseases. Without adequate iron stores, our immune system cannot produce enough antibodies to protect us from infections. As a result, we become more susceptible to various infections, including respiratory infections, skin infections, and other chronic diseases.

DIGESTIVE ISSUES

Iron deficiency can reduce stomach acid production, hinder digestion, cause discomfort, and may lead to constipation due to low hemoglobin levels.

ANXIETY

Iron is essential for the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin, which play a crucial role in regulating mood and anxiety levels. When the body lacks sufficient iron, it can lead to decreased neurotransmitter levels, which can lead to anxiety and depression.

SYMPTOMS OF IRON TOXICITY

HEART

Studies have found that high levels of iron in the body have been linked to heart disease and cancer. When there is too much iron in the blood, it can cause oxidative stress which can lead to cellular damage. This can increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. Iron has also been found to promote the growth of cancer cells.

LIVER DISEASE

A recent study found that high levels of iron in the blood contribute to the development of heart disease. Iron can cause oxidative stress in the body by increasing the production of free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to inflammation, a key factor in the development of heart disease.