Iron

At some point you have probably heard about the importance of iron or maybe know someone who is taking it in supplementation.  It is a well-known trace mineral with a long history and is found in every cell of the body and almost all if it combines with protein.  One of the most important function of IRON is its role in the production of HEMOGLOBIN and MYOGLOBIN (the form found in muscles tissues) and the oxygenation of red blood cells. 
Iron is the mineral found in the LARGEST amounts in the blood and is essential for many enzymes including CATALASE (an iron containing enzyme that is found through out the body and seems designed to prevents hydrogen peroxide from building up inside the cells because it converts hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water) and is important for growth. 
It is also required for a healthy immune system and for energy production
Deficiencies are extremely common and caused by insufficient intake but may also be the result of:

• Intestinal bleeding
• Diet high in phosphorus
• Poor digestion
• Long-term illness
• Ulcers
• Prolonged use of antacids
• Excessive coffee or tea consumption, and more.
• Deficiency symptoms include:
• Anemia
• Brittle hair
• Difficulty swallowing
• Digestive disturbances
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Fragile bones
• Hair loss
• Inflammation of the tissues of the mouth
• Nails that are spoon-shaped or have ridges running lengthwise
• Nervousness
• Obesity
• Pallor
• Slowed mental reaction

 
***Because iron is stored in the body, excessive iron intake can also cause problems and supplementation should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional*** 

The build up of iron in the tissues has been associated with a rare disease known as HEMOCHROMATOSIS.  Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disorder of iron metabolism that is found mostly in med and post-menopausal woman. (premenopausal women have an advantage because of their menstrual cycle) Excessive absorption of IRON from both food and supplements can lead to:

• Bronze skin pigmentation
• Arthritis
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Diabetes
• Heart disorders

Sources of iron:

• Eggs
• Fish
• Liver
• Meat
• Poultry
• Leafy greens
• Whole grains
• Avocado
• Beets
• Blackstrap molasses
• Brewer’s yeast
• Dates
• Kidney and lima beans
• Lentils
• Peaches
• Pears
• Dried prunes
• Pumpkin
• Raisins
• Rice
• Wheat bran
• Sesame

There are two different forms of iron: HEME and NON-HEME sources.  HEME- comes from animal sources and are most absorbable.  NON-HEME come from plant sources of iron.

**Note: this post is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any illnesses. It is for informational purposes only.  Always read and follow the labels when taking supplements and always consult a healthcare professional.