Iron

You have probably heard about the importance of having iron in our diets. Did you know that iron plays numerous roles in our bodies? Iron plays a vital role in oxygen transport and storage in our bodies. Hemoglobin, a protein found in our red blood cells, contains about two thirds of our body’s iron. Hemoglobin quickly obtains oxygen from the lungs and then releases the oxygen throughout the body as needed as it travels through the tissues. Any oxygen not being used right away is stored in a muscle protein named myoglobin. In addition to ensuring that our bodies receive enough oxygen, iron plays important roles in immune functions, reproduction, and body growth.

Did you know that iron is the most common nutrient deficiency in the United States? Iron deficiency can be especially common in infants, women, blood donors, vegetarians, and people with certain diseases or conditions. Some iron deficiency symptoms include tiredness, weakness, lack of concentration, and GI upset. Because an iron deficient body cannot receive enough oxygen, the body cannot function at its best. If you believe you are iron deficient, talk with your medical professional about your iron levels and how to reconcile them if necessary.

What foods do you think about consuming when you are considering your iron levels? While some people may default to meat, there is iron in a variety of foods. Besides meat, there is iron in some breakfast cereals, spinach, beans, tofu, and other foods. Iron from animal sources is more readily absorbed than iron from plant sources. What iron rich foods do you like to eat? Do you have to take iron supplements?