Why Is Iron So Important?

Iron is a mineral that’s essential for many important body functions including:

• Oxygen transport - Iron is necessary for the formation of two molecules: hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to the body’s tissues; and myoglobin, which is involved in the transport and short‐term storage of oxygen in muscle cells.

• The production of energy - Iron is needed for the activation of a key enzyme (aconitase) involved in energy production from carbohydrate and fat metabolism.

• Brain and nerve function - Iron is an essential co-factor in the synthesis of brain chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin.

• Immunity - Sufficient iron is required for several immune functions

When we don’t get enough iron, many parts of our bodies will be affected and a number of associated signs and symptoms may include:

• Fatigue

• Irritability

• Headaches

• Reduced endurance capacity during exercise

• Decreased general health and well-being

• Difficulty maintaining a normal body temperature in a cold environment

• Pale mouth and nail bed

• Brittle hair

• Impaired mental function

• Poor immune defences

Some people are at higher risk of iron deficiency include:

• Adolescents — As they have increased iron requirements due to rapid growth.

• Women who have heavy periods — As they lose quite amount of iron regularly.

• Women who are pregnant — As they have increased iron requirements due to rapidly expanded blood volumes and the growth of the fetus.

• Vegetarians and vegans — As iron from plants is less efficiently absorbed than that from animal sources.