(ThyBlackMan.com) Iron is something we know the body needs, but it is often not viewed as a nutrient. Many tend to focus on iron once they are found to be anemic, or when the body begins to function in a very sluggish way and other ailments are ruled out. Iron is a strong focus in babies, and in pregnant women however, it is important to know many women struggle with some level of iron deficiency at different points in their life. Though we understand that iron is import many are often unclear as to what the function of iron is in the body.
Understanding the purpose of iron can helps be more conscious of making sure we are intaking an adequate amount to stay healthy. “”The major reason we need it is that it helps to transport oxygen throughout the body,” says Paul Thomas, EdD, RD, a scientific consultant to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.”
One of the primary symptoms of iron deficiency is fatigue. If one isn’t careful they could be attributing their fatigue to other causes when a lack of iron is the underlying issue. Since iron is responsible for assisting the oxygen movement in the body a lack thereof can even affect the health of our organs. The brain needs oxygen to function properly so not having enough iron to move the oxygen can become a dangerous situation. “Without healthy red blood cells, your body can’t get enough oxygen. ”
If you’re not getting sufficient oxygen in the body, you’re going to become fatigued,” Thomas says. That exhaustion can affect everything from your brain function to your immune system’s ability to fight off infections. If you’re pregnant, severe iron deficiency may increase your baby’s risk of being born too early, or smaller than normal.” Iron is also helpful in the development of healthy skin, hair and nails.
If you are lacking in iron you may get what you need in your food or with an iron supplement. There are two forms of iron that we get from food: heme and non-heme iron. Heme iron comes from food that contained hemoglobin such as read meat, poultry and seafood. This is the iron that the body absorbs best. For the most part, non-heme iron is plant based. This iron can be gained through eating adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables rich in iron. If you have decided to become vegan you may need an iron supplement to work in conjunction with the non-heme iron you intake to meet your iron needs.
Iron is an essential mineral that the body can not function properly without. If you are battling with fatigue and nothing you are doing is helping your energy levels consider speaking with your doctor to rule out anemia. Women must always be extremely mindful of their iron level as they loose blood monthly, and it is vital when pregnant. Iron is not a mineral that you want to overuse as it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. If treated the symptoms tend to subside within 24hours. However, sever overdosing of iron can cause shock and if untreated death. Though iron is a necessity be sure to take the proper doses.
Staff Writer; Christian Starr
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