Iron: it may be minor but it's still important - May 5, 2011

I think everyone has heard about iron deficiency or anemia. I didn't really know what role iron plays in our bodies and why a deficiency is a negative thing. So I'll just share a little information with you about it. Iron is considered a minor trace mineral, which means that we require less than 100 milligrams a day. The recommended allowance for iron in an adult male (19-50) is 8mg, for women in the same age group it's 18mg.  Even though our bodies don't require a large amount of iron daily here is why it's important to have it: iron participates in functions like metabolism, DNA synthesis, growth, healing, immune function and reproduction. Iron is also found in the blood in two proteins that transport oxygen. So if you lack the proper amounts of iron, your blood will not be moving oxygen properly. Iron is shown to be an important contributor to athletic performance, as it's difficult to run a marathon when your muscles are getting inadequate oxygen.

Because iron helps transport oxygen in blood a major sign of iron deficiency is fatigue. If your muscles aren't getting enough oxygen you will be very tired. People most likely to watch for iron deficiency are long distance runners, women with heavy menstruation or who have just had a baby and people who frequently donate blood.  Some other symptoms that are attributed to iron deficiency are pallor (pale skin), brittle or grooved nails, hair loss, irritability and weakness. The good news is that iron is easily found in most foods so it's not difficult to make sure you are getting your daily intake of iron. Most people will not need an iron supplement because it is also important not to have too high an iron intake. Just make a burger or some tuna salad, have some eggs with the yolk or eat some dried fruit. All of these things contain iron and will easily get you to your suggested iron allowance each day. Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy!

I hope everyone is having a great week! Take care and don't forget to call and RSVP for the talk on May 17th at 6:30!

Ciao!

Karla H.

Roscoe Chiropractic Centre