The benefits of iron for the body mainly include its role in providing vital oxygen to various organs and systems, through its participation in the formation of red blood cells .
The benefits of this element are also associated with the proper development of the human body and maintaining health. Iron is a valuable compound for metabolism and we need it for the formation of red blood cells.
The body can store about 25% of it for future use, especially in cases where the diet is poor in the element.
A deficiency of iron has its characteristic symptoms, including severe fatigue , weakness and other ailments. People who lack the element cannot perform their normal functions in an optimal way.
Women and children need more iron than men, so anemia affects them more severely. Severe deficiency can lead to progressive skin diseases that can also damage the nails .
Enzymatic processes that require iron cannot occur, as a result of which the metabolism slows down and even stops. Anemia is considered to be the most common sign of iron deficiency.
Food sources of iron
The element is found in both vegetarian and meat sources, where it is classified as heme- and non-heme iron, respectively. Foods that belong to vegetarian sources are legumes , soy, whole grains, green vegetables, grains, bread, turnips and dried fruits.
It can also be found in eggs, fish, beef fillets, animal liver , with the largest amounts in goose, followed by pork and chicken.
The valuable element can be obtained by taking food supplements.