Author: Victoria Aly
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
Iron is needed to stimulate the activity of many enzymes in the human body. Participates in the process of growth of the body and the formation of energy, maintains the normal state of the immune system.
The most important importance of iron in the body is the formation of hemoglobin and myoglobin (this is a form of hemoglobin that is present in muscle tissue), as well as providing erythrocytes with oxygen.
Iron is needed to stimulate the activity of many enzymes in the human body. Participates in the process of growth of the body and the formation of energy, maintains the normal state of the immune system.
Iron deficiency is most common in disorders of absorption and absorption. It can also be the result of bleeding in the intestines, ulcers, excessive blood loss during menstruation, as well as due to high phosphorus, indigestion, prolonged illness.
Iron deficiency occurs when taking antacids, as well as excessive consumption of coffee and tea.
Sometimes iron deficiency is associated with the subsequent development of anemia due to a lack of vitamins B6 and B12.
Excessive physical activity and heavy sweating increase the excretion of iron from the body.
Symptoms of iron deficiency are anemia, premature graying of the hair, difficulty swallowing, hair loss, inflammatory processes in the oral cavity.
A specific feature is the nails to acquire the shape of blades.
There is also nervousness, pallor, delayed mental activity.
As iron is deposited in the body, its excessive intake is undesirable.
Excess iron in tissues and organs increases the formation of free radicals and increases the body's need for vitamin E.
Higher amounts of iron cause the development of cardiovascular disease and malignant tumors.
The deposition of iron in the tissues leads to hemochromatosis. Hereditary disorders of iron metabolism are associated with its excessive amount. Bronze pigmentation of the skin may occur. Cirrhosis and diabetes mellitus may develop.
anemia, hair loss and breakage, layering of nails, pale face, difficulty swallowing, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, indigestion, dizziness, fatigue, nervousness, delayed reflexes, brittle bones.
Iron as a drug is usually prescribed to children in a period of intensive growth, pregnant and lactating women, girls and young women with heavy menstruation, athletes.
Iron can be obtained from the following foods: eggs, fish, liver, red meat, green leafy vegetables.
Also found in: almonds, avocados, beets, peaches, pears, pumpkin, nettles, paprika, chicory, parsley, rose hips, raspberry leaves, chamomile and more.