Did you know that every adult contains enough iron to make a couple of nails? That's 2.5-4.5 grams. It may not seem like much, but from the perspective of biochemistry and dietetics, it is an extremely important microelement, vital for absolutely everyone.
Why is iron needed?
As a microelement, iron in the body affects various biochemical processes. Its impact on health should be studied in each specific aspect of life activity.
- Iron – the foundation of blood. Iron is the main microelement involved in both the creation of human blood and its direct functioning. Iron ensures the capture of oxygen and its transportation in the body. And it is because of iron that blood has its characteristic taste, colour, and smell.
- Cholesterol breakdown. Another crucial process in which iron is necessary is the breakdown of cholesterol. A lack of iron can lead to weight gain, shortness of breath, and generally reduces the effectiveness of any diets or workouts.
How to eliminate iron deficiency?
The modern human diet usually does not cover all the body's needs for iron. According to the UN, iron deficiency is present in more than 60% of the world's population – and it is characteristic not only of poor countries but also of states with a very high standard of living. However, each person can independently resolve this issue with the following recommendations:
- Diet adjustment. Increasing the share of red meat in the diet, mineral waters, eggs, and greens can increase the levels of iron in the body. However, it is not advisable to adjust your diet on your own – by eliminating iron deficiency, you risk losing other essential microelements.
- Dietary supplements. Complexes of vitamins and microelements can help eliminate iron deficiency without disrupting the usual lifestyle and diet. But, as with diet adjustment, it is better to prescribe them after consulting a dietitian. The most well-known source of iron can be called hematogen.
It should also be remembered that everyone has their own personal norms of iron consumption – even people with the same weight may require different amounts. But don't worry – the amount of iron in the body can be diagnosed with a general blood test, and the necessary indicators can be normalised within a few months.
Overall, the most common consequence of iron deficiency is anaemia. Numbness of the limbs, weakness, fatigue, fainting, and pale skin are just the most well-known symptoms of this disease. Which could easily be prevented without medical intervention.
In addition, even without the bright symptoms of anaemia, iron deficiency in the body significantly reduces the effectiveness of any diets and workouts.
Is excess iron dangerous?
Excess iron in the body can also pose a health risk. However, it occurs extremely rarely. Usually, excess iron is diagnosed in people with internal organ diseases and metabolic disorders. Another cause of excess iron may be extremely hard and iron-rich water consumed over a very long time. In case of suspected excess iron, a mandatory general blood test and medical examination are necessary – self-treatment in this case is definitely not advisable. Excess iron leads to arthrosis, cancer, and the formation of blood clots.
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