This important mineral can have some impressive health benefits.
Are you getting enough?
Iron is a mineral that is crucial for optimal health and well-being.
Additionally, individuals may experience difficulty concentrating, irritability, pale skin, shortness of breath and frequent headaches.
The good news is that consuming sufficient iron can keep you strong, energized and healthy.
Keep reading to learn what happens to your body when you consume iron regularly.
Why Do We Need Iron?
Iron needs vary depending on your age, sex and life stage.
Most healthy adult females require 18 milligrams of iron per day, while most males need 8 mg daily.
Here are some of the main health benefits of consuming iron regularly.
This can often leave us feeling tired and weak.
So, it is vital for the proper functioning of the immune system.
Additionally, newborns with iron deficiency may exhibit poorer cognitive abilities.
Mood Support
While many factors can affect mood, iron status may have a surprising impact.
This is especially critical for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegans and vegetarians.
As a result, it is readily absorbed and utilized by the body.
On the other hand, nonheme iron is found in plant foods like beans, lentils and spinach.
Types of Iron Deficiency
There are three main types of iron deficiency.
This can impair oxygen transport throughout the body.
Finally, there is functional iron deficiency, where iron availability is insufficient despite normal iron storage levels.
Individuals may also experience shortness of breath, dizziness or cold hands and feet.
In severe cases, individuals might suffer from headaches, chest pain or even an increased heart rate.
If these indicate you have low iron levels, you may require a supplement.
But dont go it alone.
Usually, eating a wide variety of iron-rich foods can provide the iron most people need.
Some forms of iron tend to be better tolerated than others, potentially leading to fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
There is no direct evidence that iron pills cause weight gain.
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