Iron

Food containing natural iron. Fe: Liver, avocado, broccoli, spinach, parsley, beans, nuts, on a black stone background. Top view.

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in the body. It is an important component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is also involved in the production of myoglobin, a protein that stores oxygen in muscle tissue. Iron is absorbed from the diet and transported in the blood bound to a protein called transferrin. Iron is stored in the body in the form of ferritin, primarily in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow.

When the body needs more iron, it can release ferritin into the blood. Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency worldwide, and can lead to anemia, fatigue, weakness, and impaired immune function. Iron supplementation may be recommended for individuals with iron deficiency, although it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It is important to note that excessive iron intake can be harmful, and may lead to iron overload, which can damage organs such as the liver and heart.