Iron - Page 2

Iron supplements are mineral or nutritional supplements that provide an iron source. Iron is an essential mineral your body needs for many functions, including red blood cell production, which is crucial for oxygen transport throughout the body.

Iron is also involved in iron metabolism and hemoglobin support. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

There are two main types of iron:

• Heme iron: Found in animal products like meat, poultry, and fish. This type of iron is more easily absorbed by the body.
• Non-heme iron: Found in plant-based foods like beans, lentils, tofu, and dark leafy greens. This type of iron is less absorbed by the body.

Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency, especially among women, children, and vegetarians. Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

Iron supplements can help prevent or treat iron deficiency, and come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. The amount of iron content in a supplement can vary, so it is important to read the label carefully.

Here are some other important things to know about iron supplements:

• Iron absorption: Iron bioavailability is the amount of iron that your body can absorb and use. Vitamin C can help improve iron absorption.
• Iron absorption enhancers: Some iron supplements contain iron absorption enhancers, such as vitamin C or citric acid, to help improve iron absorption.
• Iron fortification: Some foods are iron fortified, meaning that iron has been added to them. This can be a good way to increase your iron intake.
• Iron supplementation: Iron supplementation with high doses of iron can be dangerous, so it is important to only take iron supplements under the supervision of a doctor.