Iron is an essential mineral in the human body. This mineral is required in high amounts in the blood cells where it is responsible for transporting oxygen to the various parts of the body. Lack of iron n the body leads to a health condition known as anemia. Enough Iron can be obtained from diets especially the green vegetables. This element can also be obtained from supplements.
There are various reasons why you might need to take the iron supplements. They include; if you are on certain medications, frequent exercises or being or the female gender. This mineral is very crucial to your health. Iron is contained in all the living cells, but it is found in abundance in the red blood cells. Iron is also used in creating energy from the various nutrients. It is also used in the transmission of impulses by the nervous system. Iron can be stored in the body if the body has enough amounts.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiencies?
The deficiency of iron occurs when the blood cells do not have enough iron. This affects the ability of the red blood cells to transport oxygen. This means that the body tissues and cells can no longer obtai
n enough oxygen. These symptoms include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
It is estimated that over five million people in the United States have anemia most of which is caused by the deficiency of iron. Other common causes of anemia include following cancer affecting the digestive tract system, peptic ulcer disease, menstruation, blood loss from blood donation or trauma and gastro intestinal bleeding.
When do you need the iron supplements?
When you are pregnant
Pregnant women are recommended to consume about eighteen mg of iron on a daily basis. Pregnant women need more iron. Their daily iron’s dietary allowance is about 27 mg .you are advised to consult a medical doctor if you are to take the iron supplements alongside other prenatal vitamins.
When you have an infant
Young babies are known to sto
re the excess iron obtained from their mother when they were still in the womb. This iron can be used by the babies until they attain the age of six months. This means that you will be required to feed your child with iron-fortified foods after the age of six months. However, you should consult a pediatrician before you start feeding the infant with iron supplements.
When you menstruate
A lot of blood is lost during menstruation thereby depleting the iron stores. This is the main reason why there are more cases of anemia in women than in men.
