Iron is a mineral that is an integral part of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body.
Why do we need iron
Iron is a component of hemoglobin, participates in the formation of lymphocytes and red blood cells, removes carbon dioxide during respiration and delivers oxygen to tissues.
Iron is also part of immune enzymes and helps the thyroid gland.
Without iron, many processes in the body are impossible, including energy metabolism and DNA repair.
Iron helps maintain the immune system in good shape, allowing the body to fight infection, and takes part in tissue growth.
Lack of iron can cause a dangerous disease - iron deficiency anemia.
What does iron deficiency look like
Signs of iron deficiency may include increased irritability, apathy, fatigue, and poor appetite.
Also, with a lack of iron, pallor of the skin, tongue, and palms is observed; dry and brittle nails and hair.
How to quickly replenish iron in the body
A great way to increase your iron intake is to include iron-rich foods in your diet.
This can include lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, kale, broccoli, nuts and seeds.
