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What is iron in the body?

Published in Mineral in the body 1 min read

Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs for growth and development. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, particularly in the production of red blood cells.

Your body uses iron to create hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Iron is also used to make myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles.

Iron is also involved in:

  • Immune system function: Iron helps white blood cells fight infections.
  • Hormone production: Iron is essential for the production of certain hormones.
  • Energy production: Iron helps the body use energy from food.

Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition where the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. This can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

Iron overload can also be harmful, and can lead to serious damage to the body, especially the liver.