Description:
The most important function of iron in the body is, the production
of hemoglobin, and the oxygenation of red blood cells. Iron is found
in the largest amounts in the blood. It is also important for a
healthy immune system, and for energy production. Iron deficiency
is most often caused by insufficient intake. In some cases iron
deficiency can be due to low stomach acid, internal bleeding, excessive
menstrual bleeding, and ulcers. In many cases of anemia the problem
lies with B6, folic acid, or B-12 levels. Iron deficiency symptoms
are: anemia, brittle hair, difficulty swallowing, digestive problems,
dizziness, fragile bones, hair loss, pale skin color, and slowed
mental reactions. Too much iron can lead to increased free radical
levels, heart disease, cirrhosis of the liver, and heart disorders.
Complimentary Nutrients:
Calcium, cobalt, vitamins B12, folic acid, C, copper, and phosphorus.
Antagonists:
Excessive intake of zinc or copper, coffee. excessive phosphorus,
tea, and manganese.
Health Benefits:
Growth in children, blood, skin, teeth, bones. nails, hemoglobin
production, and stress and disease resistance.
Therapeutic Uses:
Menstrual problems, impaired absorption, alcoholism, blood loss,
anemia, and colitis.
Vitamin Therapies should be done with the supervision of a qualified
health care professional. In the panel on the left, under ailments
you can find more information about treatments for some of these
conditions. You can also locate therapeutic information on this
site by using the search engine - click on 'Search' in the panel
on your left - and entering words relating to the ailment you are
interested in.
Deficiency Indicators:
Sore or inflamed tongue, breathing difficulties, brittle nails,
iron deficiency anemia - pale skin/fatigue, and constipation.
Dosage:
| RDA |
Optimal Health |
Therapeutic Amounts |
| 10 mg (males), 18 mg (females) |
18 mg |
32 mg |
RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) are dosages developed by the
FDA. These amounts are designed to prevent deficiency symptoms.
For optimal health it is necessary to take a larger dose. The optimal
health amounts are for adults and children weighing over 100 lbs.
Children under the age of six should be given nutritional formulas
designed specifically for young children. The therapeutic amounts
to treat special conditions are usually much higher, and should
not be taken without the supervision of a qualified health care
professional.
Sources:
Iron is found in: wheat germ, desiccated liver, eggs, fish, liver,
meat, organ meats, poultry, green leafy vegetables, whole grains,
almonds, beets, blackstrap molasses, dates, dulse, kelp, lima beans,
lentils, millet, peaches, pears, dried prunes, pumpkin, raisins,
brown rice, and soy beans. Here are some examples.
| Food |
Amount |
MG |
| beef liver |
1/4 lb. |
200 |
| shredded wheat |
1 biscuit |
30 |
Comments:
There must be sufficient hydrochloric acid (HCL) in the stomach
in order to absorb iron properly. Antacids will severely interfere
with iron absorption. Copper, manganese, molybdenum, vitamin A,
and the B-complex vitamins are also needed for complete iron absorption.
Taking vitamin c with meals increases iron absorption by as much
as 30%. Do not take iron supplements without the guidance of a health
care professional.
