Iron
Iron Benefits
Supports a Healthy Pregnancy
To provide for the needs of a growing fetus, the bodies of the mothers enhance iron absorption from the blood. This increased absorption is attributed to extremely high blood volume and aggravated production of red blood cells during pregnancy. Thus, iron is prescribed to expecting mothers so that their pregnancy goes smoothly, and the iron levels are maintained.
A deficiency of iron during pregnancy can prove to be very dangerous as it can lead to a higher risk of premature birth.[r183] Also, low levels of iron during pregnancy might result in impaired cognition or behavioral and developmental issues in infants. Moreover, as iron also plays a crucial part in strengthening the immune system, its deficiency in expecting mothers might lead to several infections.
Combats Fatigue and Maintains Energy
One of the most critical roles of iron is to carry blood to various parts of our body, including the brain and muscles. This supply of oxygen to the brain and muscles is essential for carrying out all the physical and mental functions performed by our bodies daily. Thus, if the iron levels drop, the supply of oxygen is compromised to numerous body parts. This results in a lack of focus, extreme fatigue, irritability, and reduced stamina. Iron consumption helps get rid of fatigue and feelings of tiredness or exhaustion.[r182]
Aids Muscle Strength Development
When iron supplies oxygen to our muscles, it helps in maintaining the function of muscle contraction. This function of our muscles is critical for maintaining our physical dexterity, and thus depletion of iron in the blood results in reduced elasticity of muscles. Research indicates that weakened muscles are one of the top symptoms of low iron levels.[r181] This is one of the reasons why iron is essential for athletes since they burn more energy and rely on highly maintained muscle mass.
Powers The Immune System
Daily Intake For Iron
Healthy Foods High In Iron
- All food nutrient profiles are based on a weight of 100 grams.
- * RDI values are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day (Female, Age 19-30).
- All foods are vegetarian.
Sources
- r184. Review on iron and its importance for human health
- r183. Pregnancy and birth: Do all pregnant women need to take iron supplements?
- r182. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
- r181. The influence of iron deficiency on the functioning of skeletal muscles: experimental evidence and clinical implications
- r180. The role of iron in the immune response to bacterial infection
- r179. Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Common and Curable Disease