Iron

Iron is one of the minerals most present in the human organism, forming part of the cellular structures of our body. It is classified as a micromineral, so the doses to be consumed are usually lower than those of other minerals found in the group of macrominerals. Taking into account its characteristics, functions and contributions to our health, it is included among the essential minerals for the normal functioning of the processes and functions that occur within our body. Thanks to iron, our body is able to produce hemoglobin, so its deficiency is highly detrimental to our health.

Considering the importance of this mineral, we will be dedicating this guide to learn more about its functions in relation to our health. Likewise, we will be reviewing the recommended amounts of this nutrient for our body, the sources from which we can acquire it and the harm to our health of consuming it in excess.

General benefits of iron

Iron is undoubtedly one of the most popular and consumed minerals worldwide. This nutrient owes its popularity, above all, to its important role in the production of proteins such as hemoglobin and myoglobin. Thanks to these proteins, the processes of oxygen transportation inside our body are efficiently completed, so that it can be used in the different metabolic reactions that occur in our body.

Although the human body has the capacity to store certain levels of iron, once iron deficiency occurs, we can suffer consequences such as anemia, weight loss, respiratory problems, acute headaches, decay, fatigue, among others.

How to obtain iron?

Iron is a mineral easily acquired through the intake of an adequate diet, rich and balanced in nutrients. Fortunately, iron can be found in a wide range of foods, both of vegetable and animal origin. Among the foods that have a high iron content in their composition are: red meat, tuna, liver, oysters, salmon, iron-fortified cereals, eggs, some legumes, seafood, soy products, beans, nuts such as walnuts or almonds, broccoli, spinach, wheat, oats, brown rice, among many others.

Although supplements of this mineral are very common in the market, it is valid to remember that as a micromineral, you do not need large amounts of it. Thus, the food source is the best way to meet the daily requirements of this nutrient in your body.

Adequate iron intake

The adverse effects of iron intake on our body are rare, but not non-existent. Many children may experience a kind of i