Role of iron in the human body

Iron is an essential mineral for the human body.
It is required for the production of red blood cells (a process known as haematopoiesis) and is also a major part of haemoglobin (that is the pigment of the red blood cells). Haemogobin transports oxygen from the lungs via the arteries to all cells throughout the body and picks up carbon dioxide via the veins on its way back (carbon dioxide is produced during metabolism).

Iron is also involved in the conversion of blood sugar to energy and the production of enzymes which play a vital role in the human body for example: the production of new cells, amino acids, hormones and neurotransmitters – all crucial properties of a healthy body. The immune system is dependent on iron for its efficient functioning. Physical and mental growth require a good source of iron, particularly in childhood and pregnancy.

Iron is lost by the body through a variety of ways including urination, defecation, sweating, and exfoliating old skin cells. Bleeding contributes to further loss of iron which is why women have a higher demand for iron than men.