MANAGING YOUR Iron INTAKE…
What is Iron?
Iron is a mineral which the body uses to make haemoglobin, myoglobin, cytochromes and enzymes.
Two thirds of the body’s Iron is found in haemoglobin – a protein present in red blood cells, which allows the transportation of oxygen around the body.
A quarter of the body’s Iron is found stored as ferritin or haemosiderin in the liver and/or other tissues.
Why is it important to have sufficient Iron?
Transportation of oxygen
Maintaining a healthy immune system
Regulating energy metabolism
How much Iron do we need?
IMPORTANT NOTE: Pregnant women require more Iron, being 27mg/day (the upper level of intake being 45mg/day).
Low iron can lead to…
Deficiency – when the body has low levels of Iron.
Anaemia – a condition where the body has low levels of healthy red blood cells.
Signs of Iron deficiency can include:
Fatigue
Pale skin
Dizziness
Headaches
Always feeling cold - especially having cold extremities (hands, fingers, feet and toes)
Hair loss
Weak nails
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you experience any of these symptoms and/or have Iron levels below 20 (with bloodwork), we suggest consulting with your GP.
Iron supplementation and/or an infusion may be required.
TIP:
Consuming foods rich in Vitamin C alongside iron-rich foods can enhance iron absorption (particularly beneficial for those following a plant-based diet).
Consuming Calcium or Zinc (within food or supplementation), alongside iron-rich foods, can inhibit absorption.
Why DVP Fitness?
Do you require assistance on how to adequately fuel your body?
Would you like to be able to ask someone questions every step of the way?
Work alongside our coaches who will take the guess work out, provide you with support and educate you on how to implement these strategies YOURSELF!