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What is Iron?

Iron is a trace mineral that helps build red blood cells. It is at the centre of the hemoglobin molecule. When iron is combined with oxygen, it gives arterial blood a bright red colour. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying the oxygen from the lungs to different body tissues through blood. Iron is also necessary for creating myoglobin which supplies oxygen to the muscle tissue. It is necessary for energy production and a healthy immune system.

The World Health Organization estimates that 80 per cent of the global population may not get enough iron, resulting in low iron levels and iron deficiency anemia. Full article

Iron Food Sources: 
Dark leafy vegetables 
Eggs 
Legumes 
Liver 
Meat 
Nuts 
Seeds 
Whole and enriched bread and cereals

Note: the highest concentration of iron is in meat sources. The body can more easily absorb iron found in meat (10-30 percent), compared to plant sources (2-10 percent).

Source: 
The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book- Using Supplements for Optimal Health (2nd Edition), by Dr. Shari Lieberman, PhD and Nancy Bruning. Published by Avery Publishing Group, New York in 1997.

Related Links: 
What makes the body absorb too much iron? an article from Dr. Mercola's website www.mercola.com 
Iron Can Have Devastating Effects on Your Health a podcast from Dr. Mercola's website www.mercola.com 
Supplement Your Health with Iron on Chet Day's Health & Beyond website www.chetday.com