All of the cells in the human body contain iron. It is mostly concentrated in the red blood cells because they transport oxygen to all the body parts. This makes the iron one of the most vital minerals. It is therefore important to maintain a healthy iron level in order to survive.
Iron helps in the transmission of sensory impulses across synapses. It also plays a key role in the generation of energy in the body. Iron is different from other minerals in the body because contrary to other minerals, excess iron is stored in the body for future use and does not create complications of any kind.
Iron supplements are manufactured to fortify the body’s iron levels and fight iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can lead to other complications such as anemia. Anemia is characterized by fatigue, general weakness, concentration difficulty, and dizziness. Some of the people that are at risk of getting iron deficiency include:
Expectant women
Since your body is making blood for both you and your child, your iron levels are usually shared. This may lead to anemia. It is advisable to take iron supplements.
Women with heavy menstrual flows
Losing blood depletes the general iron levels and expels red blood cells. In order to replace the lost blood, iron is required since it makes erythrocytes.
Physically active individuals
If you exercise a lot or engage in activities that require you to exert yourself, you need to take iron supplements. This is because your body requires more red blood cells in order to keep up with your oxygen requirements. Hence you need to boost your body’s iron levels.
People who donate blood regularly
If you donate blood a lot of blood often, you are advised to take iron supplements so that your body can be able to recover the lost blood and make more red blood cells.
People who lose blood regularly
Gastrointestinal bleeding can be as a result of medications or conditions such as cancer or ulcers. If you have such conditions, then you are at high risk of getting iron deficiency anemia. Your body clocks low levels or iron every time you lose blood through any of these conditions.
People with kidney problems
The kidneys are responsible for the release of a hormone known as erythropoietin, which is the hormone that prompts the body to make red blood cells. Kidney problems may inhibit this communication, thus lowering the body’s iron levels.
People that take iron-depleting medications
A variety of the medications that are prescribed have some ingredients that may deplete the iron levels in the body. Most of these medications have to do with ulcers, heartburns and some other complications or problems that are associated with the stomach. It is advisable to seek out a doctor to tell you if your medications affect your iron levels.
You may need to start on iron supplements if you feel that you are at risk of getting iron deficiency anemia. Most of the supplements are available in capsules and are friendly to everyone.