The human body is an amazing arrangement of complex designs and intriguing functions that completely depend one upon the other in order to create wholeness, harmony and health. When one facet of a nutritional necessity is out of balance, the entire body will adjust in order to accommodate the deficiency that exists. Just as water is the major component of the body’s living cells, so iron is the central support system for the red blood cells. Without it, the red blood cells cannot find their identity and a condition called anemia will result. For every individual, some level of awareness about the role of iron in our bodies is imperative if we are to become motivated enough to apply its nutritional standards to our daily diet.

WHAT IS IRON

Iron is a trace mineral that is essential in promoting the health of our red blood cells and it is a means to transport the oxygen that our body needs. Iron is also a component that assist enzymes in digesting food. It is found in red meats, poultry, fish, beans, tofu, millet and dark green leafy vegetables. Unfortunately, less than 20% of the iron that we ingest through our diet is absorbed through our digestive system. Vitamin C is an aid in helping the absorption of this essential mineral. Iron is stored in the liver, kidney, spleen and bone marrow.

SYMPTOMS OF IRON DEFICIENCIES

What happens when the body does not have an ample supply of iron? Without adequate iron in the body, the muscles become depleted of energy and vital organs become weak and incapable of properly functioning. You may have an iron deficiency if you experience any of these symptoms:

-Low energy
-Decreased appetite
-Rapid heartbeat
-Sore tongue
-Headache in the frontal area
-Low blood pressure
-Brittle hair and nails
-Abdominal pain
-Insomnia
-Craving for dirt and ice

Varying degrees of these symptoms exist with every individual and there are other relevant symptoms that may raise concern about having an iron deficiency.

STAYING HEALTHY and ANEMIC FREE

There is a wealth of valuable information and recipes online, in health magazines and at health organizations that help promote red blood cell health and encourage ample iron intake. Launch out and discover foods that can help you create delightful iron-rich entrées, and use iron supplements when appropriate. It is but a small effort to invest in the health of your blood.

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