Iron is an essential mineral which primarily works to transport oxygen to your blood cells. It is an important protein component that facilitates metabolism. It also plays a major role in the formation of hemoglobin in the blood.
About 70 percent of iron in your body is found in hemoglobin. A deficiency of this essential mineral can cause anemia, severe fatigue, loss of energy and inability to perform well in most physical and mental activities. You need to take sufficient amounts of iron. This will help to keep you active, energized, alert and free from anemia.
Here are some of the health benefits of iron:
1. It plays a major role in the formation of hemoglobin.
Iron is the main element which plays the biggest role in the formation of hemoglobin, the dark red, oxygen-carrying pigment in the blood cells.
2. It helps to promote normal functioning of muscles.
Iron helps to transport the oxygen that your body needs to make your muscles contract and function normally.
3. It helps to promote brain health
Iron is your body's main transporter of oxygen to your blood cells. Your brain needs 20 percent of your body's blood oxygen to make it function normally. This makes iron an important aspect in the maintenance of your brain's health. It also helps to improve your concentration to enable you to perform your best.
4. It helps to regulate body temperature.
Iron plays a role in regulating your body temperature. It also helps to facilitate metabolism and efficient distribution of energy into your body parts.
5. It helps to prevent restless leg syndrome and insomnia.
According to research, restless leg syndrome and insomnia are among the manifestations of iron deficiency. You can avoid these conditions by taking iron supplements or by eating iron-rich foods such as legumes, whole grains, lentils, soy beans, spinach, broccoli and green leafy vegetables.
5. It helps to combat fatigue.
One of the indications of iron deficiency is loss of energy and severe fatigue. Eating natural foods which are loaded with iron, vitamins and other minerals will help to keep you healthy, strong and alert.
These are some of the health benefits of iron. You should remember that iron is not the only substance that your body needs to stay healthy. Seek the advice of a health professional if you are in doubt of your diet's ability to sustain your body's nutritional needs.
