Dietary Sources of Iron: Heme vs. Non-Heme Iron Introduction Iron is an essential mineral vital for many bodily functions, including the formation of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport), supporting immune health, and facilitating energy production. Iron is classified into two types based on its source and form: heme iron and non-heme iron.…

Iron Absorption: Factors That Enhance or Inhibit Iron Uptake Iron is a critical mineral for human health, essential for producing hemoglobin and myoglobin, which transport oxygen in the blood and muscle tissues. Despite being abundant in various foods, iron deficiency remains one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. This is largely due to the…

The Role of Iron in Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Iron is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions, but one of its most critical roles is in the formation of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it through…

Iron and Pregnancy: Increased Needs and Risks of Deficiency Iron is a crucial nutrient during pregnancy, essential for both maternal health and fetal development. Pregnant women have increased iron needs to support the growth of the placenta, the expanding blood supply, and the development of the baby’s organs, particularly the brain. Adequate iron intake during…