Why Iron is Important to Me?

Iron is a mineral It carries oxygen on hemoglobin of RBC to cells throughout the body for energy production It also picks up carbon dioxide for waste excretion. Iron in food exists as two types, heme and non-heme. Animal foods such as meat, seafood and poultry provide both types and are better absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron is found in plant foods, such as spinach and beans, grains that are enriched, like rice and bread, and some fortified breakfast cereals . A good way to improve your iron intake is by eating a balanced, healthy diet that includes a variety of foods. Even though iron is widely available in food, some people, like adolescent girls and women ages 19 to 50 years old may not get the amount they need daily. It is also a concern for young children and women who are pregnant or capable of becoming pregnant. Symptoms of iron deficiency or low iron in your body could include: fatigue weakness difficulty maintaining body temperature Other symptoms may include: Pale skin and fingernails, dizziness/ headache and Glossitis (inflamed tongue

How much Iron do You need? 

• Children 1-3 7 mg 
• Children 4-810 mg 
• Children 9-138 mg 
• Males: 14-18 11 mg 
• Females: 14-18 15 mg
• Males: 19+ 8 mg 
• Females: 19-50 18 mg 
• Females: 51+8 mg