Iron

Iron is a mineral that the body needs for growth and development. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body, and myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles. Your body also needs iron to make some hormones and to maintain healthy cells, skin, hair, and nails.

Iron deficiency can manifest as:

• Weakness

• Fatigue

• Fast resting heart rate

• Shortness of breath on exertion

• Cold hands and feet

• Have brittle nails or hair loss

• Dizziness

• Tinnitus

• Spots before the eyes

• Drowsiness

• Irritability

• Infrequent menstruation

• Loss of libido

Causes of iron  deficiency:

• Blood loss

• Lack of iron in your diet

• An inability to absorb iron

• Pregnancy

Risk factors:

• Menstruation

• Infants and children

• Vegan and vegetarian diet

• Frequent blood donors

A simple blood test can help you know if you’re low on iron. It’s important to know if you are low on iron before you choose an iron supplement.