What Function Does Iron Have In The Human Body?
Iron is one of the most common metals on the Earth and it is present as a mineral in many ores in rocks. It is also required by many life processes in animals and plants. Iron forms an important part of many proteins and enzymes that help the human body function efficiently. It is a component of haemoglobin, the protein involved in the movement of oxygen around the body. It is also required for the control of the cycle of cell division and growth and for cell differentiation. Almost two thirds of the iron in the human body forms the co-factor in haemoglobin and if the body does not absorb enough iron in the diet the ability of the body to transport oxygen is affected. Iron deficiency can lead to tiredness, dizziness, fainting, pale skin and an overall lack of energy. It also decreases the ability of the immune system to fight of infection. Iron also forms part of another protein called myoglobin, which supplies oxygen to active muscle cells.
