What Is the Importance of Dietary Iron?
Dietary iron is necessary for a number of functions in the body. If people do not get enough iron they can become sick, and in extreme cases of iron deficiency people can die. Iron deficiency is a very common nutritional deficiency that can be easily managed by increasing iron intake with dietary changes and supplements. It is important to avoid consuming too much iron, as this trace element can become dangerous in high concentrations. A doctor can provide a patient with advice on daily iron recommendations, but generally adult males should take around 8 milligrams while adult women should take 18 milligrams, unless they are pregnant, in which case the recommended intake is 27 milligrams. One of the most important roles of dietary iron is as a component in hemoglobin and myoglobin, both used as oxygen transporters. The iron makes these transporters much more efficient, ensuring that the cells get enough oxygen. People with iron deficiencies can develop anemia and will feel weak, fatigu