Iron is an essential mineral found in dietary sources and supplements. Iron serves several functions in the body, including support for metabolism and the health of the circulatory system. Many vitamin-mineral supplements geared toward women contain iron to ensure adequate intake during the reproductive years. If your intake of fruits and vegetables is low, you may benefit from a supplement with iron. However, iron supplements may interact with some antibiotics or statin drugs. If you are on these types of medications, consult your doctor before taking a supplement with iron.
Benefits
Iron plays a central role in oxygen transport within the body through heme-containing proteins found in the blood. Heme is a non-protein, iron-containing compound found throughout the body. In addition to the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, iron also supports energy metabolism. Energy is required for every process and chemical reaction in the human body, making iron essential for proper body functioning.
Supplement Usage
A 2000 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that up to 40 percent of Americans took at least one vitamin or mineral supplement daily. While iron was not among the top supplements, it is a nutrient of concern as identified by the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, especially for women in their reproductive years. Part of the reason for iron deficiency may lie in inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables, rich sources of this nutrient. While not ideal, a supplement with iron may compensate for dietary deficiencies, especially when it is paired with vitamin C. This vitamin enhances iron absorption.
Varying Needs
Your needs for iron vary throughout your life. Women age 19 through 50 should consume 18 mg of iron daily. This figure drops to 8 mg a day after age 51. The recommended intake of iron for adolescent and adult men throughout their lives is also 8 mg per day. The iron in your body is found primarily in your blood. It can accumulate in your body, making adherence to dosage guidelines necessary.
Children and Iron
If you keep supplements with iron in your home, you should keep them out of reach of children. A 2000 study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission identified iron poisoning as the leading cause of poison-related injury and death among children in the United States. Men and post-menopausal women should also exercise caution when taking supplements with iron, as deficiencies in these population groups is rare in healthy individuals.
References
- Whole Health MD: Iron
- Linus Pauling Institute: Iron
- USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion: Section 2: Nutrient Adequacy
- "Archives of Family Medicine"; Vitamin and Mineral Supplement Use in the United States; L. Balluz, ScD et al; March 2000
- "Southern Medical Journal"; Pediatric Iron Poisonings in the United States; C. Craig Morris; April 2000
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