Iron is an essential mineral and plays an important role in producing blood cells. Your body relies on iron to produce hemoglobin and myoglobin -- proteins that carry oxygen through your system. As with many vitamins and minerals, having too much or too little of an essential dietary component can cause a variety of medical symptoms and conditions. A well-balanced, healthy diet provides your body with the right balance of nutrition.
Iron Functions
Iron plays a number of important roles in your body. It primarily enables your cells and enzymes to function properly. Enzymes are essential to the digestion of food. When your body is low on iron, the enzymes are unable to properly break down the contents in your stomach and intestines, which can lead to a number of symptoms, including weakness, fatigue and headaches. Iron is also critical in the development of healthy cells, which are needed to perform an array of functions that keep your body healthy.
Iron and Weight-Loss
A person with low levels of iron in her body has an iron deficiency. Other terms used to identify an iron deficiency include anemia and iron deficiency anemia. While this condition causes a number of symptoms, it does not cause weight loss.
A body that is unable to control the amount of iron it absorbs can generate high levels or iron, which can be dangerous. This is a genetic disorder known as hemochromatosis. One symptom of hemochromatosis is weight loss. The disorder encourages high amounts of iron absorption through the gastrointestinal tract and does not allow for regulation.
Iron Poisoning
It is typically difficult for a person to absorb too much iron if she does not have hemochromatosis. The possibility for iron poisoning does exist, however, especially in children who take iron supplements. Extremely high levels or iron in the body can result in weight loss, as well as anorexia, vomiting, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and a graying of skin color. If you believe you have iron poisoning, contact a poison control center.
Proper Nutrition
A balanced and nutritious diet is perhaps the best way to regulate your iron levels. Be sure you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, lean meat, low-fat dairy and nuts and seeds. If you have low iron levels, incorporate foods that are rich in iron, such as poultry, eggs, iron-fortified cereals, breads, pastas, beans, peas, dark leafy vegetables and dried fruit. If you have high iron levels, reduce the amount of iron-rich foods in your diet. Consult your doctor if you are unsure about how much iron you need in your diet.
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