Contents
Iron (Fe) is needed for hemoglobin formation in the blood. Hemoglobin enables the red blood cells to fill with oxygen and carry it to the cells. It is also needed for myoglobin, the type of hemoglobin in muscle tissue, and the production of enzymes. It is needed for growth, energy production, and immune protection.
Sources
- Black molasses (the richest source, eat a half teaspoonful twice daily)
- Apricots
- Prunes
- Raisins
- Brewer’s yeast
- Beets
- Dulse
- Kelp
- Peaches
- Whole grain cereals
- Leafy greens
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Beans
- Egg yolks
Herbal sources
- Alfalfa
- Burdock root
- Chamomile
- Chickweed
- Dandelion
- Dong quai
- Fennel seed
- Lemongrass
- Fenugreek
- Mullein
- Peppermint
- Plantain
- Raspberry leaf
- Rose hips
- Uva ursi
Deficiency Causes
Although primarily due to insufficient intake in the diet, it can result from intestinal bleeding, ulcers, poor digestion, a diet high in phosphorus (eating lots of meat), continued use of antacids, or excessive use of coffee or black tea. Heavy prolonged periods during menstruation, or short menstrual cycles. Rarely a deficiency of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) or vitamin B12.
Heavy perspiration and strenuous exercise deplete body reserves of this mineral. Taking supplemental calcium with a meal can reduce absorption of this all-important mineral. Take calcium supplements at bedtime instead. Excessive amounts of zinc and vitamin E can also Interfere with absorption. Rheumatoid arthritis and cancer can hinder iron utilization in the body.
Deficiency Symptoms
- Simple (iron) anemia
- Reduced resistance to disease
- Headaches
- Pale skin
- Brittle hair
- Digestive disturbances
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Fragile bones
- Hair loss
- Inflamed mouth tissues
- Slowed mental reactions
- Nervousness
- Nails that have lengthwise ridges or are spoon-shaped
- Candidiasis
- Chronic herpes outbreaks
Cautions
Iron is not absorbed unless there is sufficient hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Eating acid fruits helps iron absorption at that meal. Vitamin C also aids absorption while coffee and tea interfere with it. Iron cannot be absorbed without a slight amount of copper. (But an excess of copper destroys vitamin C.) Iron is stored in the body; and excessive amounts of it is another, but less frequent problem.
Too much iron in the tissues results in too many free radicals (increasing the need for vitamin E) and, ultimately, to bronzed skin coloring. (Do not confuse that with the normal—and harmless—slight yellowing of the skin which may occur when carrot juice is drunk.) Do not take iron supplements during an infection; doing so can increase bacterial growth.
Warning
Do not take these supplements unless absolutely necessary, and definitely not during pregnancy. Avoid multivitamin mineral supplements which contain iron. Never take ferrous sulfate! Instead, choose organic forms of iron (ferrous gluconate or ferrous fumarate). The safer way is to take a daily spoonful of blackstrap molasses.
Dosage
RDA 10 mg for men; 18 mg for women / ODA 45 mg / TDA 50-100 mg. Do not take iron supplements unless you have to. Blackstrap molasses is the richest food source of iron and is a good food. Of course, take it in moderation because it is so sweet. Do not take iron supplement tablets unless you have to; they often contain an iron compound which damages the body.
HEALTH DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational uses only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult an authorized healthcare provider for any health concerns before using any herbal or natural remedy. We do not establish, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Reliance on any material from this website is solely at your own risk. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of information or products mentioned on this website.
REFERENCES
Vance Ferrell, Harold M. Cherne, M.D. 2010. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia. Altamont : Harvestime Books, 2010. pp. 112-113. Vol. Seventh.