Have you felt tired lately? Can you hardly make it up the stairs without getting breathless even though you’re physically fit? Our lifestyles nowadays are extremely busy. Considering that we’re always on the go, tiredness and fatigue seem like daily problems that we often attribute to our hectic routines.
However, these can also be caused by lack of iron. Iron is one of the essential nutrients your body requires to perform its daily activities. Although many people don’t consider of iron as being a nutrient, you might be surprised to hear that low iron is the most common nutritional deficiency. Let’s look at why iron is significant to your body, what can happen if you’re not getting enough of it.
Here are some of the most excellent benefits of iron for your health that you must know:
Improves Muscle function
Iron is an important element for muscle health. It helps in the production of myoglobin, a muscle protein that carries oxygen from hemoglobin and stores it in the muscle cells. It thus helps in the contraction of muscles.
Increases Brain function
This is one of the most significant benefits that you could get from an iron. If iron is not present, the brain does not receive the oxygen it requires, resulting in poor memory, decreased productivity and lack of interest. Moreover, proper flow of blood in the brain can stimulate mental activity and help form new neural pathways to prevent cognitive ailments such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease; therefore, iron intake is essential.
Healthy Pregnancy
Pregnant women should eat more iron-rich foods (read more about foods that are rich in iron) than anyone else as not only do they require iron, but they also need to meet the needs of the fetus and placenta. Iron deficiency during pregnancy raises the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, as well as low iron stores and reduced cognitive or behavioral development in newborns. Therefore, every pregnant woman is strongly recommended to eat more iron-rich foods.
Provides more Energy
Iron acts as a carrier of oxygen in the body and transmits it to the muscles and the brain, thus increasing both physical performance and mental attentiveness. Low levels of iron within the body can make you distracted, irritable, exhausted, and reduced stamina.
Boosts Immunity
We already know that iron contains hemoglobin, which then will assist your body to carry the oxygen to the other parts of your body. This hemoglobin will then increase the activity of the red blood cells. Red blood cells are commonly known for its capability for providing the oxygen to damaged cells, organs, or tissues. This activity from red blood cells will prevent you from any infections that could happen to your illness.
(Read more about ways to improve your immunity)
Enhance glowing Skin
Pale skin and dark circles are the most common symptoms of anemia caused due to iron deficiency. The deficiency of iron will cause hemoglobin deficiency, that means the oxygen is not flowing properly. If the flowing of the oxygen is disturbed, your skin will look so pale, hence will affect your appearance. Eat foods that are rich in iron, that will make your skin glowing and healthy.
Prevents Hair loss
Iron is also beneficial for the health of your hair. It helps the transport of the oxygen from the respiratory organs to the other parts of your body, including your hair. Moreover, iron can increase the absorption of nutrients from the food and carry it to other parts of your body, including your hair. This will make your hair roots and scalp get plenty of oxygen and nutrients that will strengthen your hair.
(Read more about Foods for Strong, Shining, and Healthy Hair)
Other Health Benefits of Iron:
- Enhances hemoglobin formation
- Improves appetite
- Regulates the body temperature
- Treats iron deficiency anemia
- Prevents restless leg syndrome
- Heals the wounds
- Boosts your concentration
Disclaimer: All material on Hidoc.co is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical or health advice. Always seek the advice of your physician for any questions regarding your symptoms or medical condition and before taking any home remedies or supplements.