Iron plays an important role in our bodies, especially in building healthy blood and energy production. Hemoglobin, an important component of your red blood cells which carry oxygen throughout the body, requires iron in its formation.
Iron is absorbed by the small intestine with the aid of specialized cells, which receive the iron and transport the iron throughout the body. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from plant sources. Be cautious of megadosing vitamin C if you acquire your iron from plant sources as you may overdose on iron.
Other Roles of Iron in the body
- Assists in the conversion of glucose into usable energy
- Deficiency may cause anemia
- Low levels may affect memory
- Help keep stress levels lower
Iron deficiency has also been related to a reduction in efficiency of the body to destroy harmful bacteria by T‑cells and neutrophils (white blood cells).
Sources of Iron
Prunes Garbanzos
Liver (calf) Lentils
Beef (lean) Dried Fruit
Most Legumes (beans) Whole Grain Cereal
Ham (lean) Peas
Chicken (no skin) Wheat Germ (fresh)
Spinach (moderation) Raisins
Cooked Bran
Beet Greens Sunflower Seeds
Artichoke Blackstrap Molasses
Eggs (moderation) Prune Juice