Iron is one of the most critically important minerals in the human body, but is in fact only a trace mineral in terms of concentration in the body. (The body contains approximately 4-5g maximum to function effectively).

The main function of iron from diet is as an important element of the blood pigment haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is contained within red blood cells and is the carrier of vital oxygen around the body. Other than its function in red blood cells, iron is also found in myoglobin (the equivalent of haemoglobin found in muscle) and is additionally a participant in energy-releasing reactions of the body.

Signs of Deficiency
The classical iron deficiency disease is Anaemia. The symptoms of this condition are Fatigue, light-headedness, weakness, etc. accompanied with a correspondingly low haemoglobin measurement in the blood. If you suffer these symptoms, always check with your GP before supplementing Iron as it is imperative that clinical iron deficiency be diagnosed via blood test before supplementing iron or iron containing products

Individuals who may benefit from Iron supplementation
Women of childbearing age are at the most risk of iron deficiency because of their monthly menstrual blood losses. The RDA does not take into account those women with high menstrual losses, who are advised to meet their extra needs with a supplement.

Other people who may need an iron supplement include vegetarians, pregnant women, adolescents, athletes and the elderly
Children may also be deficient in iron, as studies have shown that in Europe, deficiencies of up to 48% are not uncommon

A multiVitamin And mineral supplement containing iron in a suitable balance with other nutrients may be recommended for children, but iron at higher levels should not be taken by children except under medical advice.

Toxicity
Most cases of iron toxicity have involved accidental iron overload in children. Levels of 20mg per kg bodyweight cause acute toxic symptoms in infants and at ten times higher, iron may be fatal. In adults a 100g dose of iron is lethal unless appropriate antidote treatment is given. Always keep iron containing supplements in a lockable cabinet in a sealed container, preferably childproof and away from the hands of children