| |
A deficiency of iron can occur in the body for a variety of reasons, such as inadequate intake, poor absorption (for example chronic diarrhoea or malabsorption syndrome), increased iron demands (as in pregnancy) and abnormal loss of blood from the body (for example hookworm, gastric ulcers and frequent or excessive menstruation). Anemia is the most common form of iron deficiency. Iron, a mineral, functions primarily as a carrier of oxygen in the body, both as a part of hemoglobin in the blood and of myoglobin in the muscles. Iron is one of the most important trace elements required by the body and is widely distributed throughout it. It is an essential element for the formation of hemoglobin of red blood cells; about 60-70% of iron is contained in hemoglobin.
With out oxygen, none of the tissues can survive.
|
|
|
