IRON DEFICIENCY

1. ABOUT IRON DEFICIENCY Iron is a mineral which is necessary for the organism's normal functioning. Iron is used by the body to produce hemoglobin, and this substance helps in carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body in red blood cells. Iron deficiency therefore slows down the transferrance of oxygen to the organs and tissues. This is a condition where the body does not have enough iron in its disposal. This is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies and is the leading cause of anemia. Iron deficiency or anemia postpones the normal development of motorical abilities and mental functions in children. It can lead to premature labour during pregnancy and it also leads to inability for a person to perform any physical activity because the person experiences extreme physical fatigue. Iron from food is absorbed in the initial part of the small bowel, duodenum. Various diseases that affect the mucous membranes of the intestines affect the absorption of iron and lead to anemia. Reduced intake of dietary iron as a cause of anemia is common in infants and children. Their needs of iron are great because they are growing. Another important cause of iron deficiency is the existence of a parasitic infection and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. SOURCE: IRON DEFICIENCY

2. ABOUT IRON DEFICIENCY • Anemia is the most common blood disorder and it is caused by lack of iron. Without a sufficient amount of iron the body can not produce enough hemoglobin. This type of anemia, which is caused by iron deficiency can be treated with changes in nutrition and special diets. The signs of anemia are fatigue, exhaustion and body weakness, the declension of intellectual and working abilities at work or school, the inability to maintain normal body temperature and the immune system is extremely weakened. Any anemia that leads to a considerable lack of hemoglobin causes sluggishness and headaches. • SOURCE: IRON DEFICIENCY