Iron is needed for a number of highly complex processes that continuously take place in the body on a molecular level and that are indispensable to human life.  Formation of haemoglobin is the chief function of this mineral – this is the primary protein found in red blood cells and represents about two thirds of the body’s iron.  Haemoglobin binds to the oxygen molecules that you breathe in from the air and releases them into your tissues.  The brain receives around 20% of the blood oxygen and a proper flow of blood to the brain can stimulate cognitive activity and help to create new neural pathways, it is especially important that children consume enough iron in their diet – iron deficiency in the first two years of a child’s life is associated with delayed cognitive and psychomotor development.  

Ribonucleic reductase is an iron dependant enzyme that is required for DNA synthesis (cell division), thus iron is required for a number of functions including healing and immune function - red blood cells are necessary for providing oxygen to damaged tissues, organs and cells.  Iron is also involved in food metabolism and is a cofactor and activator for some enzymes which play key roles in energy production and metabolism.  If iron stores are low symptoms can include tiredness, fatigue and dizziness.  Dietary iron has two forms, heme (animal based) and non-heme (plant based), important sources are; grass fed beef, oysters, spinach, lentils and beans.

Iron contributes to:

·         normal cognitive function

·         normal energy-yielding metabolism

·         normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin

·         normal oxygen transport in the body

·         normal function of the immune system

·         the reduction of tiredness and fatigue

·         normal cognitive development of children

·         Iron has a role in the process of cell division