IRON

IRON

DESCRIPTION: Iron is vital in the formation of red blood cells (RBC's). Iron's most important function is its production of hemoglobin and oxygenation of RBC's. Iron is the mineral found in the largest amounts in the blood.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Iron builds up the quality of blood and increases the body's resistance to disease and stress. Iron attracts oxygen to the body and carries oxygen to the all body systems, tissues and organs. Iron improves circulation, digestion, elimination and respiration. Iron improves magnetism, optimism, vitality, courage and will. Iron also helps to improve memory and reasoning ability. Iron also helps to prevent colds.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Excessive Iron build-up in the body is associated with a rare disease known as hemochromatosis. Hemochromatosis is a disorder that causes bronze skin pigmentation, cirrhosis of the liver, diabetes and heart conditions. Iron deficiency symptoms include brittle hair and nails that are shaped like a spoon, or the nails will have ridges running lengthwise. Iron deficiency can also cause hair loss, fatigue, dizziness, pallor (paleness) and anemia. Iron deficiency may also result from intestinal bleeding, excessive menstrual bleeding, a diet the is poor or a diet that is high in phosphorus. Iron deficiencies can also be caused by long-term illness, ulcers, excess coffee or tea consumption and long term use of antacids.

POTENTIAL INTERACTION: Excessive amounts of Vitamin E and Zinc interfere with Iron absorption. Also if you engage in strenuous exercise and perspire excessively, you can possibly deplete Iron from your body. Research indicates that Iron utilization is impaired by Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer. This will result in anemia even if adequate amounts of Iron is stored in the bone marrow, liver and spleen.

GENERAL USAGE: May be taken daily. Please consult with your doctor if you have any other the deficiency symptoms listed above.

FOOD SOURCES: Iron is found in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, eggs, fish, liver, meat, poultry and enriched cereals and breads. Iron is also found in almonds, avocados, beets, blackstrap molasses, brewer's yeast, dates, dulse, egg yolks, kelp, kidney beans, lima beans, lentils, millet, parsley, peaches, dried prunes, pumpkins, raisins, rice, wheat bran, sesame seeds and soybeans.

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