Is excess iron good for your body?

Answer 1

iron is used in the production of hemoglobin

Hemoglobin carries oxygen throughout the body, so without iron, the tissues, muscles, and other systems do not receive adequate oxygen, and thus cannot function properly.

Answer 2

Iron is needed to make heme, the building block of hemoglobin

Hemoglobin carries oxygen throughout the body, so without iron, the tissues, muscles, and other systems do not receive adequate oxygen, and thus cannot function properly.

Iron is essential to good health. Most iron in the body is contained in haemoglobin and myoglobin, the red pigments that carry oxygen. It also occurs as part of enzymes involved in energy production. A deficiency of iron results in anaemia, a lowering of haemoglobin concentration in the blood. The muscles and tissues are starved of vital oxygen, we feel tired and lethargic. Other problems may include a sore tongue, cracks at the corner of the mouth, and nails that lack their usual pink flare. Heavy endurance training and bleeding (including menstrual bleeding) can increase the risk of iron deficiency and the need for iron therapy (increased iron intake by dietary adjustment and supplementation). Ten to fifteen percent of women between the ages of 13 and 45 lose more iron in menstrual bleeding than they acquire throughout the month from foods. Therefore, they probably require iron supplements to prevent iron deficiency.

Answer 3

Yes, it's an essential mineral. However, it's very possible to have too much of a good thing, especiaily iron, so don't go chugging down iron supplements or the like. If you choose to take iron supplements, avoid taking anything more than a standard multivitamin's worth (100% of the RDA) unless instructed to by a doctor.

Answer 4

Excess anything is not good for anyone (baby or adult). Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or pediatrician. There are free clinics near all metropolitan areas if you don't have insurance.