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We’ve all heard that iron is an important mineral that’s essential for our bodies. But we may not know exactly why it’s important, especially for women.
So, let’s discuss the role of iron in our body’s functions and, more specifically, what the iron benefits for females are.
The Importance of Iron
Iron is a mineral the body needs for growth and development. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Iron is also used to make myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles. It helps combat fatigue and tiredness while providing immune support.
When our iron levels become low, iron deficiency can occur. Low iron levels can result in tiredness, poor concentration, and frequent bouts of illness. Iron supplements are a great way to reverse a deficiency, especially if diet changes alone aren’t working.
Why Women Typically Need More Iron Than Men
Women with menstrual cycles typically require more iron than men to maintain healthy iron levels. Additionally, that requirement is further increased during pregnancy and lactation. This additional requirement is usually provided by iron supplements.
Below are 4 benefits iron provides to females.
1. Helps Manage Fatigue
Iron may help manage unexplained fatigue, even in someone who isn’t anemic. This is especially common in women during their reproductive years.
Iron supplements taken to improve fatigue can make you feel like you have more energy.
2. Healthy Pregnancy
During pregnancy, blood volume and red blood cell production increase significantly to supply the growing fetus with oxygen and nutrients. This results in an increased demand for oxygen.
The body usually maximizes the absorption of iron during pregnancy, however, insufficient iron intake or other factors affecting the way iron is absorbed can cause an iron deficiency.
Low iron intake during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, as well as impaired cognitive or behavioral development in infants. Additionally, pregnant women with low iron may be more prone to infection since iron is important for maintaining immune system function.
Iron is especially important for pregnant women, which is why most pregnant women are advised by their medical professional to take a supplement throughout their pregnancy.
3. Boost Hair Health
Iron plays a role in hair growth and health, so hair loss can possibly be the result of an iron deficiency. Having adequate iron levels can help with the prevention of hair loss or improve existing hair loss.
4. Improved Athletic Performance
Iron deficiency is more common among athletes than those who don’t have an active lifestyle and is especially common in young female athletes – and even more so in female endurance athletes like distance runners.
Athletes with iron deficiency are at risk of poor athletic performance and weakened immune systems. Iron supplementation has been shown to improve athletic performance for young females.
Trusted Iron Supplements
When looking for an iron supplement, it’s important to get one that’s from a trusted source. Country Life Vitamins carries two top-quality iron supplements that females can benefit from, Iron Aid ™ (15mg tablets) and Easy Iron (25 mg capsules).
Shop Country Life today to supplement your diet with this critical mineral.
Sources:
https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/food-nutrition-and-diet/iron-supplements-for-women
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/287228#benefits
https://www.verywellhealth.com/iron-supplements-benefits-4178814
