Iron
lentils: sources of iron in the diet

Iron

Iron (Fe), is an essential trace mineral, that is absorbed within the small intestine. Almost two-thirds of the body’s iron is found in haemoglobin that is present in red blood cells involved in the transport of oxygen from the environment to tissues throughout the body.1,2

Dietary sources of Iron

Dietary sources of iron include cereals, pulses, vegetables, nuts, shellfish3.

What are the benefits of iron?

Iron plays a role in the regulation of normal cell division4. Iron’s role in this process is connected to its function in oxygen transport2 and energy-yielding metabolism5.

Iron has multiple benefits, which include:

  • Contributes to normal cognitive function
  • Contributes to normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin
  • Contributes to the normal function of the immune system
  • Contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
  • Iron has a role in the process of cell division