Iron is a very important nutrient. The adult human body contains 3 to 4 grams of iron Of this 50 to 70 per cent is present in hemoglobin of blood. F-ach gram of hemoglobin contains 3 to 3.4
Functions
1. It is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin.
2. It is required for brain development and muscle activity.
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3. It is needed for the regulation of body temperature.
4. It has a central function in oxygen transport and call respiration.
Sources:
Iron is present in liver, meat, kidney, fish, cereals, green leafy vegetables, legumes, jaggery and date fruits.
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Deficiency:
Deficiency of iron leads to anemia. Also iron deficiency leads to impaired immunity and decreased resistance to infection.
Requirement:
The recommended intake of iron is 15 to 30 mg per day.