BBC

Iron

Quick summary of the science :  

Iron is an essential nutrient for human health, playing a vital role in many physiological processes. It is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. Iron is also involved in energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, and the immune system.

It needs to be carefully regulated in the body to prevent both deficiency and excess. Too little iron can lead to anemia, fatigue, and decreased immune function, while too much iron can damage organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. To delve deeper into these two sides of the iron story, we have split our content into two separate pages.

In one, we will explore the consequences of iron deficiency, explore strategies for prevention, and also shed light on the potential risks associated with over-supplementing. In the other, we’ll discuss the intricate connection with chronic health conditions that impact millions worldwide, it’s essential to highlight that these health challenges often stem from  excess of iron. By understanding both sides of the iron equation, we can optimize our iron status for optimal health.

But here comes the KICKER.

You can be IRON DEFICIENT and  have IRON OVERLOAD at the same time.

It’s a distribution problem.  The iron is not getting to where it needs to be.  This is what commonly happens in people who are suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions such as  INSULIN RESISTANCE.  

Iron homeostasis is tightly regulated in the body by a complex interplay of proteins and hormones. Watch these videos to learn more about some of the key players in iron homeostasis and how they’re dysregulated in someone who is insulin resistant

Want to learn more about the bad body chemistry that is INSULIN RESISTANCE ? View the “Ups and Downs of Insulin Resistance” series.