Iron is considered an essential mineral needed for healthy growth and development. Iron is a part of many proteins (e.g., hemoglobin, myoglobin, DNA synthesis proteins, etc.). It also serves as a cofactor for several enzymes (e.g., cytochromes, electron transport proteins, P450 detoxification enzymes, etc.). Because iron is an integral part of several proteins, enzymes, and cofactors, iron deficiency without anemia has the potential of disturbing a number of vital biological pathways.†
Of the iron that can be obtained from diet, two forms are found: heme and nonheme. Heme iron comes mainly from the hemoglobin and myoglobin in animal products. Heme is a cofactor for hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. Nonheme iron is found primarily in plant foods and requires a more complex process for absorption than heme iron. Therefore, diets that are low in animal products may be more deficient in readily available iron.†
The body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. Around sixty-five percent of the body’s iron stores are found in hemoglobin, which 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. Iron is important for the normal synthesis of certain hormones (e.g., thyroid hormones) and maintaining healthy connective tissues.†
Iron requires certain supporting nutrients such as vitamin C for efficient absorption and utilization in the body. Low levels of these nutrients can make it difficult to increase iron levels even with supplementation.†
Vitamin C reacts with iron in the intestinal tract to form a compound that is easier for the body to absorb. Enzymes known as ferrireductases on the intestinal brush border reduce ferric iron to ferrous, and vitamin C is needed for this action. This is why vitamin C is known to help with the absorption of ferrous iron. The interaction between iron and vitamin C also helps minimize the effect of certain dietary compounds that interfere with iron absorption, such as calcium, phosphate, tannins (found in tea, coffee, and chocolate), and phytates (found in grains and nuts).†
Iron Chewable by Seeking Health provides a well-tolerated and well-absorbed form of iron as ferric glycinate. It also contains vitamin C to support optimal iron absorption.†
Iron Chewable contains a lower amount of iron than our Optimal Iron. This is a great option for those who do not require as much supplemental iron to meet their daily requirements.†