When the blood passes through blood vessels in the lungs, oxygen binds to iron and is carried to all the tissues of the body. After releasing oxygen to the tissues, iron binds to the cellular waste product carbon dioxide and carries it to the lungs for exhalation. An iron-containing molecule with each cell, called myoglobin, has a similar function to hemoglobin. Myoglobin transports the newly-arrived oxygen within the cell to be used to convert substances to energy and for all normal cell activities. Iron is therefore the main determinant of how much oxygen reaches and is used by all body tissues, including the brain, muscles, heart, and liver.
Iron strengthens the immune system and increases resistance to colds, infections, and disease.
The Merck Index , 12th edition, 1996. The Essential Guide to Vitamins and Minerals , by Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., 1992. Selected general biochemical and nutrition textbooks. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.