Iron is the most abundant mineral found in blood. The remainder is stored in the liver, spleen and bone marrow. The most important function of iron is in the production of hemoglobin and oxygenation of red blood cells. Iron is also important for growth in children, maintaining a healthy immune system and for energy production.
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia.
The groups at highest risk are infants under two years of age, teenage girls, pregnant women and the elderly. Iron deficiency may be due to an increased iron requirement, decreased dietary intake, diminished iron absorption or utilization, blood loss, or a combination of factors. An adolescent consuming a junk food diet is at higher risk of iron deficiency. Blood loss is the most common cause of iron deficiency in women of child-bearing age due to excessive menstrual bleeding. Individuals who engage in strenuous exercise and perspire heavily deplete iron from the body.