IRON 14MG

What is Iron?
Approximately 3-4g of Iron is stored in our bodies. The Iron stores are spread throughout, from the muscles and tissues to proteins in the blood and bone marrow. The mineral is available in two sources: haem and non-haem. Haem sources are easier to absorb into our bodies and originate from animal products, such as red meat, fish and poultry. Roughly 90% of the UK's dietary Iron is acquired by a non-haem source. These derive from pulses and legumes such as beans, peas and lentils, as well as dark green leafy vegetables, tofu, nuts and seeds.

Non-haem Iron should be consumed with Vitamin C to help with absorption, however tannins, phytate, fibre and Calcium can interfere with Iron absorption and should attempt to be avoided when consuming Iron sources. This includes tea, coffee and red wine. Due to the nature of the most readily available sources of Iron, vegetarians and vegans are at a higher risk of deficiency. Iron requirements: Iron requirements vary throughout our lives, with teenage males requiring 11.3mg and teenage girls needing 14.8mg per day. This increases to 8.7mg per day for adult men and 14.8mg for adult women. Females naturally need more Iron due to menstruation.