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Why iron is essential for women
How important is iron for women?
Iron is found in plant sources such as green leafy vegetables, broccoli, spinach, eggs, blackcurrants, oily fish, dried fruits, nuts, fortified breakfast cereals and chocolates and in animal sources such as meats and meat products. Iron derived from meats is more easily absorbed by the body than iron from plant sources. Certain compounds in cereals and pulses known as phytates, tannins in tea and coffee, calcium and fibre, all reduce absorption of plant-based sources of iron. Conversely, vitamin C actually helps absorb iron more efficiently, so a glass of fruit juice with meals is beneficial.
A lack of iron can eventually lead to iron deficiency anaemia. Those most at risk are toddlers, women of child-bearing age and vegetarians or vegans who have a restricted diet. Loss of blood due to injury or heavy menstrual periods increases iron requirements over the current 12-15 mg/day, so women and teenage girls especially need to ensure their diet is iron-rich or take an iron supplement prescribed by their doctor.
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