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What does it do? Iron is part of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of the blood. Iron- deficient people tire easily, because their bodies are starved for oxygen. Iron is also part of myoglobin, which helps muscle cells store oxygen. Without enough iron, ATP (the fuel the body runs on) cannot be properly synthesized. As a result, some iron-deficient people become fatigued even when their hemoglobin levels are normal.

Although iron is part of the antioxidant enzyme catalase, iron is not generally considered an antioxidant, because too much iron can cause oxidative damage.

Where is it found? The most absorbable form of iron, called "heme" iron, is found in oysters, meat, poultry, and fish. Non-heme iron is also found in these foods, as well as in dried fruit, molasses, leafy green vegetables, and wine. Acidic foods (such as tomato sauce) cooked in an iron pan can also be a source of dietary iron.

Who is likely to be deficient? Vegetarians eat less iron than non-vegetarians, and the iron they eat is somewhat less absorbable. As a result, vegetarians are more likely to have reduced iron stores. However, iron deficiency is not usually caused by a lack of iron in the diet alone; there's often an underlying cause, such as iron loss in menstrual blood.

Pregnant women, marathon runners, people who take aspirin, and those who have parasitic infections, hemorrhoids, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or other conditions that cause blood loss or malabsorption are likely to become deficient.

Individuals who fit into one of these groups, even pregnant women, shouldn't automatically take iron supplements. Fatigue, the first symptom of iron deficiency, can be caused by many other things. A nutritionally oriented doctor should assess the need for iron supplements, since taking iron when it isn't needed does no good and may do some harm.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Huge overdoses (as when a child swallows an entire bottle of iron supplements) can be fatal. Keep iron-containing supplements out of a child's reach. Hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, polycythemia, and iron-loading anemias (such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia) are conditions involving excessive storage of iron. Supplementing iron can be quite dangerous for people with these diseases.

Supplemental doses required to overcome iron deficiency can cause constipation. Sometimes switching the form of iron, getting more exercise, or treating the constipation with fiber and fluids is helpful. Sometimes it's necessary to reduce the amount of iron if constipation occurs.

Some researchers have potentially linked excess iron to diabetes, cancer, increased risk of infection, lupus erythematosus (SLE), and exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis. While none of these links has been proven, it is known that too much iron causes free radical damage, which can cause or exacerbate most of these diseases. People who are not iron deficient should not supplement iron when potential risks might exist and no benefit can be found.

Caffeine, high-fiber foods, and calcium supplements reduce iron absorption. Vitamin C slightly increases iron absorption. Taking vitamin A with iron helps treat iron deficiency, since vitamin A helps the body use iron stored in the liver.

A high potency yeast-free multiple vitamin and mineral formula with iron. One hard gelatin capsule per day. Retail price about 0.35 per day.

A high potency multi vitamin and mineral formula rich in antioxidant vitamins C, E and beta-carotene with iron. Two hard gelatin capsules per day. Retail price about 0.80 per day.

TwinLab products mentioned above are available at health food stores, such as Hi-Health, or on-line through VitaCost or WalMart .

LifePak Women is the optimal dietary supplement for pre-menopausal women over the age of 18. LifePak Women is designed to help meet the specific nutritional requirements for women interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The LifePak Women formula also addresses specific health goals of women, such as bone health and safe levels of vitamin A for women of child bearing years.

> Contains specialized ingredients specific to women's health issues, including soy protein with isoflavones, and a high-quality source of gamma linoleic acid from evening primrose oil.
> Features a complete multi-vitamin/mineral combination.
> Includes multi-sourced antioxidant ingredients including phytonutrients.
> Contains safe levels of vitamin A for women of child bearing years.
> Provides an optimal blend of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D to provide dietary support.
> Provides an excellent source of iron.
> Increased levels of soy isoflavones.
> Provides the nutrient inositol and borage oil powder.
> Improved source of evening primrose oil.
One packet to be taken twice a day. Retail price about 2.17 per day

To order LifePak Women, call (800) 487-1000 or order on-line at Pharmanex.
When ordering, please list Healthstop as your referring sponsor.

Retail costs listed on this page are for comparison purposes only. Discounted prices available on most products.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information presented on these pages is based on scientifically based research and current medical knowledge. Many of the supplements mentioned on these pages have been used to treat diseases for hundreds or thousands of years. The medical community is just beginning to research natural treatments. As new information develops, the information on these pages will be updated. Whenever possible, several sources for each supplement will be listed. The manufacturers mentioned within, have presented evidence that they have independent studies demonstrating standardization of potency, purity, and activity for that product. Some of the products presented are processed by Pharmanex.

The vitamins and supplements produced by Twin Labs can be purchased through local health food stores or on-line through VitaCost or WalMart.

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