Definition:
An essential trace mineral required for oxygen transport, energy production, DNA synthesis, and normal immune and neurological function. Most of the body’s iron is found in hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and in myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle. Dietary iron occurs primarily as heme iron in animal foods and non-heme iron in plant foods and animal foods. The human body contains iron equivalent to a single 2-inch nail.
