The human body is made up of various chemical elements that perform certain functions in the body. Chemical elements are in balance, which allows you to maintain the normal functions of organs and systems. Violation of this balance leads to pathological processes and various diseases.
The human body is 60% water, 34% organic matter and 6% inorganic matter. Organic substances include carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and others. Inorganic substances contain 22 chemical elements - Fe, Ca, Mg, F, Cu, Zn, Cl, I, Se, B, K and others.
All inorganic substances are divided into microelements and macroelements. It depends on the mass fraction of the element. Micronutrients include iron, copper, zinc and others. Macroelements - calcium, sodium, potassium and others.
Iron ( Fe) refers to trace elements. Despite not a small content of iron in the body, it plays a special role in maintaining its vital functions. The lack of iron in the human body, as well as its excess, adversely affect many functions of the body and human health in general.
If the patient complains of increased fatigue, malaise, palpitations, the doctor prescribes an analysis of serum iron. This analysis helps to evaluate the iron metabolism in the body and identify many pathological processes associated with iron metabolism. In order to understand what serum iron is, why it is needed and how it appears, it is necessary to consider the functions of iron and its metabolism in the human body.
Why is iron needed in the body?
Iron is a versatile chemical element that performs vital functions in the body. The body cannot produce iron, so it gets it from food. Human nutrition should be balanced, containing daily allowance vitamins and chemical elements. Lack or excess of vitamins and minerals leads to the development of diseases and poor health. Iron, which is contained in the body, is divided into:
- functional iron. Functional iron is part of hemoglobin ( iron-containing protein of erythrocytes, capturing and carrying oxygen to the organs and tissues of the body), myoglobin ( oxygen-containing protein of skeletal muscles and muscles of the heart, which creates oxygen reserves), enzymes ( specific proteins that change the speed chemical reactions in the body). Functional iron is involved in many body processes and is constantly used.
- Transport iron. Transport iron is the amount of an element that is transferred from the source of iron into the body to each of its cells. Transport iron is not involved in the functions of the body. It is part of the carrier proteins - transferrin ( major iron ion carrier protein in blood plasma), lactoferrin ( carrier protein found in breast milk, tears, saliva and other secretory fluids) and mobilferrin ( iron ion transport protein in the cell).
- deposited iron. Part of the iron that enters the body is deposited “in reserve”. Iron is deposited in various organs and tissues, mainly in the liver and spleen. Iron is deposited in the form of ferritin ( water-soluble complex protein complex, which is the main intracellular depot of iron) or hemosiderin ( iron-containing pigment formed from the breakdown of hemoglobin).
- Free iron. Free iron or free pool is iron that is not bound to proteins inside cells, formed as a result of the release of iron from the triple complex - iron, apotransferrin ( transferrin precursor protein) and receptor ( molecules on the cell surface that attach molecules of various chemicals and transmit regulatory signals). In its free form, iron is highly toxic. Therefore, free iron is transported within the cell by mobilferrin or deposited with ferritin.
- Heme iron ( cellular). Heme iron makes up the bulk of the total iron content in the human body - up to 70 - 75%. Participates in the internal exchange of iron ions and is part of hemoglobin, myoglobin and many enzymes ( substances that speed up chemical reactions in the body).
- Non-heme iron. Non-heme iron is divided into extracellular and deposited iron. Extracellular iron includes free plasma iron and iron-binding transport proteins - transferrin, lactoferrin, mobilferrin. Deposited iron is found in the body in the form of two protein compounds - ferritin and hemosiderin.
- transport of oxygen to tissues the composition of the erythrocyte includes hemoglobin, the molecules of which contain 4 iron atoms each; iron in the composition of hemoglobin binds and transports oxygen from the lungs to all cells of the body;
- participation in the processes of hematopoiesis - the bone marrow uses iron to synthesize hemoglobin, which is part of red blood cells;
- detoxification of the body iron is necessary for the synthesis of liver enzymes involved in the destruction of toxins;
- regulation of immunity and increase in body tone - iron affects the composition of the blood, the level of leukocytes needed to maintain immunity;
- involved in the process of cell division iron is part of proteins and enzymes involved in DNA synthesis;
- synthesis of hormones iron is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulates the body's metabolism;
- supplying cells with energy iron delivers oxygen to the energy molecules of the protein.
daily iron requirement
| Floor | Age | daily iron requirement |
| Children
(regardless of gender) | 1 – 3 years | 6.8 mg per day |
| 3 – 11 years old | 10 mg per day | |
| 11 – 14 years old | 12 mg per day | |
| Female | 14 – 18 years old | 15 mg per day |
| 19 - 50 years old | 18 mg per day | |
| over 50 years old | 8 mg per day | |
| Pregnant women | - | 38 mg per day |
| breastfeeding women | - | 33 mg per day |
| Male gender | 14 – 18 years old | 11 mg per day |
| over 19 years old | 8 mg per day |
Iron in the body is found in different concentrations depending on the type of iron, as well as gender.
Distribution of iron in the human body
| iron type | Iron concentration ( mg Fe/kg) | |
| women | men | |
| total iron | ||
| The total iron content in the human body is 4.5 - 5 grams. | 40 mg Fe/kg | 50 mg Fe/kg |
| Functional iron | ||
| Hemoglobin ( Hb). From total iron in the body 75 - 80% ( 2.4 g) falls on hemoglobin iron ( hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that transports oxygen to tissues). | 28 mg Fe/kg | 31 mg Fe/kg |
| Myoglobin. The composition of myoglobin oxygen-binding protein of skeletal muscle and heart muscle) includes 5 - 10% of the total amount of iron. | 4 mg Fe/kg | 5 mg Fe/kg |
| Heme and non-heme enzymes ( chemical substances that speed up chemical reactions in the human body). Respiratory enzymes account for about 1% of the total amount of iron in the body. | 1 mg Fe/kg | 1 mg Fe/kg |
| Transport iron | ||
| Transferrin ( specific protein - carrier of iron in blood plasma). | 0.2) mg Fe/kg | 0.2) mg Fe/kg |
| iron depot ( iron stores in the body). Reserve iron is 20 - 25% of the total amount of iron in the body. | ||
| Ferritin. | 4 mg Fe/kg | 8 mg Fe/kg |
| Hemosiderin. | 2 mg Fe/kg | 4 mg Fe/kg |
Iron metabolism in the human body
Metabolism ( exchange) iron is a very well organized process. In the body, the processes of intake and recycling of iron are clearly regulated, since this is a very valuable microelement.Iron absorption occurs in three stages. The first stage is the initial stage ( absorption in the small intestine), the second - intracellular transport with the formation of iron reserves, the third - the release of iron into the blood plasma.
Iron enters the body with food. With the intake of 10 - 20 milligrams of iron with food per day, only 10% of iron is absorbed, which is 1 - 2 milligrams. The body obtains heme iron from food meat, liver) and non-heme iron ( milk, vegetables, fruits). Heme iron enters the body as part of hemoglobin and myoglobin from meat foods and is absorbed by the body 20–30% more efficiently ( regardless of secretion gastric juice and other factors). The main dietary intake is non-heme iron ( 80 – 90% ). The absorption of such iron occurs passively and in a small amount ( 1 – 7% ). This process is also influenced by many external factors.
Substances that inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron are:
- fittings - found in cereals, legumes, semolina and oatmeal;
- tannins - contained in tea, cocoa, coffee, quince, dark grapes, currants;
- phosphoproteins - complex proteins contained in milk, egg white;
- oxalates - found in corn, rice, grains, spinach, milk;
- some medicines - calcium preparations, oral contraceptives.
- vitamin C ( ascorbic acid) – found in white cabbage, spinach, red and green peppers, black currants, dried rose hips;
- copper - found in the liver, peanuts, hazelnuts, shrimp, peas, buckwheat, lentils;
- meat products - beef, veal, rabbit and others;
- seafood - fish, oysters, shrimp;
- amino acids - found in legumes, nuts, fish, meat, milk, peanuts, eggs.
After the intake of ferrous iron ( Fe2+) into the sections of the small intestine, it enters the enterocytes ( epithelial cells of the small intestine). Iron absorption into enterocytes occurs with the help of special proteins - mobilferrin, integrin and others. The cells of the small intestine contain transferrin and ferritin. These two proteins regulate the absorption and distribution of iron throughout the body.
When iron enters the body through enterocytes, part of it is deposited ( stored in reserve), some is transported by the protein transferrin and used by the body to synthesize heme ( part of hemoglobin that contains iron), erythropoiesis ( formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow) and other processes.
Deposit ( reservation) iron occurs in two forms - in the composition of ferritin and hemosiderin. Ferritin is a water-soluble protein complex that is synthesized ( produced) cells of the liver, bone marrow, small intestine and spleen. The main function of this protein is the binding and temporary storage of iron in a non-toxic form for the body. Ferritin of liver cells is the main depot of iron in the body. The ferritin of the small intestine cells is responsible for the transfer of iron that has entered the enterocytes to the blood plasma transferrin. Hemosiderin is an iron-containing water-insoluble pigment that deposits excess iron in tissues.
The transport of iron in the blood plasma is carried out by a special carrier protein - transferrin. Transferrin is synthesized by liver cells. Its main function is to transport iron absorbed in the intestinal cells and iron from destroyed erythrocytes ( red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen to tissues and organs) for reuse. Normally, transferrin is saturated with iron only by 33%.
The body loses iron daily - up to 1 - 2 milligrams per day. Physiological iron loss normally occurs when iron is excreted in the bile through the intestines, when the epithelium is desquamated gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract), during desquamation ( exfoliation) skin, in women with menstrual blood ( 14 mg to 140 mg per month), with hair loss and cutting nails.
What is serum iron and what is the norm of iron in the blood? Why is a serum iron test performed?
Serum or plasma iron - the concentration of iron in serum or plasma, not including iron in hemoglobin and iron in ferritin. Blood plasma is the liquid part of the blood 60%
) of light yellow color, not containing formed elements ( erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes, lymphocytes and others). Blood plasma consists of water and proteins, gases, minerals, fats and others dissolved in it. Blood serum is a blood plasma that does not contain fibrinogen, a blood protein involved in the formation of a blood clot. Iron in the blood cannot be in a free state, as it is very toxic. Therefore, the level of iron in carrier proteins, transferrin, is determined. To do this, with the help of special chemical reactions, iron is isolated from the complex with transferrin. The research material is deoxygenated blood. More often, a colorimetric method is used to analyze the concentration of serum iron. The essence of the method is to determine the concentration of iron in serum by the color intensity of the solution. The color intensity of the solution is directly proportional to the concentration of the colored chemical trace element. This method allows you to determine the concentration of trace elements with high accuracy.
Indications for the analysis of serum iron concentration are:
- diagnostics, differential diagnostics ( distinguishing one pathology from another with similar symptoms) and control of anemia treatment ( a pathological condition characterized by a low content of hemoglobin in red blood cells);
- diagnosis of hemochromatosis ( hereditary disease characterized by a violation of iron metabolism);
- diagnostics of intoxication ( poisoning) iron;
- malnutrition, hypovitaminosis ( lack of vitamins);
- various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in which the normal absorption of iron is disrupted;
- detected deviations in the results of a general blood test ( erythrocytes, hematocrit);
- bleeding various etiologies (profuse prolonged menstruation, bleeding gums, bleeding from hemorrhoids, gastric or duodenal ulcers and others).
- assessment of iron stores in the body;
- calculating the percentage of saturation of transferrin with iron ( that is, determining the concentration of iron carried by the blood);
- differential diagnosis of anemia;
- control of anemia treatment;
- control of treatment with iron preparations;
- diagnostics genetic diseases iron metabolism disorders.
The norm of iron in the blood, depending on age and gender
| Age | Floor | Norm of iron |
| female | 5.1 - 22.6 µmol/l | |
| male | 5.6 - 19.9 µmol/l | |
| from 1 to 12 months | female | 4.6 - 22.5 µmol/l |
| male | 4.9 - 19.6 µmol/l | |
| 1 to 4 years | female | 4.6 - 18.2 µmol/l |
| male | 5.1 - 16.2 µmol/l | |
| 4 to 7 years old | female | 5.0 - 16.8 µmol/l |
| male | 4.6 - 20.5 µmol/l | |
| 7 to 10 years old | female | 5.5 - 18.7 µmol/l |
| male | 4.9 - 17.3 µmol/l | |
| 10 to 13 years old | female | 5.8 - 18.7 µmol/l |
| male | 5.0 – 20.0 µmol/l | |
| 13 to 16 years old | female | 5.5 - 19.5 µmol/l |
| male | 4.8 - 19.8 µmol/l | |
| 16 to 18 years old | female | 5.8 - 18.3 µmol/l |
| male | 4.9 - 24.8 µmol/l | |
| > 18 years old | female | 8.9 - 30.4 µmol/l |
| male | 11.6 - 30.4 µmol/l |
When receiving tests, the doctor focuses on the gender and age of the patient. The results obtained may be within the normal range, below or above the norm. If the iron level is below normal, the patient has an iron deficiency. If the level of iron is higher than normal, there is an excess of iron in the patient's body. When interpreting the results obtained, many factors should be taken into account - nutrition, medication, the woman's menstrual cycle, and others. Do not forget about the daily fluctuation of the concentration of iron in the blood. Thus, the maximum daily concentration of iron in the blood is observed in the morning. In women, in the period before and during menstruation, the concentration of iron in the blood is higher than after the end of menstruation. Therefore, an analysis for serum iron should be taken after the cessation of menstruation. Random fluctuations in the level of iron in the blood can also be observed, for example, with a sharp increase in the consumption of meat in the patient's diet.
Drugs that increase the level of iron in the blood are:
- acetylsalicylic acid ( aspirin) – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent;
- methotrexate - anticancer agent;
- multivitamins containing iron;
- oral contraceptives - birth control pills;
- antibiotics - methicillin, chloramphenicol, cefotaxime;
- preparations containing estrogens ( female sex hormones) .
- acetylsalicylic acid in high doses - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent;
- allopurinol - a drug that lowers the level of uric acid in the blood;
- cortisol - glucocorticoid hormone;
- metformin - tableted hypoglycemic agent ( blood sugar lowering);
- corticotropin - adrenocorticotropic hormone drug;
- cholestyramine - lipid-lowering agent lowering blood fat levels);
- asparaginase - antitumor agent;
- preparations containing testosterone - male sex hormone.
How to prepare for a serum iron test?
To avoid distortion of the obtained results of the concentration of iron in the blood serum, it is necessary to properly prepare the patient.For proper preparation To diagnose the level of iron in the blood, it is necessary:
- a week before the test for serum iron, stop taking medications and complexes of iron-containing vitamins;
- postpone the analysis of serum iron for several days after blood transfusion ( blood transfusions);
- explain to the patient that for the analysis of serum iron it will be necessary to take a blood sample, explain the essence of the procedure, warn about unpleasant sensations when applying a tourniquet and puncture ( piercing) veins;
- describe the daily routine and nutrition that the patient must follow.
- taking the test blood on an empty stomach;
- exclusion of smoking, drinking alcohol and fatty foods, physical activity 12 hours before analysis;
- collection of test material prior to any diagnostic procedures (radiography, computed tomography);
- the absence of viral and inflammatory diseases in the patient.
What should be the level of serum iron during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a very important and difficult period in the life of any woman. At this time, serious physiological changes occur in the body. The fetus uses the mother's micronutrients and macronutrients as "building blocks". Therefore, it is very important for a woman to monitor her diet. It must be balanced and ensure the intake of vitamins, minerals, proteins and other substances in sufficient quantities. Usually, the need for these substances exceeds the daily allowance of a non-pregnant woman, as they are used for the functional needs of the mother and fetus. The reasons for the increased need for iron during pregnancy are:
- an increase in blood volume by 50%, and, consequently, a 2-fold increase in the need for iron for the production of hemoglobin ( iron-containing protein that transports blood);
- significant iron intake from the mother's iron depot on the formation of the placenta, erythrocytes ( red blood cells that carry oxygen) fetus;
- Iron-deficiency anemia ( anemia - a condition characterized by low levels of hemoglobin in the blood) before pregnancy, which exacerbates iron deficiency in pregnancy.
The normal level of serum iron in pregnant women is from 13 µmol/l to 30 µmol/l. The daily need for iron in pregnant women is up to 30 - 38 milligrams.
For a pregnant woman and her unborn baby, both iron deficiency and its excess are equally dangerous. If the body of a pregnant woman does not receive the necessary daily intake of iron, then its reserves are quickly depleted. This leads to iron deficiency serum iron level) and the development of iron deficiency anemia ( pathology in which the level of hemoglobin in the blood decreases). As a result of anemia, both the fetus and the mother suffer from a lack of oxygen. Iron deficiency anemia leads to a weakened immune system, increased fatigue, dizziness, weakness. The development of iron deficiency anemia in the first or second trimester of pregnancy significantly increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, stillbirth or death of the newborn.
Also, iron deficiency in the mother contributes to the development of iron deficiency anemia in the newborn, which can adversely affect his mental and physical development. During childbirth, a woman can lose a large amount of blood. If there was already an iron deficiency before, then bleeding can lead to the development of severe anemia and the need for a blood transfusion. Iron deficiency has been scientifically proven to be one of the causes of postpartum depression.
Excess iron ( serum iron level > 30 µmol/l) also negatively affects the course of pregnancy and the health of the fetus. Excess iron can be observed in hereditary diseases with impaired iron metabolism and excessive intake of iron in the body ( uncontrolled intake of iron-containing drugs). Excessive iron levels in the blood of a pregnant woman can lead to the development of gestational diabetes ( pathology in which high content blood sugar of a pregnant woman), preeclampsia ( pregnancy complications after 20 weeks, characterized by high blood pressure and high protein in the urine), miscarriage. Therefore, iron supplements should be taken under the strict supervision of a physician.
Pregnancy iron deficiency is much more common than iron overload. Iron deficiency can be compensated by diet, rich in iron or taking iron supplements. Pregnant women should have red meat in their diet richest source of iron), rabbit meat, chicken, turkey, as well as cereals, legumes, spinach, cabbage, cereals and others.
If the intake of iron with food does not satisfy the needs of the body, the doctor may additionally prescribe iron supplements. Iron preparations are taken under strict control of serum iron. The dosage of drugs is selected by the attending physician, depending on the laboratory parameters of the patient ( serum iron, hemoglobin). Pregnant women are often prescribed calcium supplements that impair iron absorption. Therefore, during the period of treatment with iron preparations, it is worth canceling or limiting the use of calcium preparations. If this is not possible, then calcium should be taken between meals and iron supplements.
Iron preparations prescribed during pregnancy are:
- Sorbifer durules. In a tablet this drug contains 100 milligrams of iron and vitamin C to improve iron absorption in the intestines. During pregnancy, in order to prevent iron deficiency, 1 tablet per day is prescribed, for treatment - 1 tablet in the morning and evening.
- Ferroplex. Dragees contain 50 milligrams of iron and vitamin C. Take 2 tablets 3 times a day.
- Totem. Totem is a solution containing 50 milligrams of iron. For prophylaxis, it is prescribed orally 1 ampoule per day from 4 months of pregnancy. In large doses, totem is prescribed only for laboratory-confirmed iron deficiency anemia. It is prescribed 2-4 ampoules per day.
- Fenyuls. The capsules contain 45 milligrams of iron. For prevention, take 1 capsule per day from the 14th week of pregnancy. After taking the drug daily for 2 weeks, take a week break, and then continue taking the drug again.
What diseases lead to a decrease in the level of iron in the blood?
Many diseases, habits and dietary habits affect the concentration of iron in the blood, namely, reduce its level in the blood. Symptoms of iron deficiency in the body
Iron deficiency leads to a deterioration in the functioning of organs and systems, a lack of oxygen, and a disruption in the synthesis of enzymes and hormones. But iron deficiency does not immediately lead to symptoms. At first, the body uses iron from its reserves. Gradually, after depletion of iron stores, symptoms begin to appear, which become more pronounced over time. There are latent ( hidden) and clear signs lack of iron in the blood. Latent signs appear with a slight iron deficiency. Often the serum iron level is normal or close to the borderline lower value ( women - 8.9 µmol/l, men - 11.6 µmol/l). In this case, the body uses iron reserves.
Symptoms of the latent stage of iron deficiency in the blood are:
- decrease in working capacity;
- increased fatigue;
- severe malaise, weakness;
- heart palpitations ( tachycardia);
- increased irritability;
- depression;
- headaches and dizziness;
- difficulty swallowing;
- glossitis ( inflammation of the tongue);
- hair loss;
- fragility of nails;
- pallor skin;
- deterioration of memory, attention, thought processes, learning ability;
- frequent infections respiratory tract;
Symptoms of severe iron deficiency are:
- decrease in immunity the patient is often ill with viral and respiratory diseases;
- low body temperature, chilliness body temperature is below 36.6 ° C, the person feels uncomfortable when low temperatures, he has constantly cold extremities;
- deterioration of memory, attention, learning rates - with iron deficiency, it is difficult for the patient to concentrate, remember information, there is frequent forgetfulness;
- decrease in performance the patient constantly feels tired, "broken", even after good sleep;
- disruption of the gastrointestinal tract loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, pain in the stomach, constipation, flatulence ( excessive accumulation of gases in the intestinal lumen), the appearance of belching and heartburn;
- fatigue, muscle weakness the patient observes increased fatigue even after a short activity, also notes weakness in the muscles during physical exertion and at rest;
- neurological disorders - increased irritability, irritability, depressive states, tearfulness, migrating pains ( head, heart);
- delayed mental and physical development in children - iron deficiency leads to oxygen starvation, which negatively affects the central nervous system of the child, the development of cardiovascular vascular system and others;
- geophagy ( food perversion) – with iron deficiency, a person may begin to eat inedible objects - chalk, earth, sand;
- dryness, pallor of the skin and mucous membranes - the skin becomes dry, begins to peel off, cracks and pronounced wrinkles appear, wounds form in the corners of the mouth ( cheilitis), stomatitis ( inflammation of the mucosal epithelium oral cavity );
- dryness, brittleness of nails and hair - with a lack of iron, the hair becomes dull, brittle, lose shine and volume, nails exfoliate and break easily;
- dizziness, loss of consciousness fainting) – as a result of a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood, the body suffers from oxygen starvation, this especially affects the brain, which is manifested by dizziness, short-term loss consciousness, darkening in the eyes;
- shortness of breath, palpitations iron deficiency leads to a lack of oxygen, which the body tries to compensate for by increasing breathing and heart rate.
How to increase the level of iron in the blood?
Before starting therapy for iron deficiency in the body, it is necessary to determine the cause of its occurrence and eliminate it. If the cause of the loss of iron is not eliminated, then the treatment will bring only a temporary effect. This will lead to the need for repeated courses of treatment. Before the use of iron-containing drugs or changes in nutrition, it is necessary to undergo an examination, pass an analysis for serum iron. If at laboratory research confirmed iron deficiency, the doctor will individually select the treatment tactics for the patient. The principle of treatment will depend on the indicators of the level of iron, the patient's condition ( e.g. pregnancy), comorbidities ( in some diseases, increased iron loss can be observed).
With a slight lack of iron, it will be enough to adjust the patient's diet by increasing the amount of iron-rich foods in the diet. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the cost of iron in the patient's body. In some cases ( with chronic bleeding, pregnancy, breastfeeding, intensive growth) the amount of iron coming from food may not be enough. Then the therapy is supplemented with the intake of iron preparations.
In severe iron deficiency, treatment begins immediately with medication in the form of capsules, tablets and dragees. In especially severe cases, iron preparations are prescribed intravenously under the strict supervision of the attending physician.
Diet for iron deficiency
With food, heme and non-heme iron enters the human body. Heme iron ( source is hemoglobin) is several times more efficiently absorbed by the body, unlike non-heme. Heme iron is obtained from meat products, while non-heme iron is obtained from plant products.Sources of heme iron
| Product (100 grams) | (mg) |
| beef | 2,7 |
| pork | 1,7 |
| turkey | 3,7 – 4,0 |
| chicken | 1,6 – 3,0 |
| veal | 2,8 |
| pork liver | 19,0 |
| veal liver | 5,5 – 11,0 |
| beef kidneys | 7,0 |
| sea fish | 1,2 |
| a heart | 6,3 |
| mackerel | 2,4 |
| cod | 0,7 |
| shellfish | 4,2 |
| mussels | 4,5 |
| oysters | 4,1 |
Sources of non-heme iron
| Product (100 grams) | Iron content in milligrams (mg) |
| apricots | 2,2 – 4,8 |
| peas | 8,0 – 9,5 |
| beans | 5,6 |
| buckwheat | 8,0 |
| nuts ( almond, hazelnut) | 6,1 |
| dried mushrooms | 35 |
| dried pear | 13 |
| beans | 11,0 – 12,5 |
| apples | 0,6 – 2,3 |
| dried apples | 15,0 |
| rose hip | 11,0 |
For better assimilation iron is necessary:
- Eat foods rich in vitamin C, B vitamins and folic acid. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron in the intestines by 6 times. Therefore, for better absorption of this trace element, it is necessary to increase the intake of foods rich in vitamin C. These foods include spinach, cauliflower, citrus fruits, broccoli and others. Sources folic acid are peanuts, almonds, walnuts, flax seeds and others. B vitamins are found in dairy products, nuts, yeast, egg yolk.
- Reduce tea and coffee intake. Tannin, which is found in tea and coffee, significantly reduces the absorption of iron. Therefore, you should not consume these drinks immediately after a meal, as they reduce iron absorption by 62%. Do not forget that the body normally absorbs only 10% of the iron that comes from food.
- Limit your intake of calcium-rich foods and calcium supplements. Calcium also slows down the absorption of iron by the human body. Therefore, in the treatment of iron deficiency conditions, one should limit the consumption of hard cheese, milk, sesame seeds, greens and others. Also, if the patient is taking calcium supplements, then it should be canceled or limited. If this is not possible, calcium should be taken between meals.
Iron preparations
If it is not possible to increase the level of serum iron with the help of the diet, then the patient is prescribed iron medications. The doctor selects the dosage and duration of the course of treatment individually. Therapy with iron preparations should be carried out under the control of the level of serum iron, determined in the laboratory.Iron supplements for iron deficiency
| A drug | Dose, duration of treatment |
| Maltofer | Solution for oral administration. For the treatment of iron deficiency, take 1 vial ( 100 mg iron) 1 to 3 times a day. Duration of treatment - from 3 to 5 months. After that, continue to take 1 vial per day for 1 to 3 months to restore iron stores. For the prevention of iron deficiency, take 1 vial for 1 to 2 months. |
| Biofer | For the treatment of iron deficiency, take 1 tablet ( 100 mg iron) 1 to 3 times a day for 3 to 5 months. Then, for several months, take 1 tablet per day to restore iron stores. For the prevention of iron deficiency, take 1 tablet for 1 to 2 months. Contains folic acid, which improves iron absorption. |
| Ferro-foil | For the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, take 1 capsule ( 37 mg iron) 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is from 3 to 16 or more weeks ( depending on the severity of iron deficiency). For prevention - 1 capsule 3 times a day for a month. Contains vitamin B 12 and folic acid. |
| Ferretab | When treating, use from 1 to 3 capsules ( 50 mg iron) per day. Treatment is continued until the level of iron in the blood is normalized. Then continue maintenance therapy for 4 weeks. Contains folic acid. |
| Hemopher | Take orally between meals, 46 drops ( a drop contains 2 mg of iron) 2 times a day with juice or water. The duration of treatment is at least 2 months. |
| Sorbifer durules | Inside 1 tablet ( 40 mg iron) 1-2 times a day. If necessary, the dose is increased to 3-4 tablets per day in 2 divided doses. The course of treatment is 3 - 4 months. Contains ascorbic acid. |
| Tardyferon | Inside 1 tablet ( 80 mg iron) 2 times a day before meals or during meals. The duration of treatment is from 3 to 6 months. |
| Ferrum | The injection form of this drug is used only intramuscularly. First, a test dose is administered. If there is no response, the entire dose is administered. Assign 1 - 2 ampoules ( 100 mg iron) per day. |
| Venofer | Used intravenously. Intramuscular administration is not allowed. Administer slowly after a test dose. The dose is selected individually depending on the severity of iron deficiency. One ampoule contains 40 mg of iron. |
| Cosmopher | Drug for intramuscular and intravenous administration. One ampoule contains 100 mg of iron. The dose and duration of treatment are selected individually. |
| Totem | Solution for oral administration. 1 ampoule contains 50 mg of iron. Assign 1 ampoule inside 2-3 times a day for a course of treatment up to six months. |
| Hematogen | In the form of chewable lozenges or tablets. The iron content varies. Take 1 - 2 lozenges 2 - 3 times a day. |
Iron preparations are prescribed intravenously for extremely severe iron deficiency conditions. Also indications for intravenous administration are diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in which the absorption of iron is significantly reduced. First, a test is administered - a dose for exclusion adverse reactions. The introduction of the drug is carried out only in the presence of a doctor.
For the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency conditions in children, syrups, tiles and chewing plates are used.
What does an elevated iron level in the blood indicate?
The level of serum iron is considered elevated if it is more than the upper acceptable limit - 30.4 µmol / l. An increase in the level can be observed with various pathologies, as well as with an overdose of iron preparations. An increase in iron levels occurs when the intake of iron in the body exceeds its consumption and excretion. Depending on the cause of the appearance, excess iron is divided into primary and secondary. The primary excess of iron is caused by a hereditary pathology - hemochromatosis. Diseases of the internal organs and many external factors lead to a secondary excess of iron.
Elevated levels of iron in the blood can be observed with:
- Hemochromatosis. Hemochromatosis - hereditary disease, in which the normal metabolism of iron is disturbed with its accumulation in organs and tissues. The accumulation of iron in the organs leads to a violation of their structure and function. Subsequently, various diseases develop - cirrhosis of the liver ( replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue), arthritis, diabetes and others.
- Various types of anemia ( hemolytic, hypoplastic, aplastic, sideroblastic and others). An increase in iron content at various types anemia occurs for many reasons. It depends on the type of anemia. For example, with hemolytic anemia, there is an increased destruction of red blood cells. In this case, iron from red blood cells enters the blood. With sideroblastic anemia, the utilization of iron by the bone marrow for the synthesis of hemoglobin is impaired.
- Thalassemias. Thalassemia is a hereditary pathology characterized by impaired synthesis of components ( chains) structures of hemoglobin. As a result, less iron is consumed for the synthesis of hemoglobin.
- Acute poisoning iron. Acute iron poisoning occurs with a significant overdose of iron preparations - taking up to 200 milligrams of iron. This may lead to uncontrolled reception iron preparations, self-treatment, intake of iron-containing preparations by children in large quantities ( whole package).
- liver diseases ( viral hepatitis, liver necrosis), spleen, pancreas. Diseases of various organs lead to metabolic disorders, malabsorption of vitamins and microelements, hormonal disruptions. One of the consequences is an excessive accumulation of iron in the blood.
- Iron metabolism disorders. Various diseases and pathological processes can lead to impaired iron metabolism. This can manifest itself as a decrease in its level, and an increase.
- Excessive intake of iron in the body. Excessive intake of iron in the body is possible with self-treatment iron preparations. Also, with a normal intake of iron in the body and a violation of its metabolism, an increase in serum iron can be observed.
- Premenstrual period. An increase in the level of iron in the premenstrual period is a variant of the norm. Therefore, it is better to take an analysis for serum iron after the end of menstruation.
- Frequent blood transfusions. With frequent blood transfusions and a short interval between them, an increase in the level of serum iron is possible.
Symptoms of high iron levels in the blood are:
- nausea, vomiting, heartburn, constipation or diarrhea;
- damage to the intestinal mucosa;
- loss of appetite, weight loss;
- apathy, decreased performance;
- the appearance of pain, swelling in the joints;
- occurrence of arthritis inflammatory process in the joints), atherosclerosis ( deposits of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of the vessel), diabetes ( elevated blood sugar);
- decreased immunity;
- hyperpigmentation of the skin, gray-brown shade of the skin and mucous membranes;
- hair loss;
- muscle pain;
- delay in physical and mental development child;
- decreased libido ( sex drive).
How to lower the level of iron in the blood?
Excess iron in the blood can lead to many diseases - myocardial infarction, liver failure, diabetes, arthritis, cancer. In severe cases, even death. Therefore, with a laboratory-confirmed excess of iron in the blood, measures must be taken to reduce its level. To lower the level of iron in the blood will help:
- The use of special drugs. Drugs that accelerate the excretion of iron include hepatoprotectors, zinc preparations, iron-binding drugs - deferoxamine ( desferal), calcium tetacine.
- Compliance with a special diet. With an excess of iron, foods rich in this trace element are excluded from the diet. These are meat, beans, dried mushrooms, dried apples and pears, seafood and others. Also, do not take vitamins that improve iron absorption - B vitamins, vitamin C, folic acid. It is recommended to consume more foods that impair iron absorption - coffee, tea, foods rich in calcium, calcium and zinc supplements.
- Intermittent bleeding. The procedure consists in taking about 350 milliliters of blood from the patient weekly. If desired, the patient can become a blood donor.
- Hirudotherapy ( leech treatment). Leech treatment can also help lower iron levels in the blood. This happens as a result of feeding leeches with human blood. In this case, hemoglobin and iron in its composition are lost.
- Exchange transfusion. Exchange transfusion is used for severe iron poisoning. The procedure consists in the simultaneous taking of blood from the patient's bloodstream and the transfusion of the donor's blood.
Why is hemoglobin low when serum iron levels are normal?
In some pathological conditions, the hemoglobin level may be lowered during normal or elevated level serum iron. In these cases, anemia a condition characterized by low levels of hemoglobin in the blood) develops with sufficient intake of iron in the body. When does this happen, and is it dangerous for human health? Low level hemoglobin affects all human systems and organs in the form of oxygen starvation of cells. And in the future, this can lead to metabolic disorders in the tissues of the body. But why, at a normal level of iron in the body, does not produce enough hemoglobin? One of the reasons for low hemoglobin with a normal level of serum iron is the lack of vitamin B 12 and folic acid in the body, which are involved in the formation of red blood cells.
The method of treatment is intramuscular injection solution of vitamin B 12 at a dose of 500-1000 mcg daily for 10 days, and then the use of the drug 2-3 times a month with preventive purpose. Folic acid is used at a dose of 50 - 60 mg per day.
Another reason for the development of anemia with a normal iron content is the problem of an insufficient number of red blood cells or the deficiency of hemoglobin protein.
The reason for the insufficient number of red blood cells or the inferiority of the hemoglobin protein are:
- Sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia is a congenital disease associated with a violation of the structure of hemoglobin, in which it acquires a characteristic crescent shape. Clinical manifestations sickle cell anemia are thrombosis of vessels of various organs with sickle-shaped erythrocytes, hemolytic anemia, pallor and yellowness of the skin, repeated thrombosis of various organs, splenomegaly ( abnormal enlargement of the spleen), hepatomegaly ( enlargement of the liver), shortness of breath, general weakness and malaise. Sickle cell anemia is an incurable disease. Symptomatic treatment for a crisis is adequate hydration ( saturating the body with fluid), transfusion of erythrocyte mass ( blood product made up of red blood cells), as well as intravenous administration antibiotics.
- The destruction of red blood cells under the influence of certain chemicals. The destruction of red blood cells occurs when exposed to compounds of arsenic, lead, nitrites, amines, some organic acids, foreign sera, insect and snake venoms. The mechanism of the damaging effect is due to the destruction of erythrocyte membranes and the ingress of a large amount of hemoglobin into the plasma. This leads to intense protein breakdown with subsequent damage to the excretory organs - the kidneys and liver. First aid consists in the introduction of specific antidotes, for example, for snake bites - anti-snake sera.
- Diseases of the hematopoietic organs. An insufficient number of red blood cells can be observed in some diseases of the hematopoietic organs, in particular in blood cancer - lymphosarcoma, lymphogranulomatosis and others. In such cases, pathological cells develop faster and replace the precursor cells of erythrocytes and other blood cells.
What are the consequences of iron deficiency?
About 30% of the world's population suffers from a lack of iron in the body. And at the same time, about 20% do not even know about it, having a latent ( hidden) iron deficiency. Why is this trace element important for the human body? Iron is part of a very important protein for the body - hemoglobin, which plays the role of an oxygen carrier from the lungs to all organs and tissues. Iron deficiency leads to iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is a condition characterized by impaired hemoglobin synthesis due to insufficient iron content. With a lack of oxygen, chronic oxygen starvation tissues and organs at the cellular level. This leads to functional and structural changes in these organs. Iron is also part of many enzyme systems, is found in the cells of the liver, spleen, muscles, and bone marrow. That is why its deficiency affects the general well-being of a person - there is a general weakness, malaise, dizziness, decreased performance ( as a result of metabolic disorders). Functional and regenerative ( restorative) the ability of organs and tissues, the production of enzymes and hormones decreases. Immunity is noticeably reduced, which is manifested by frequent colds.
At the level of the skin and their appendages, iron deficiency manifests itself in pallor and dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, which leads to dermatitis and eczema ( inflammatory and allergic skin diseases), stomatitis ( ulcerative lesions oral mucosa), cheilites ( cracks in the corners of the mouth).
With iron deficiency, the patient often suffers from bronchitis ( inflammation of the bronchi), tracheitis ( inflammatory processes in the trachea), rhinitis ( inflammation of the nasal mucosa). At the level of the cardiovascular system, stabbing pains appear in the heart, reduced arterial pressure, shortness of breath on exertion.
With a lack of iron, thinning and atrophy of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract occurs, which is manifested by pain or burning in the tongue, taste perversion ( patients eat chalk, clay, earth, lime), the acidity of gastric juice decreases with the formation of erosions and ulcers.
Muscle weakness due to iron deficiency leads to false calls on urination, urinary incontinence when coughing, laughing, physical exertion.
In children, chronic iron deficiency anemia leads to growth retardation, impaired memory, attention, learning difficulties, nocturnal diuresis ( spontaneous urination during sleep).
In pregnant women, iron deficiency leads to premature birth, miscarriage, stillbirth.
Iron is a vital trace element. Its deficiency or excess leads to the defeat of absolutely all organs and tissues. This negatively affects the quality of human life. In some cases, iron deficiency can lead to irreversible consequences. And severe cases of excess or lack of iron can lead to death.
Of the numerous chemical elements that form the human body (almost all periodic table Dmitri Mendeleev!), a special role is assigned to iron.
It is found mainly in erythrocytes, red blood cells, or rather, in their component, hemoglobin.
There is a small amount of iron in the plasma. In general, an adult body accounts for 4 to 7 grams of this metal. If its level falls short of the norm, the person is in a painful condition, the name of which is anemia. If, for some reason, iron is more than the established norm, this is also a cause for serious concern.
So it turns out that between the presence of the required amount of iron in the body and the state of human health, you can safely put an equal sign.
Iron is part of most enzymes, is the main component of hemoglobin. Without it, the hematopoietic process and respiration, various vital oxidative and reducing reactions are impossible. This is what happens to the body with iron deficiency:
- the development of anemia (in everyday life the term "anemia" is used);
- weakening of the immune system;
- increased risk of infections;
- developmental delay (including mental);
- fast fatiguability;
- depression;
- skin problems (eg, eczema, dermatitis);
- drops in blood pressure.
And here's what happens if the norm of iron in the blood is exceeded:
- kidney inflammation;
- liver disease;
- leukemia;
- some types of anemia caused by iron poisoning.
Where does iron come from in a living organism? It turns out that most of it (95 percent) is in the body all the time. Experts call this condition the term "recirculation", when iron from old red blood cells passes to young ones. This once well-oiled mechanism tells us that there seems to be no reason for concern.
However, there are still 5 percent left that must somehow be “collected”, they must come from outside (for example, with food). Is it necessary to control this process? Yes. After all, sometimes it happens that for one reason or another, the body may need an increased "portion" of useful metal, and this is usually associated with various diseases, quite serious.
That's why it's so important to use laboratory tests receive reliable data on the level of iron in the blood.
This is done using blood serum tests.
According to experts, serum iron is the main indicator that reflects the presence of metal in the body. A simpler analysis (by blood taken from a finger) will make it possible to assess only the level of hemoglobin. All the details about the gland itself can only be obtained by examining the blood taken from a vein.
Pregnant women and people recovering from major surgical interventions are usually the object of close attention of physicians. It is their indicators that most often do not correspond to the normative ones. Interestingly, the amount of iron in the blood differs in people of different sex and age and can change even during the day.
The generally accepted unit for measuring the amount of iron in blood serum is micromoles per liter (µmol/l).
Among women
For adult women, the norm of iron in the blood is from 9 to 30 µmol / l. As for hemoglobin, here indicators of 110-150 g / l are considered the norm. The female body, unlike the male body, is most susceptible to various changes due to its physiology.
Take at least menstrual period when a woman experiences quite a lot of blood loss for several days. Certain changes occur during pregnancy. Objective age-related problems begin in women, as a rule, after fifty, when the blood thickens and the hemoglobin level deviates from the norm, and in one direction or another.
In general, the female body, unlike the male, needs iron. twice as big. And it is in women that the manifestations of iron deficiency are most pronounced. This:
- fragility of hair and nails;
- indigestion;
- urinary incontinence (especially during laughter, sneezing);
- chronic fatigue;
- blueness of the lips.
Women are much more likely than men to exhaust themselves with various diets, and when for some reason they refuse food that could provide the body with iron, this negatively affects their health.
For example, if a woman does not deny herself meat products, then her body will absorb about twenty percent of the iron that comes with this food. But vegetarianism often turns into iron deficiency.
If a woman adheres to a milk diet, then the situation is even more complicated: there is no iron in milk at all.
To get back to normal important indicator, you must first pass medical examination, change your menu, and maybe even your lifestyle. Quit bad habits like smoking. Perhaps the specialist will appoint drug treatment, perhaps, will agree with your willingness to use folk recipes.
In men
The amount of iron is greater due to the constant physical exertion that the representatives of the stronger sex have to experience.
And men are more likely to go in for sports, and power sports, which also does not go unnoticed. It also affects iron levels in the blood. male hormone testosterone.
An important feature: if the quantitative indicator of iron in women fluctuates throughout life (such is female nature), then in men it is practically unchanged over the years, so any deviations from the norm should be analyzed. For example, doctors noticed that men living in the highlands of the country have a slightly higher hemoglobin level than the norm. The explanation for this fact is the lack of oxygen in the air.
With age (after fifty), the amount of iron in the blood of a man becomes less, this is a natural course of events. However, if serious changes have occurred, this must certainly be sorted out by doing the appropriate research.
Should be especially alert excess iron in the blood. Iron is a strong oxidant, when its level “rolls over”, iron, creating chemical compounds with free radicals in the body, provokes accelerated aging of cells, and hence the entire human body. That's where the heart problems come from young age and "rejuvenated" heart attacks. In addition, when combined with oxygen, our useful metal forms dangerous free radicals, which give impetus to the development of malignant tumors.
It is interesting that, approaching old age, women and men begin to experience similar problems with health, since their bodies no longer have such sharp differences (women go through menopause). Iron begins to accumulate at the same rate, and not only men, but also women are becoming a target for various cardiovascular diseases.
The inherited disease hemochromatosis (also called bronze diabetes) is associated with an excess of iron. As a rule, men are ill. The essence of the problem is that the intestine cannot regulate the flow of iron into the body, does not create natural barriers in its path.
Because of this, all the metal from food is fed directly into the blood, and then settles in various organs, most of all in the liver. To paraphrase a well-known aphorism, “people die because of metal”, it sometimes accumulates a hundred times more than the norm. Even outwardly, the problem manifests itself in the unusual bronze coloration of the patient's skin. modern medicine, fortunately, knows how to deal with this disease.
During pregnancy
During pregnancy to the expectant mother one and a half times more dietary iron than before.
The reason is obvious - it is necessary to nourish not only your own body, but also the developing fetus. The problem is especially acute in the second half of the gestation period, since it is at this time that the so-called “iron depot” begins to form in the child. This means that for the normal course of all processes, the amount of iron in the blood must be more actively replenished.
For physicians, this means the need for regular testing and strict monitoring of possible changes in the body of the expectant mother. They try to work proactively - that is, to prevent the development of future mother anemia, dangerous for both the baby and the woman (these can be pathologies in the development of the fetus and premature birth).
Iron preparations will also be required after childbirth, when the woman will feed the baby breast milk sharing with the baby their own reserves of trace elements.
By age
Older people are more likely suffer from iron deficiency in the body, and this is quite understandable: there is a natural degradation of hematopoietic functions, in addition various diseases cause blood loss - for example, infections and inflammations, sores and erosions.
The approach to nutrition changes if, for example, old man prefers dairy products as lighter, he deprives himself of the most important trace elements.
Recent research data provide alarming statistics: due to anemia associated with iron deficiency, more and more old people suffer from dementia, as oxygen does not enter the brain as actively as before. The risk of dementia increases by more than 40 percent.
The problem will not be so acute if you get one gram of iron daily with food. In more complex cases, the doctor may prescribe the necessary iron-containing preparations. However, experts emphasize: not allowed to self-medicate, iron is not the element about which it can be said that the more it is, the better. Everything should be in moderation, or rather, in the norm. And any dietary supplements or iron-containing pills taken uncontrollably can cause irreparable troubles.
The prescribed level of iron in the blood is the most important index, due to which various and numerous processes occurring in the human body are determined. Fe is the most important component of most enzymes, as well as the main constituent of hemoglobin.
The primary feature of this trace element is that it cannot be formed in an organism in which there are no organs capable of synthesizing iron. All people are dependent on the intake of this element into their bodies along with food.
On average, the body of an adult individual contains 2.5-3.5 grams of iron, of which approximately 70% is in the composition of hemoglobin. The remaining percentage is distributed in other types of proteins - hemosiderin and ferritin, most of which is concentrated in the spleen, liver, muscles. For example, their color is predetermined by the presence of this microelement in them.
For example, during the formation of ailments, the body tends to use its previously accumulated reserves.
The primary function of iron is:
- ensure the proper structure of the erythrocyte hemoglobin protein molecule in order to maintain a certain amount of oxygen in the body;
- communion to oxidative reactions in cells (helping oxygen uptake).
Without this substance, respiratory and hematopoietic processes, biological recovery processes with oxidative reactions are unable to function properly.
The required rate of iron in the blood of a healthy person is 2.5-3.5 grams and it is mainly concentrated in hemoglobin. The general current state of the body may depend on the hemoglobin index, and in case of a lack of iron in the blood, such an unpleasant ailment as iron deficiency anemia can occur. In the opposite case, an excess of iron, the list of possible diseases can be much more significant.
How is iron produced in the body?
Initially, with the help of transferrin carrier proteins, Fe molecules are connected in the upper region of the small intestine and, in a similar form, are delivered to the bone marrow sections, in which the process of continuous erythrocyte synthesis takes place. Thus, the microelement turns out to be part of the hemoglobin complex.
It has been established that Fe from protein foods can only be absorbed by the body by 25-40%, and speaking of carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables), this figure reaches 80%. With a lack of iron in the blood and the body as a whole, this can adversely affect the movement of oxygen by red blood cells from the lung tissues further through the organs, and such an undesirable process can contribute to the development of hypoxia or oxygen starvation.
Preparation for analysis
The rules for preparing for this study are the same for both women and men. The day before the analysis, it is advisable to protect yourself from the consumption of fatty and fried foods, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. 
It will not be superfluous to take a temporary pause in the reception medicines, should be avoided physical activity, sports training.
If a person is taking iron-based preparations, then it is worth stopping their use a couple of weeks before the study. Donate blood in the morning and on an empty stomach. For more complete and accurate results, venous blood is taken.
What can be determined by a blood test?
An indirect sign of violations in the iron content in the body can be changes in the hemoglobin index. Such a study can be carried out even in limited clinical laboratories. Performing such an action can prompt the attending physician for an effective treatment plan, preventive procedures, or it may demonstrate the need for more thorough examinations, including:
- analysis for the concentration of serum iron;
- general ability to combine iron;
- serum ferritin level.
For example, the ferritin index can demonstrate the supply of Fe in tissues and its measurement will reveal the body's ability to compensate for the deficiency autonomously. The set value is an indicator of 58-150 µg / l. The ability to combine iron is determined by the maximum number of this trace element that can be retained by blood proteins, and its proper value must be in the range of 50-84 µmol / l. The value may be reduced in case of an excess of iron.
Serum iron standard
Regulations may vary by gender and age category person. For example, at birth and during the first month, a person has the most significant iron in the blood, which reaches 17.9-44.8 µmol / l. Further, starting from the age of one year, this indicator begins to gradually decrease and equals from 7.16 to 17.9. Indicators in adolescents are usually equated to the standard of adults:
- men - from 11.64 to 30.43 µmol/l;
- women - 8.95-30.43 µmol / l.
Factors Affecting Micronutrient Deficiency
First of all, an insufficient amount of Fe in the body is usually associated with:
- a small number of iron-containing foods in the human diet;
- disorders in the work of the small intestine and the processes of assimilation;
- uncompensated increased consumption;
- an increase in demand, vitamin deficiency.
The primary products, thanks to which the human body is fed with iron, are meat and beets, buckwheat with walnuts, red wines, and chocolate are useful.
If a clear lack of such products is noticeable in the human diet, then this can lead to the most common pathology in this case - anemia (anemia), characteristic of vegetarians, women who like to get involved in modern so-called starvation diets.
Significantly increases the need for this trace element in people performing hard work, athletes. It is desirable for this category of citizens to consume more meat dishes, however, an inappropriate supply of vitamins can also cause anemia. Intestinal ailments that impair absorption favor faecal excretion of Fe ( chronic gastritis, enterocolitis with pancreatitis).
Significant blood loss can lead to a decrease in red blood cells, respectively, and iron. Often they are in the form of nasal, gastrointestinal and other blood loss. In addition, do not forget about the so-called chronic blood loss, for example, in women during heavy periods.
Iron level during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the fetus is able to take away from the mother's body a significant amount of iron, which is necessary for him to properly build his internal organs. If a woman does not compensate for such a loss, then she can develop iron deficiency anemia, and the general condition will only become more complicated due to breastfeeding.
The primary symptoms for such unpleasant processes can be considered:
- constant weakness with increased fatigue;
- a change in the taste of food;
- frequent dizziness, low blood pressure;
- pale skin and others.
In this and postpartum period, doctors advise adherence to the prescribed diet and overall lifestyle.
Consequences of low Fe
Today, the lack of Fe in the body or different types anemia is a very common diagnosis, most often affecting children with adolescents, young women and the elderly. The main factors influencing the decrease in the total level of iron are different nuances starting from accelerated growth in children and ending with various diseases. A low iron level can lead to:
- weak immune system with mental retardation and formation in children with adolescents;
- constant fatigue with chronic fatigue;
- weakness and atrophy of muscle mass;
- disorders in the cardiovascular system and digestive functions.
What affects and what threatens an increased level of iron?
A fair amount of iron does not always indicate pathology. It may occur:
- Due to the prolonged and uncontrolled treatment of anemia with special methods. It is desirable to coordinate any appointment, dosage, duration of the course throughout the entire period of therapy with your doctor.
- In cases where a person has to frequently perform a blood or red blood cell transfusion, during any shock states for extensive burns. In these situations, the percentage of serum iron can increase significantly.
The manifestation of an increased amount of iron can cause one or another type of anemia:
- Aplastic. It manifests itself in the form of a violation of the processes of building erythrocytes and other blood components under the influence of the use of drugs (sulfonamides, barbiturates, cytostatics), at the time of exacerbation of infections, acute intoxications.
- Hemolytic. It appears in the form of autoimmune destruction of its erythrocytes or the processes of violation are due to exposure to toxic elements.
- Anemia associated with vitamin B12 deficiency is often the result of surgical interventions associated with partial removal of the stomach, with peptic ulcer, malignant tumors.
- Anemia during a violation of the synthesis of heme or porphyrin associated with a deficiency of essential enzymes in the bone marrow.
In addition, ailments such as nephritis, hepatitis, and hemochromatosis can indicate an increased concentration of iron in the body.
In custody
In order for the iron in your body to be normal, you need to try to eat as many dishes containing meat as possible, eat buckwheat more often, eat vegetables, fruits, dark chocolate, avoid constant physical overwork, and be as nervous as possible. In the event of the previously described symptoms, a person should consult competent specialists and, possibly, conduct a blood test.
The materials are published for review and are not a prescription for treatment! We recommend that you contact a hematologist at your healthcare facility!
Iron is required component hematopoietic system contained in hemoglobin. It performs a transport function, as it carries oxygen throughout all systems and organs, and maintaining the required level is very important.
This essential trace element enters the inside of a person mainly in the blood. Iron stores are found in the spleen, bone marrow and liver. To maintain normal iron levels, it is necessary to eat foods in which its content is increased - soy, walnuts, meat, pomegranates, liver, peas, beans, buckwheat, millet and oatmeal.
The importance of iron in the body
Women, more than men, need this trace element, because during the regular they lose a large amount of it with the blood. Also, iron is needed during the period of nine months, because it supports the oxygen exchange in the mother and fetus. In children, it should also be contained in sufficient quantities, because their body is growing.
If the content of this required substance increased or decreased, then this can cause serious pathological conditions if they become permanent. For the early detection of such anomalies, biochemistry is prescribed.
Indications for the purpose of the analysis
For this procedure, venous blood is taken. Assign a study only for certain indications:
- If the doctor diagnoses anemia in a patient and must determine its type.
- In order to see violations in the patient's diet or to identify poisoning with iron-containing drugs.
- With avitaminosis.
- To identify permanent or sharp look infections.
- If the patient has a malfunction of the stomach or intestines.
- To see if the treatment is effective.
It is necessary to take the study in the morning, because it is at this time that the patient has a high content of this microelement in the blood. You should not eat for eight or twelve hours before the procedure. To determine the content of this microelement, a colorimetric method is used, which makes it possible to give an analysis of the amount of this substance in the human hematopoietic system with great accuracy.
Norm of indicators
The rate of iron in the blood primarily depends on whether the man or woman is undergoing the procedure, what is their weight and how old is the person who takes this study. For example, if we talk about the rate of iron in the blood for women, then it will be from 8.95 to 30.43 µmol / l. In men, the norm of serum iron ranges from 11.64 to 30.43 µmol / l. If we talk about children, then their norm is different and is calculated in the first case - up to a year, in the second - up to fourteen years.
If the content of this essential substance in the blood is below normal, then a person may develop weakness, shortness of breath, a feeling of constant fatigue, depression, muscles become weak, disturbances in the digestive system, the skin becomes dry and pale, and there is no appetite. As for children, they may have a developmental disorder or growth retardation. Such pathological condition later develops into iron deficiency anemia.
If the iron in the blood is above normal, then this is also a dangerous abnormal condition. This microelement will be concentrated in different organs and tissues of the body, which leads to disturbances in the work of the intestines and, accordingly, the activity of internal organs worsens.
Table of norms of iron in the blood
Such a pathology can cause the development of rheumatoid arthritis, diseases of the cardiovascular system and the liver, a malignant tumor of the breast, or diabetes mellitus.
Enhanced Level
If the indicator of this substance in the body is significantly high, then the reasons for this are:
- Poisoning with iron-containing drugs.
- Leukemia.
- Thalassemia.
- The body lacks folic acid, vitamins B6 and B12.
- Lead poisoning.
- Viral hepatitis, which are acute or permanent.
- If the process of removing iron from it was disrupted in the body. This disease is called hemochromatosis.
- anemia. Most often, it is hemolytic, pernicious or hypoplastic.
A high level of iron in the blood also occurs with frequent use of hormonal contraceptives or estrogen-containing drugs.
Reduced level
Causes low rate iron are the following pathological conditions:
- various infections.
- Iron-deficiency anemia.
- Renal failure, which has acquired a permanent form.
- Blood diseases.
- Viral hepatitis in a chronic form.
- Bleeding is acute or persistent.
- Lack of vitamin B12.
- If there is a sick need for this microelement in the body - the period of bearing a child and breastfeeding, in children - as a need for a growing organism.
- Disturbances in the functions of the thyroid gland.
- Cirrhosis of the liver.
Iron is an essential micronutrient. In large quantities, it is part of hemoglobin. In addition, iron is present in the blood serum and in cells. This substance enters the body with food. Iron levels in a person's blood can fluctuate throughout the day. Such changes occur depending on lifestyle, quality of sleep and nutrition. The norm of serum iron in human blood is 4-5 g. However, this indicator is not a standard. As a rule, the level of iron in the blood of men is higher than that of women. In children under one year, this figure is significantly below the norm.
What role does iron play in the body?
- Iron is part of the blood and most of the enzymes produced in the human body.
- This is an extremely important element that takes part in respiratory, immunobiological and redox processes.
- Iron is necessary for proteins and enzymes that control hematopoiesis, cholesterol metabolism, and DNA production.
- This microelement affects the functioning of the thyroid gland, regulates the level of its hormones.
- Iron is directly involved in the process of transporting oxygen molecules to cells and tissues.
- It has a beneficial effect on the liver. Regulates the process of removing toxins from the body.
- Stimulates the production of immunity.
- Iron is necessary for the normal development and growth of the body (especially in childhood).
- It has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair, nails.
A decrease or increase in the level of iron in the human body can lead to irreversible processes.
What is the norm of serum iron in the body?
The iron content in the blood is considered normal within the following limits.
- Children up to a year - 7-18 µmol / l.
- Children from one year to 14 years old - 9-21 µmol / l.
- Men of reproductive age - 12-30.5 µmol/l.
- Women - 9-30.5 µmol / l.
It is this norm of serum iron that ensures the proper functioning of all organs and systems of the body.
The difference in rates for adults of different sexes is due to the fact that women lose a large amount of blood every month. In addition, in girls, fluctuations in iron levels depend on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The highest content is noted during the formation corpus luteum, and the decrease occurs after the end of menstruation. With age, in both men and women, the level of this trace element drops significantly. Its concentration in the blood depends on many factors that doctors must consider when doing a serum iron test. Let us consider in more detail the features of this procedure.
Determination of the level of iron in the blood
With this analysis, blood is collected in the morning on an empty stomach. To obtain correct results, patients are advised to stop taking any medications containing iron a week before the procedure.
Iron deficiency in the body: causes
The norm of serum iron in the body of an adult ranges from 9 to 30.5 µmol / l. As a rule, patients are diagnosed with a deviation towards a decrease in its level.
Reasons for a decrease in the amount of iron in the blood:
- Some chronic diseases(tuberculosis, lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis).
- Iron deficiency anemia, which is a consequence of frequent blood loss (due to injuries, menstruation, operations). In addition, it can be caused by insufficient consumption of meat dishes. Malnutrition, the predominance of plant foods in the diet very often causes the development of iron deficiency in the blood.
- Destruction of erythrocytes.
- In the third trimester of pregnancy, a decrease in iron in the blood is considered the norm.
- Disorder of the functions of the digestive system, as a result of which useful microelements are not absorbed by the body.
- Oncological diseases, in particular, tumors of the intestines, kidneys, liver.
Iron deficiency symptoms
There are two types of iron deficiency: latent, which is diagnosed only through general analysis blood, and explicit. The second option is manifested by clearly expressed symptoms.
People who have serum iron below normal complain of frequent headaches, fatigue, blackouts in the eyes, tinnitus. In addition, there is blanching, dryness and peeling of the skin, cracks and seizures appear in the corners of the mouth.
Consequences of iron deficiency
Deficiency of this trace element in the human body leads to serious consequences.
- Violation of the functions of the digestive system (gastritis, diarrhea, constipation).
- Disorders of the liver, which ceases to cope with the detoxification of the body.
- A decrease in iron leads to disruption of the heart.
- Nervous disorders. Neuroses, apathy, sleep and memory disturbances may occur.
Increased serum iron: causes
An increase in serum iron levels can be the result of many pathological changes in the body. Among them, the following should be noted:
- Anemia, in which red blood cells take longer to form than in healthy people.
- Subcutaneous hemorrhages, in which a large amount of hemosiderin (a pigment containing iron) appears.
- Chronic renal failure.
- primary hemochromatosis. This is a congenital hereditary disease. Primary hemochromatosis is characterized increased speed absorption of iron into the intestinal wall. As a result, the body is oversaturated with this substance, which is deposited in the tissues in the form of an insoluble hemosiderin pigment.
- Secondary hemochromatosis is a consequence of poisoning with drugs containing large amounts of iron. In addition, this disease can occur as a result of frequent blood transfusions.
- Chronic liver diseases (hepatitis, steatosis, porphyria).
Symptoms and consequences of oversaturation of the body with iron
People whose serum iron is elevated notice yellowing of the skin and eyeballs, weight loss, and arrhythmia. Also, with an excess of this trace element in the body, an enlarged liver is diagnosed.
In patients suffering from primary hemochromatosis, there is increased skin pigmentation, disruption of organs endocrine system, disorders circulatory system(heart failure, myocardial dystrophy).
An increase in the level of iron in the blood serum leads to serious consequences, and in some cases becomes the cause of death. Deviation from the norm of the content of this element in the body can lead to an exacerbation of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, to the appearance malignant neoplasms in the organs of the digestive system.
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