These proteins prevent free iron from causing oxidative damage in the body.
In healthy individuals, the remaining 20 – 30% of iron is stored bound to special proteins, such as transferrin, ferritin, and hemosiderin. Nearly 60% of iron inside the body is incorporated into hemoglobin (in the blood), and 10% into myoglobin (in muscle tissue). Most well-nourished adults have approximately 3 – 5 g. Iron is one of the most abundant metals in the human body. Therefore, it’s important to keep iron levels in balance. However, excessive levels of iron can form reactive oxygen species which lead to tissue and DNA damage.
With low iron levels, oxygen saturation is low. One of its main roles is to transport oxygen via red blood cells throughout the body for energy production. Iron is an essential mineral that plays many important roles in the body.
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