What is iron used for?
Iron is essential to our body. It plays a vital role in transferring oxygen to the muscles.
If you lack iron, it can cause anaemia*.. So it's important to eat enough iron-rich foods to stay healthy.
What is anemia*?
This is an abnormal drop in hemoglobin levels in the blood. In other words, the blood has difficulty carrying oxygen to the cells. There are many causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency?
Intense fatigue, shortness of breath on exertion, lack of energy
. Signs such as brittle nails, dry skin and
hair can also indicate iron deficiency.
The importance of iron for athletes
For sportsmen and women, iron can play a critical role in physical performance, as it contributes to the supply of oxygen to the muscles. Training requires (mostly) higher iron consumption, as iron evaporates in sweat. Professional sportsmen and women, such as athletes, who train in conditions where perspiration is higher, are therefore more likely to suffer iron losses. In principle, a coach will recommend at least one day's rest per week.
This example explains that the dose of iron depends on each of us, depending on the frequency and intensity of our physical activity, but also on our health, our diet, and so on.
Good to know: Iron deficiency is not necessarily linked to insufficient iron intake. Consult your GP to find out the exact cause.
How can I absorb iron quickly and efficiently?
Tea, coffee and calcium sources should be avoided when eating iron-rich foods, as they interfere with iron absorption. To absorb iron more quickly, opt for fruit and vegetables instead. Eat raw vegetables regularly and opt for gentle cooking (steaming, etc.). To promote iron absorption, vary the iron-rich foods on your plate. For example, eat a small amount of meat with other foods rich in iron and vitamin C.
Here's a list of iron-rich foods:
- Wholegrain cereals
- Spinach
- White beans
- Sesame
- Chickpeas
- Lenses
- Algae
- Parsley
- Chia seeds
- Soya beans
- Beans
- Black pudding
- Dandelion
- Tofu
- Oysters
- Meats
Inshape Nutrition's Multi vitamins is a complex of 13 vitamins and 9 minerals essential to the body's proper functioning. In particular, it contains iron. Multi vitamines will help you combat the stresses of everyday life. It strengthens your immune system and helps maintain sports performance.