Iron deficiency will lead to low levels of red blood cells. Low red blood cells means less oxygen will reach the tissues, muscles and cells in our body. This will result in poor health, poor concentration and highly susceptible to infection. Studies have shown that iron deficiency can cause permanent damage to brain cells. High risk groups for iron deficiency include infants, children, adolescents and women of childbearing age, especially pregnant women

Anaemia is due to insufficient iron in the blood. Lack of Iron in the blood will cause fatigue due to the lack of oxygen. Iron is needed in order for the immune system to perform normally.

The recommended intake of ion varies with age and gender (refer to the table below), However, individuals who are 14 years old and below should not consume more than 40 gm per day while pregnant & breastfeeding women should not consume more than 45 gm per day.

Excessive intake of iron can cause poisoning, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dark stools, and discomfort in the abdomen. In addition, high levels of iron in the blood increase oxidative stress, free radicals, risk of genetic mutation, cancer, liver damage, and heart disease.

Males, postmenopausal women, and hemochromatosis (a serious disease that causes excessive absorption of iron in the body) should not be given iron supplements.