Iron and anemia: How the body regulates an essential trace element
Keywords:
Iron-deficiency anaemia, iron bioavailability, supplementation and fortificationAbstract
Iron plays a critical role in oxygen transport and numerous metabolic processes essential for human health. Iron deficiency is the leading cause of iron-deficiency anemia, one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders worldwide and a major public health concern, particularly among children, women of reproductive age, and older adults. Although effective strategies are available for its prevention and treatment, natural alternatives have received comparatively less scientific attention. This review examines iron metabolism, absorption, and regulation, as well as conventional and natural strategies for the prevention and treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.
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