Summary
This fact sheet, produced by the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, provides a comprehensive reference summary of iron as an essential micronutrient, covering its biological functions, dietary reference values, food sources, bioavailability considerations (including haem versus non-haem iron), and health implications of deficiency and excess. It is intended as an evidence-based consumer and clinician resource rather than a primary research article. The document draws on established dietary guidelines and epidemiological data to characterise at-risk populations including infants, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
UK applicability
Although the dietary reference values cited are US-based (Institute of Medicine / National Academies), the underlying nutritional science is broadly applicable to UK practice; UK practitioners should cross-reference with SACN and NHS guidance, which sets slightly different reference nutrient intakes for iron.
Key measures
Recommended Dietary Allowances (mg/day); Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (mg/day); iron content of selected foods (mg per serving); prevalence estimates of iron deficiency anaemia
Outcomes reported
The fact sheet summarises recommended dietary intakes, upper tolerable limits, food sources of iron, physiological roles, deficiency consequences, and risk groups for inadequate or excess iron status.
Topic tags
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