Exhibit A: Iron is a mineral that is important for growth and development and proper body functioning.

Here are a few highlights.

This is why having healthy iron statusis important forhealthy hair, skin, and nails.

Iron Rich Foods

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Remember how iron plays a role in the production of hemoglobin and transporting oxygen through your body?

May Support Athletic Performance

Iron may also support athletic performance.

You then haveless healthy red blood cells availableto carry oxygen through your body.

Women over 18 need 18mg.

The RDA jumps to 28mg during pregnancy, and then down to 9mg while breastfeeding.

After menopause, women need 8mg of iron per day.

There are also certain medical conditions and medications that can impact your iron needs.

People who experience heavy periodsmay also findthey need to pay attention to their iron status.

“Heme comes from animal products and non-heme from plant-based foods.”

Tannins are found in high amounts in coffee, tea, wine, beer, some fruit (e.g.

grapes and pomegranates) and juices.

This would be especially important for women of childbearing-age," because they’re losing blood during menstruation.

Can you Take Too Much Iron?

The Bottom Line On the Benefits of Iron

Iron is widely available through a variety of foods.