{"id":6929,"date":"2025-11-21T13:03:02","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T12:03:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/biohormone.aretis-staging.ch\/?p=6929"},"modified":"2026-01-29T10:12:30","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T09:12:30","slug":"the-role-of-iron-in-the-body","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biohormontherapie.ch\/en\/die-rolle-von-eisen-im-koerper\/","title":{"rendered":"The role of iron in the body"},"content":{"rendered":"

Iron plays a key role in the formation of haemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen in the red blood cells and distributes it throughout the body. If there is an iron deficiency, not enough oxygen can be transported to the cells, which leads to tiredness, fatigue and reduced physical and mental performance. Iron also supports the immune system by contributing to the production and activity of immune cells.<\/p>\n

Risk groups for iron deficiency<\/h3>\n

Iron deficiency does not affect everyone equally. The following groups are particularly at risk:<\/p>\n

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  1. Women of childbearing age<\/b>Women often have a higher iron requirement due to monthly blood loss during menstruation, especially during heavy periods.<\/li>\n
  2. Pregnant and breastfeeding women<\/b>During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the need for iron increases considerably in order to provide both the mother's body and the child with sufficient iron.<\/li>\n
  3. Growing children and young people<\/b>As the body develops rapidly during growth phases, the need for iron is also increased.<\/li>\n
  4. Vegetarians and vegans<\/b>Iron from plant sources is less easily absorbed by the body than from animal sources. Therefore, people who do not eat meat must pay particular attention to a sufficient iron intake.<\/li>\n
  5. Competitive athlete<\/b>Increased physical activity and increased sweating can lead to increased iron loss in athletes.<\/li>\n
  6. Older people<\/b>: With increasing age, the body's ability to utilize iron efficiently decreases. This often results in a more unbalanced diet, which increases the risk of a deficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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    Preventive & therapeutic uses of iron<\/h2>\n

    Iron deficiency and ADHD in children<\/h3>\n

    Studies show that iron supplementation can improve ADHD symptoms in children with low ferritin levels. Further studies show that low ferritin levels and vitamin D deficiency correlate with the severity of ADHD.<\/p>\n

    Vitamin D deficiency and iron deficiency<\/h3>\n

    In a large-scale study from Qatar, ADHD children had lower vitamin D and iron levels compared to healthy children. A Korean study also found a link between vitamin D deficiency and iron deficiency, particularly in young women. Vitamin D deficiency significantly increases the risk of anemia and iron deficiency anemia.<\/p>\n

    Iron deficiency and restless legs syndrome (RLS)<\/h3>\n

    RLS is associated with iron deficiency, as dopamine production is iron-dependent. Iron therapy is recommended, but often only with mild success, as the disease is complex.<\/p>\n

    Iron deficiency and thyroid disorders<\/h3>\n

    In autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iron influences the synthesis of thyroid hormones. A low iron status can reduce the effectiveness of thyroid hormone therapies. Studies show that a ferritin level of over 100ng\/ml can improve symptoms.<\/p>\n

    Recommendations for use and dosage<\/h3>\n