Iron

Question 1

What are the functions of iron?

Answer 1

Needed to form haemoglobin in red blood cells, which transports oxygen around the body
Required for normal energy metabolism
Need it for normal functioning of the immune system

Question 2

What is the difference between haem and non haem iron?

Answer 2

Haem iron is found in animal sources such as red meat, liver, eggs, chicken and fish. It is easily absorbed by the body
Non haem iron is mainly from plant sources such as pulses, nuts, dried fruit, fortified breakfast cereals, green leafy vegetables and whole grains. It is not as easily absorbed by the body.

Question 3

What is the deficiency of iron called?
Give the symptoms of this diet related disorder?

Answer 3

Leads to low iron stores in the body and eventually to iron deficiency anaemia.
Symptoms- weakness, faintness, dizziness, lethargy, headaches, palpitations and sore gums, pale skin.

Question 4

Identify three sources of iron for a vegetarian?

Answer 4

pulses, nuts, dried fruit, fortified breakfast cereals, green leafy vegetables and whole grains.

Question 5

What vitamin helps with the absorption of non haem iron in the body

Answer 5

Vitamin C