Iron and iron deficiency anaemia

Overview

Haem and non-haem iron, food sources, iron deficiency anaemia and groups at risk, iron needs of women and children, iron recycling, excess iron and haemochromatosis.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What are the functions of iron?

   Model answer

   Iron is part of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells, and of myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle. Iron is also part of enzymes involved in energy release and supports immune function.

2. 2

   What is the difference between haem and non-haem iron?

   Model answer

   Haem iron is found in meat, poultry and fish and is absorbed easily. Non-haem iron is found in plant foods, eggs and fortified foods and is absorbed much less efficiently.

3. 3

   Name valuable food sources of haem iron.

   Model answer

   Red meat, liver and other offal are rich in haem iron. Dark poultry meat, oily fish and shellfish also supply it.

4. 4

   Name valuable food sources of non-haem iron.

   Model answer

   Pulses, dark green leafy vegetables, dried apricots, nuts and wholemeal bread supply non-haem iron. Fortified breakfast cereals and white flour, which is fortified by law, are also important sources.

5. 5

   What is iron deficiency anaemia?

   Model answer

   Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition in which too little haemoglobin is made, so the blood carries less oxygen. The red blood cells become small and pale.

6. 6

   What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?

   Model answer

   Iron deficiency anaemia causes tiredness, lack of energy, pale skin and shortness of breath. Heart palpitations, headaches and brittle or spoon-shaped nails may also occur.

Other ways to work this

The same content, four other ways.

What is inside Levo

Six ways to work the same material.