Iron is an essential mineral and an important component of proteins involved in oxygen transport and metabolism.

Almost two-thirds of the iron in your body is found in hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to your body’s tissues. Smaller amounts of iron are found in myoglobin, a protein that helps supply oxygen to muscle, and in enzymes that assist biochemical reactions in cells. About 15 percent of your body’s iron is stored for future needs and mobilized when dietary intake is inadequate. The remainder is in your body’s tissues as part of proteins that help your body function.

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Adult men and post-menopausal women lose very little iron except through bleeding. Women with heavy monthly periods can lose a significant amount of iron. Your body usually maintains normal iron status by controlling the amount of iron absorbed from food.