Iron Is A Secret Skin Fuel
Iron plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, often working behind the scenes. While many don’t associate iron with skin health, its impact is significant. Adequate iron levels ensure proper haemoglobin function, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to the body, including the skin.
How Iron Benefits the Skin
Iron promotes cell regeneration and collagen production, essential for skin elasticity and firmness. Collagen production decreases with age and can be further reduced by iron deficiency, accelerating skin aging. Nutritionists highlight that iron is central to oxygen delivery throughout the body.
Iron deficiency can cause pale skin and dark circles under the eyes, common symptoms of anaemia, due to reduced oxygen delivery to the skin. Maintaining adequate iron levels contributes to a healthier, more vibrant complexion.
Iron also aids in the formation of myoglobin, a protein in muscle cells, including skin cells. Myoglobin facilitates oxygen transfer from red blood cells to muscle cells, enhancing skin cell function and improving skin texture.
Why Diet Alone Isn’t Enough
Dietary iron comes in two forms: heme (from animal sources) and non-heme (from plant sources). Heme iron has a high absorption rate of up to 35%, while non-heme iron, predominant in vegetarian diets, has a much lower absorption rate of up to 8.7%. The NSS 68th Round (2011-12) reported that 99% of iron in the Indian diet came from plant sources, with only 1% from animal sources.
Plant-Based Supplements
To combat iron deficiency, supplements and iron-fortified nutrition can be beneficial. Many people, find iron gummies made from fruit pectin effective. These gummies, formulated with clinically proven ingredients, offer good absorption and fit well into busy lifestyles.
Women are increasingly opting for protein supplements containing iron and Vitamin D. This combination can revitalize skin, improve metabolism, and boost energy levels.
In conclusion, iron is a hidden ally for skin health, playing a crucial role in maintaining a vibrant complexion and preventing the signs of aging. Ensuring adequate iron levels through diet and supplementation is essential for overall skin vitality.
Re-reported from the article originally published in She the People.
