Iron is an essential trace element that is mainly derived from dietary sources. Iron is needed to assist in the formation of adequate numbers of normal red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Iron is a critical part of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it as blood travels to other parts of the body. Iron is also needed by other cells, especially muscle. Low iron levels can lead to anaemia, in which the body does not have enough red blood cells.
NutriPATH offer a comprehensive iron study assessment which will detect and evaluate abnormalities of iron metabolism by measuring Iron, Ferritin, Transferrin, and Transferrin Saturation.
References:
DeLoughery TG. Iron Deficiency Anemia. Med Clin North Am. 2017;101(2):319‐332. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2016.09.004
Percy L, Mansour D, Fraser I. Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia in women. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2017;40:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2016.09.007