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High levels of iron are important for health

Category: Anemia and RBC disorders

Of all the health conditions that one has to be concerned with in life, iron deficiency may not top the list. But experts say that iron blood testing should be a regular part of a person's normal health regimen, as a deficiency can have many serious consequences.

Iron is needed by the body for many functions. It plays a role in a person's ability to digest food and is also involved in energy activation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Without this key nutrient it may be more difficult for a person to engage in physical activity and lead an active life.

Additionally, iron deficiency can have a major impact on the development of infants. Studies have shown that the condition impedes the development of normal motor function. Babies born to mothers with iron deficiency are significantly more likely to die during infancy.

However, experts from the Mayo Clinic say that treating iron deficiency is relatively easy. Simply eating more foods that are good sources of the nutrient or taking supplements is generally sufficient for correcting an imbalance of the nutrient.

This is why iron blood testing is so important. It can help individuals determine if they need to take steps in their life to correct a problem.