AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON IRON

Iron is necessary for the transport of oxygen in red blood cells.

The best way to increase iron is to find and eliminate the cause of low iron. However, when the cause is unknown, can't be eliminated, or when iron deficiency occurs during pregnancy, supplementation is required.

Inflammation, and infections such as COVID, increase hepcidin (blocking iron metabolism). Iron deficiency is an important sign of severe COVID.

Caution

Iron is highly toxic when in excess, as the body has no good way to excrete iron.

Iron Absorption

Gastric acid and a low pH enhances solubility and uptake of oxidized iron. As iron from plant sources has a low absorption rate, simmer vegetable iron sources in vinegar, and lemon juice. Herbal vinegar extracts are more effective than teas or tinctures. Ascorbate and citrate increase iron uptake by increasing solubility.

Hypochlorhydria and use of antacids can create an iron deficiency.

Iron in the form of Heme, present in meats and seafood is rapidly absorbed regardless of duodenal pH. Meats are thus an excellent source of iron.

Iron absorption is inhibited by plant phytates and tannins. Lead, especially undetected in groundwater, can interfere with iron absorption.

INGREDIENTS WITH IRON

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH IRON

HELPFUL FOR*

'Iron' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.

CONTRAINDICATIONS / AGGRAVATES / IS AGGRAVATED BY*

'Iron' may aggravate, or be aggravated by, these symptoms and causes below.

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University.

John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language.

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