Fe
iron complex
A unique combination of minerals aimed at: maintaining iron levels, maintaining immunity and optimal hemoglobin levels, improving overall blood health.
Iron, copper and zinc in combination with B vitamins– this d-r Mitov product can be beneficial for:
- People who have low iron levels
- Those who have some form of anemia
- Pregnant and lactating women have higher iron needs
- People who do not get enough iron through diet
- Teenage girls and women with heavier periods
- People who often donate blood etc.
Iron is an essential mineral for the human body and plays a key role in various physiological functions. Of course, it is important to understand its effects and the needs associated with it. Some of the effects of iron are:
Creation of blood cells
Energy production
Cognitive functions
Immune function
Muscle function
Hair, skin and nail health
- Making blood cells: Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Iron supplementation can help produce red blood cells, improving oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.
- Energy production: Iron is also necessary for the proper function of enzymes involved in energy metabolism. Optimal, healthy iron levels support energy production, increasing vigor and vitality. After all, one of the most common symptoms of low iron is fatigue and lack of energy.
- Cognitive functions: Iron also plays a role in cognitive development and function. Low iron levels have been linked to cognitive impairments, including poor memory, difficulty concentrating and reduced attention span. Iron supplementation can help alleviate these symptoms, especially in people with anemia.
- Immune function: Iron is involved in the function of immune cells, mainly lymphocytes and macrophages. Adequate levels of iron support a strong immune response, helping to defend the body against infections and diseases.
- Muscle function: Iron is necessary for optimal muscle function, including muscle contractions and oxygen utilization during exercise. Iron supplementation can improve exercise performance and recovery, especially in iron-deficient individuals.
- Hair, skin and nail health: Iron deficiency can manifest itself through brittle nails, hair loss and pale skin. In fact, pale skin and lips are one of the signs through which anemia can be noticed. Iron supplementation can help improve the health and appearance of hair, skin and nails by supporting proper cellular function.
Who needs iron supplementation?
Iron needs are especially emphasized in the following groups:
- Dietary insufficiency: Many people, especially vegetarians, vegans and those on restrictive diets, may not be getting enough iron-rich foods to meet their body's needs. Iron supplementation can help bridge the gap between dietary intake and their requirements.
- Increased need for iron: Certain life stages and conditions increase the body's demand for iron, such as pregnancy, lactation, adolescence and periods of rapid growth. Iron supplementation may be necessary to meet such increased physiological needs.
- Blood loss: Chronic blood loss, whether due to gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, or other medical conditions, can lead to iron deficiency anemia. In such conditions, iron supplementation can be prescribed in order to compensate and maintain an optimal level of iron and hemoglobin in the blood.
- Poor absorption: Conditions that impair the absorption of nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract, such as celiac disease, inflammatory processes in the intestines, and certain surgical procedures, can result in iron deficiency.
- Chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease or heart failure, can interfere with iron metabolism and lead to an overall iron deficiency. Iron supplementation may be recommended as part of treatment for these conditions, but also to maintain optimal blood iron levels.
- Prevention and Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia: Anemia, also known as iron deficiency anemia, is a common nutritional disorder worldwide and can have significant health consequences if left untreated. Iron supplementation is the primary treatment for this type of anemia, helping to restore iron levels and relieve symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
What are the possible symptoms of iron deficiency?
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Loss of breath
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Brittle nails
- Headaches
- Increased pulse or heart palpitations
- Restless legs syndrome
- Difficulty concentrating or cognitive impairment
- Irritability
- Loss of hair
- Difficulty regulating body temperature
- Frequent infections or weakened immune system
- Delayed growth and development in children
Recommended intake amounts and natural sources of iron
The recommended daily intake for iron is about 14mg. Of course, there are deviations from these recommendations, so people with increased needs can safely take 30 mg per day.
Good sources of iron are: red meat, chicken, seafood and fish, legumes, spinach and other green leafy vegetables, cereals (especially quinoa), seeds and nuts, etc.
ZINC
Crucial for the immune system!
Zinc is the second most abundant "trace mineral" in the human organism, right after iron.
Its presence has been determined in over 100 different enzymes in the body.
It is a powerful mineral that we need for a healthy immune system, for the proper function of thyroid hormones, sex hormones and for maintaining a normal glucose level in the blood. It helps in the metabolism of breaking down carbohydrates for energy, but also in maintaining the health of the skin and nails. It plays a significant role in the division and growth of cells, in the healing of wounds, etc.
However, perhaps the most well-known positive influence of zinc in the body is its powerful effect in suppressing colds and other infections that develop, typically, in the cold months of the year. Zinc "fights" with harmful compounds that are constantly formed in the body as a result of various reactions - free radicals.
This antioxidant action of zinc has a positive impact on the overall health of a person, including their immunity.
- Zinc and immunity - The immune system, as the body's main defense mechanism against various infections and other threats, is of great importance for overall health. The lack of zinc in the body can lead to a suppressed function of the immune response. Even a small deficiency can affect macrophages and neutrophils, the immune natural killer cells. The body also needs zinc to make T-lymphocytes. Thus, some studies done in developing countries indicate that some severe pneumonia and other infections in patients are caused precisely by suppressed immunity as a result of zinc deficiency.
- Function in wound healing - Zinc helps maintain the elasticity of the skin and mucous membrane, which is especially important during injuries. It also helps in the production of healthy hair, nails and healthy skin cells.
- Diarrhea - Acute diarrhea is among the diseases with the highest mortality among children in developing countries. Lack of zinc in the diet may be one of the main causes of this disease. Zinc plays a significant role in the immune clearance that is reduced in these children, so they are more susceptible to infections such as the one that causes diarrhea.
- Eye Diseases - Researchers report that zinc combined with some antioxidants may reduce the progression of vision loss in the elderly. This action takes place through the prevention of damage to the cells of the retina in the eye.
- Influenza and various types of colds - Of course, taking into account the effect of zinc on the proper functioning of the immune system and its capacity as a whole, it will indirectly affect the likelihood of the development and complications of the flu and various colds.
Thus, normal levels of zinc in the body are very important. Namely, one study establishes a significant, direct impact of zinc in reducing the risk of complications or completely preventing infections caused by viruses of varying degrees of danger. Researchers have found that zinc can reduce the risk of severe infections and shorten the duration of symptoms. The mechanism of this action is still at the level of hypothesis. The hypothesis is that this positive effect of zinc is due to its direct action of inhibiting or preventing the rhinovirus from binding and replicating in the nasal tissue.
There are several studies that establish the positive effect of zinc in flu and colds
- Research was done on 50 respondents with flu symptoms. Every 5 hours, half of them took a zinc acetate tablet, while the others took a placebo tablet. Those who took zinc acetate tablets had a significantly reduced period of symptoms (cough, headache, runny nose, and body and muscle aches).
- Another, clinical study, had 273 volunteers who were infected with influenza as subjects. In the same way, half received therapy in the form of zinc gluconate, and the other half a placebo tablet. The result was the same: a reduced period of symptoms.
COPPER
Copper is found in all of our tissues and primarily has a role in making new red blood cells, in maintaining healthy nerve cells, but also in the functioning of the immune system. It is also involved in the formation of collagen in the body, as well as the absorption of iron.
For adolescents and adults, the recommended daily intake is about 900 micrograms. For pregnant and lactating women, the recommendations are 1-1.3 milligrams (1000-1300 micrograms).
Copper deficiency is rare, but if it occurs it can result in different health problems, especially in increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Some of the symptoms that may indicate a deficiency of this mineral are:
- Anemia
- Low body temperature
- Low leukocyte count
- Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
- Thyroid problems
What functions does copper have in our body?
- Cardiovascular health
Some studies have shown that low copper levels can lead to elevated cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Researchers have shown that copper supplementation has shown a positive impact on these diseases.
- Normal function of the immune system
Copper deficiency can lead to leukocytopenia, that is, a reduced number of leukocytes in the blood. This means that people with this deficiency are more prone to various infections and their immune system is weakened.
- Collagen production
It is believed that copper has an important role in maintaining the levels of collagen and elastin, which are the main structural components - proteins in our body. There is some research that suggests that copper has antioxidant properties and its intake in the body can lead to a slower aging of our skin.
In addition to these functions, copper has:
- Anti-inflammatory effect
- Antioxidative properties
- Role in maintaining healthy bones
- Role in maintaining brain health
Foods that are an excellent source of copper
- Shiitake mushrooms – extremely rich in this mineral, but also in other minerals such as: selenium, manganese and zinc. They also contain vitamins B1, B5 and B6.
- Nuts and seeds – 28g of almonds are thought to satisfy 33% of the recommended daily intake for copper, while the same amount of cashews – as much as 67%. Sesame is also considered a good source of copper and just 9g of this seed meets 44% of the daily intake for copper.
- Green leafy vegetables – especially spinach, contain copper in significant quantities.
- Dark chocolate – especially that which contains more cocoa mass, is considered an excellent source of antioxidants, fiber and minerals. Only 50g of dark chocolate is enough to satisfy the daily needs of copper, and in addition we also bring in 5g of vegetable fiber and significant amounts of manganese and iron.
- Oats – this popular cereal, often eaten as an ingredient at breakfast or dinner, is also a good source of copper.
B vitamins
Vitamin B6
Also known as pyridoxine, this is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in various body functions. It is essential for the metabolism, helping to use and break down proteins, carbohydrates and fats to produce energy. It is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood, sleep and cognitive function. It also supports the immune system by contributing to the production of antibodies and helping to maintain healthy nerve function.
Good sources of vitamin B6 are: poultry, fish, nuts, seeds, bananas, potatoes and cereals.
Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, irritability and neurological problems. However, excessive intake of vitamin B6 through supplements can cause nerve damage, so it is important to maintain a balanced intake within the recommended levels.
Vitamin B9
Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for numerous bodily functions, especially during periods of rapid growth and cell division, such as pregnancy and lactation. It plays a vital role in DNA synthesis, repair and methylation, making it crucial for the production and maintenance of new cells. Adequate intake of folate is especially important during pregnancy, in order to prevent fetal defects during its development. In addition, folates are involved in the metabolism of certain amino acids and in the formation of red blood cells.
Good dietary sources of folate are: leafy green vegetables, legumes, whole grains, meat, fresh fruit, etc. A lack of folate can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue and potential defects in newborns. Pregnant and lactating women, people with malabsorption, and those following restrictive diets may use supplementation to meet their needs for this vitamin.
Vitamin B12
Also known as cobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that has a number of key functions.
Chemically, vitamin B12 is the largest and most complex vitamin. It plays a number of important roles in the body:
- proper functioning of the nervous system and brain
- production of red blood cells (erythrocytes)
- synthesis and regulation of the DNA molecules
- synthesis of certain important fatty acids
- creating energy
- facilitating the absorption of folic acid (vitamin B9)
- bone and skin health – prevention of osteoporosis
- reducing the risk of macular degeneration
Lack of this vitamin is actually not rare, especially among the categories of people we mentioned earlier. According to statistics from the United States (the country with the best statistics in most areas), between 1.5 and 15% of the population has some degree of vitamin B12 deficiency.
The recommended daily amounts of this vitamin for adults are 2.4 mcg and slightly more than this for lactating and pregnant women, i.e. 2.8 mcg and 2.6 mcg, respectively.
It is difficult to "overdose" with vitamin B12, as the body has a mechanism to excrete it easily, however those who intend to use any type of supplementation of this vitamin should consult their doctor (interactions of this vitamin are possible with possible other medicines that people use).
Foods that are a good source of vitamin B12:
- fish – especially tuna
- chicken
- eggs
- nutritional yeast
- dairy products - yogurt, cheese
- other types of meat
- certain fortified (enriched) products, such as soy milk
Dosage:
1 tablet a day (one bottle is for one month)
IRON COMPLEX - COMPOSITION:
One tablet of IRON COMPLEX CONTAINS:
- Iron 27mg - in the form - iron (II) bisglycinate - 193% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Zinc - 10mg - in the form - zinc oxide - 100% of the recommended daily intake (VDA)
- Copper - 1.2mg - in the form - copper (II) sulfate 5H2O - 120% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Vitamin B6 - 5mg - in the form of pyridoxine hydrochloride - 357% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Vitamin B9 - 250μg - in the form of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate - 125% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Vitamin B12 - 25μg - in the form of cyanocobalamin - 1000% of the recommended daily intake (VDA)