Iron Overload Destroys Mitochondria, Sabotages Health

It's an essential ingredient for your health, but according to recent research, a buildup can damage mitochondrial function and even damage your heart

Most people don't realize is that excess iron is more common than too little, and that iron overload can be even more problematic.9nong/Shutterstock

Iron is necessary for life as it is essential to transfer oxygen into your tissues. Hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that contains iron at its core, reversibly binds to oxygen and supplies your tissues with it. Without proper oxygenation, your cells quickly start dying.

Iron is also a key component of various proteins and enzymes, and is involved in energy production, immune function, metabolism, and endocrine function. For these reasons, low iron (anemia) can cause significant health problems.