2023-11-19 14:00:00
Minerals are essential for the body to perform its functions properly. They also help keep bones, heart and brain in perfect condition, but what happens when they are consumed in excess?
Minerals are found in a large number of foods such as fruits and vegetables, dairy products, legumes, animal products and cereals. Not having them in the daily diet increases the chances of developing some disease.
But, unlike other nutrients – such as carbohydrates, fats or proteins – the body needs some minerals in small quantities, such as iron.
Excess iron mainly affects the liver. Source: Freepik
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In healthy people, high doses of iron supplements can cause stomach upset, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
On the other hand, there are those who are born with hemochromatosis, a condition that causes the body to accumulate too much iron from foods ingested through the digestive tract.
The most common type of hemochromatosis is caused by a genetic alteration passed from parents to children. And treatment involves regular blood draws to reduce iron levels.
In both cases, iron is usually stored in the organs, mainly in the liver, explains the Mayo Clinic specialized portal. As the years go by, cirrhosis and liver tumors are triggered.
Some signs that you are consuming too much iron:
Joint painWeaknessLoss of sexual desireBronze or gray skinMetallic taste in the mouthFatigueHeart failure
The liver is responsible for regulating chemical levels in the blood. Photo: Special
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Large amounts of iron are toxic to the body. People who do not suffer from hemochromatosis and who have high levels of this mineral should go to a medical check-up to have a balanced eating plan.
Some complementary measures to those indicated by a specialist to combat excess iron are:
Limit the consumption of foods with iron, such as organ meats, fish, shellfish and nuts such as pistachios and pine nuts. Increase the intake of calcium, phytates, oxalates and tannins that help absorb iron. Consume fruits abundant in vitamin C that allow iron concentrations to decrease without alter metabolismAvoid sugary productsEat lettuce, artichoke and other bitter-tasting vegetables
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