Iron stores
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Iron Stores: Implications for Health and Disease
Iron Stores and Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Heme Iron Intake and Type 2 Diabetes
Research has consistently shown a significant association between high heme iron intake and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A meta-analysis of multiple studies revealed that individuals with the highest levels of heme iron intake had a 33% higher risk of developing T2DM compared to those with the lowest levels . Specifically, for every 1 mg daily increment in heme iron intake, the risk of T2DM increased by 16%.
Ferritin Levels and Type 2 Diabetes
Ferritin, a marker of body iron stores, has also been linked to T2DM risk. Elevated ferritin levels were associated with a significantly higher risk of T2DM, with a pooled relative risk (RR) of 1.70 before adjusting for inflammatory markers and 1.63 after adjustment. Another meta-analysis supported these findings, showing that higher ferritin levels were associated with a 66% increased risk of T2DM in prospective studies and a 129% increased risk in cross-sectional studies.
Iron Stores and Dietary Factors
Dietary Iron and Iron Stores
Dietary factors play a crucial role in modulating iron stores. High intake of red meat and iron supplements has been associated with increased iron stores, while whole grains, which contain phytates that inhibit iron absorption, are linked to lower iron stores. For instance, elderly individuals consuming more than 30 mg of supplemental iron daily had a significantly higher risk of high iron stores.
Iron Absorption and Bioavailability
The bioavailability of dietary iron significantly affects iron stores. Diets with high meat content, which provide highly bioavailable heme iron, can effectively meet iron requirements and replenish iron stores, especially in women during lactation. Conversely, diets with low iron bioavailability contribute to the high prevalence of iron deficiency in menstruating women.
Iron Stores and Health Conditions
Iron Deficiency and Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by depleted iron stores, which can be distinguished from other types of anemia by evaluating iron stores. In conditions like hemochromatosis, iron stores are significantly elevated, necessitating different diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Iron Overload and Atherosclerosis
Excessive iron stores have been implicated in the progression of atherosclerosis. Elevated serum ferritin levels were found to be strong predictors of carotid atherosclerosis progression, likely due to iron's role in promoting lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress. Changes in iron stores over time also influenced atherosclerosis risk, with reductions in iron stores being beneficial and further accumulation being detrimental.
Conclusion
Iron stores, influenced by dietary intake and bioavailability, play a critical role in various health conditions. Elevated iron stores, particularly from high heme iron intake, are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. Conversely, iron deficiency remains a significant concern, particularly in populations with low dietary iron bioavailability. Understanding the balance of iron intake and its impact on iron stores is essential for managing and preventing related health issues.
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