Final answer:
Iron in the body is vital for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which carries oxygen to tissues. Inadequate iron can lead to iron deficiency anemia, affecting learning, work capacity, and causing complications in pregnant women. It's often managed through diet and supplements.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the body, iron is used to make hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells which is needed to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, can result from inadequate hemoglobin levels in the blood and negatively impacts children's ability to learn and adults' ability to work. In severe cases, it can result in complications for pregnant women. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type and results when the body does not have enough iron to produce a sufficient amount of heme, which is necessary for hemoglobin. Symptoms of anemia can include weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath during activity. To combat iron deficiency anemia, individuals are often encouraged to consume enough dietary iron and may require iron supplements, especially in populations at higher risk such as women of childbearing age and individuals with dietary restrictions.