Eisenstoffwechselstörungen

Eisenstoffwechsel refers to the complex processes by which the human body absorbs, transports, utilizes, and excretes iron. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in numerous biological functions, most notably in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It is also a component of myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle cells, and is involved in various enzymatic reactions that are vital for energy production and DNA synthesis.

The absorption of iron primarily occurs in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. There are two main dietary forms of iron: heme iron, found in animal products like meat and fish, which is more readily absorbed, and non-heme iron, found in plant-based foods, which is absorbed less efficiently. Factors such as vitamin C intake can enhance non-heme iron absorption, while substances like calcium, phytates, and tannins can inhibit it.

Once absorbed, iron is transported in the bloodstream bound to a protein called transferrin. It is then delivered to various tissues, including the bone marrow for red blood cell production, the liver for storage, and other cells for metabolic processes. The body tightly regulates iron levels because both deficiency and excess can lead to health problems. Iron deficiency can cause iron-deficiency anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. Conversely, iron overload, known as hemochromatosis, can lead to organ damage. The body has limited mechanisms for excreting excess iron, making careful absorption regulation paramount.