Mikroraudan

Mikroraudan is a Finnish term that translates to "micro-iron" or "micro-Fe." It refers to the very small quantities of iron that are essential for biological functions in living organisms. While iron is a vital micronutrient, its presence in biological systems is typically in trace amounts, hence the term mikroraudan.

In humans and animals, iron plays a crucial role in oxygen transport through hemoglobin in red blood cells. It is also a component of myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscles. Iron is a cofactor for many enzymes involved in energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, and immune function. Too little iron leads to iron deficiency anemia, a common nutritional disorder.

Plants also require mikroraudan for photosynthesis. Iron is a component of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for capturing light energy. It is also involved in electron transport chains within chloroplasts. Iron deficiency in plants can manifest as chlorosis, where leaves turn yellow due to insufficient chlorophyll production.

The bioavailability of mikroraudan is influenced by various dietary factors. In humans, iron from animal sources (heme iron) is generally better absorbed than iron from plant sources (non-heme iron). Factors like vitamin C can enhance non-heme iron absorption, while compounds like phytates and polyphenols can inhibit it. Understanding these interactions is important for maintaining adequate iron levels in both human and plant health.