Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) Contains Iron (Fe)

(*) See References and Disclaimer at the bottom of the page.

Nopal cactus (prickly pear) contains iron, an essential element that plays a role in protein metabolism and transportation of oxygen(1*)It is also vital for a healthy immune system and is a component of bones, nails, skin, and teeth(2*). Hemoglobin is a red protein found in the blood that contains iron(3*). In fact, it is the iron binding the oxygen we breathe in that allows oxygen to circulate throughout our body. The human body possesses 3.5-4.5g of iron and two-thirds of that is found in hemoglobin(4*). Iron can also be found in bone marrow, the spleen and the liver. There is also a very small amount of iron in myoglobin, the "hemoglobin of the muscles." Myoglobin is an oxygen and iron binding protein and is responsible for depositing oxygen into muscle tissue(5*).

Iron deficiency is the most common mineral nutritional deficiency in the world and leads to low hemoglobin levels(6*). When those levels are low enough a person is classified as anemic. Indications of anemia: loss of appetite, tiredness, pallor, lack of stamina, insomnia, headaches, and breathlessness(7*). All of the symptoms mentioned above are to do with a lack of oxygen in the blood as a result of inadequate oxygen transportation(8*). Studies have associated deficiency in iron with reduced brain function(9*). Infants who have iron deficiency may be at risk of developing behavioral problems and have reduced learning capabilities(10*).

Sources of Iron

Blackstrap Molasses, Leafy Green Vegetables, Legumes (lentils and kidney beans), Whole Grain Cereals, Flour and Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) from Natural Home Cures Freeze Dried Nopal Powder Capsules (Prickly Pear).

 

     Source References
(1) Wikipedia: Iron
(2) WebMD: Iron
(3) Medline Plus: Iron
(4) FamilyDoctor.org: Anemia
(5) Iron Disorders Institute: Iron Overload
(6) National Institutes of Health: Iron Deficiency Anemia
(7) National Library of Medicine: Genetics Home Reference: African iron overload

(8) National Library of Medicine: Long-Term Dietary Heme Iron And Red Meat Intake
(9) National Institutes of Health: Vitamin B12
(10) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Infants and Iron Deficiency

 

Natural Home Cures Freeze Dried Nopal Powder Capsules (Prickly Pear)