Iron deficiency and overload in men and woman of reproductive age, and pregnant women

Abstract

Iron is an essential micronutrient for human biology and health, but high iron levels can be dangerous. Both iron deficiency and iron overload have been linked to reproductive health. This review summarizes the effects of iron deficiency and overload on omen of reproductive age (including pregnant women) and adult men. In addition, appropriate iron levels and the need for iron and nutritional supplements at different stages of life and pregnancy are discussed. In general, men should be aware of the risk of iron overload at any stage of life; women should take appropriate iron supplements before menopause; postmenopausal women should pay attention to the risk of iron overload; and pregnant women should receive reasonable iron supplementation in middle and late pregnancy. By summarizing evidence on the relationship between iron and reproductive health, this review aims to promote the development of strategies to optimize reproductive capacity from the perspective of nutrition. However, additional detailed experimental investigations and clinical studies are needed to assess the underlying causes and mechanisms of the observed associations between iron and reproductive health.