Iron overload and insulin sensitivity

Too much iron can impair your ability to release insulin (insulin secretory capacity). Correcting the overload improved glucose tolerance, but decreased insulin sensitivity. The subjects had hereditary haemochromatosis, which is a very common genetic defect.

Iron is also a pro-oxidant. Usually, men do not need any supplemental iron unless recommended by their physician. Children and menstruating women are usually ok to supplement with iron in small amounts.

Abstract

Leave a Reply