Iron is known as the "frisky horse" because it brings vitality. It is one of eight trace minerals and is found in EVERY cell in our body. It plays an important role in energy production, fetal development as well as red blood cell production. There are two forms of iron: heme and non-heme.

Heme iron carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues through hemoglobin. Myoglobin holds the oxygen in the cells of the muscles. Heme iron is the most bioavailable form of iron. This means the body can absorb it and use it more easily than non-heme iron. Non-heme iron is much less absorbable but there is much more of it in the foods we eat than heme iron. Therefore, it contributes more in meeting our iron needs.

Some plant foods contain non-heme iron. Animal meat contains both forms of iron, making it the best choice for nutrition.

Phytic acid is a natural substance found in plant seeds that hinders the absorption of iron, zinc, and calcium. It is often referred to as an antinutrient because it works against the body. For those following a healthy diet, phytic acid is not a big problem. But, for those NOT following a healthy diet, malabsorption and malnourishment can occur.

All edible seeds, grains, legumes, and nuts contain phytic acid in various amounts, and small amounts are also found in root vegetables and tubers. Phytic acid can be reduced by soaking, sprouting, or fermenting.