We all know that in order to be healthy we must have the right amount of vitamins and minerals in our bodies, either through food sources that are naturally rich in them or through supplements. Iron in particular is a mineral that plays a significant role in our health. However, the saying, “too much of anything is bad for you,” definitely applies. In the case of men and too much iron, the end results can be very dangerous.

As a mineral, iron is capable of a number of health benefits such as making sure our immune systems are strong enough to ward off disease, ensuring that young children develop properly (both physically and mentally), providing the body with loads of natural energy, treating and preventing conditions like anemia and is even good for maintaining healthy skin. Food items that are naturally rich in iron include eggs, nuts, lean meat, dark and leafy veggies, whole grain bread, raisins, dried fruits, cereals with added iron, shellfish and tofu. Iron can also come in supplement form.

So if iron is capable of so many great health benefits how can it possibly do harm - and in men, no less? While iron itself can do a lot of good for the human body, we only need it in small amounts. If there happens to be an instance where there is too much iron in the body, men aren’t able to properly dispose of the excess iron. Surprisingly enough, this is not an issue for women. If a woman happens to absorb too much iron into her body, she is able to expel it - mainly through menstruation. But because men do not have this option, the dangers of too much iron are more of a reality.

The two main concerns for men when it comes to excess iron is the possibility of heart attack or cancer. Iron inside the male body has the tendency to produce free radicals - too many of these can result in heart disease, limiting blood flow to the necessary areas and creating oxidized cholesterol to become lodged within various parts of the body. When the arteries become too clogged, the heart isn’t able to get the right amounts of blood, resulting in a heart attack. The presence of too much iron can also increase a man’s risk for cancer. This makes it very dangerous for men who already have a history of cancer in their family or who are currently dealing with cancer themselves. The reason for this is that iron acts as a buffet for nourishing cancer cells, causing the cancer cells to multiply faster and spread more rapidly. The presence of excessive free radicals doesn’t help the situation, either.

Because of these risks it is important for men to get their iron levels tested by their doctor, especially if they have a history of heart disease or cancer. Make it a point to know how much iron you have and how much you need in order to only absorb a healthy amount. Some changes to your diet or lifestyle may be necessary in lowering high iron levels but by keeping good communication with your doctor and following his/her instructions, you’ll be on the right path.

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