Ori Hofmekler Blog

Iron is critical to life. It is part of the hemoglobin molecule in red blood cells, involving the mobilization of oxygen from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs. Iron is also part of enzymes responsible for energy production and DNA synthesis.

Iron deficiencies are common in our society particularly among infants, adolescences, pregnant women and the elderly. Inadequate intake of iron is common among vegetarians particularly vegans. Physically active individuals require more iron than sedentary people. A positive correlation between iron intake and physical performance has been established. Evidence indicates that even a slight iron deficiency can adversely affect physical performance.

Decreased absorption of Iron can occur due to a lack of hydrochloric acid secretions in the stomach, a condition that is associated with frequent over feeding, chronic stress and aging. Iron deficiencies can lead to anemia, cognitive disabilities, impaired immunity, fatigue and loss of strength. Serum ferritin is the best test/indicator for determining iron status.

It is generally recommended to take iron supplementation in accordance with the RDA – 10mg-12mg for men and 15mg for women. Pregnant and lactating women may need to adjust iron supplementation according to blood test.

Food rich in iron include meats, liver, nuts, seeds, parsley, dried prunes, raisins and blackstrap molasses. Nonetheless, plant derived iron has a lower bioavailability compared to animal derived iron (that is bound to hemoglobin). Since high meat consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, it is not recommended to rely on meat as a healthy source of iron. Therefore, for the educated healthy consumer and particularly the physically active one, iron supplementation is recommended to "cover the bases." Nonetheless, in case of high consumption of iron fortified nutritional products (cereals, shakes or bars) it is recommended to adjust iron supplementation as to avoid iron overload. An elevated level of iron may lead to an increased oxidative stress and increased levels of free radicals, thus increasing the risk for infections and vascular damage.

In conclusion, though iron deficiencies are more prevalent than iron overload, it is important to carefully monitor iron intake so as to avoid both. Note that naturally occurring iron in food does not cause an excess but rather it is the isolated iron supplements, (if taken on the top of a multivitamins and minerals) that may cause this problem. For that matter, Vitamin C supplementation can help increase iron absorption and protect against potential side effects.

Our sympathetic nervous system (SNS) has been under a massive attack by industrial chemicals and bad diets. The SNS is responsible for the regulation of alertness, energy expenditure and body weight via the endocrine and hormonal system. An increasing number of studies report that exposure to chemicals disrupt the SNS, adversely affecting it’s capacity to regulate energy production, and sustain a lean, healthy body. Another influencing factor in antagonizing the SNS is the high frequency of meals - particularly those rich in refined carbs and processed food.

The recent surge in child and adult overweight and obesity rates is most likely due to the failure of mainstream health care programs to address the above combined factors. A viable solution to this current epidemic requires more than just eat less and exercise more". This redundant doctor advice has failed to translate into real life positive results. The data shows that people today do not consume more calories than ten years ago, and physical activity among adults in the U.S. and the U.K. actually has increased in the past decade. Yet, there has been a rapid acceleration in weight gain and obesity in the U.S. and the U.K. during the past ten years with a prediction of getting worse in the future. Something drastic must be done now to stop this adverse trend.

The Warrior Diet is designed to help people do just that - based on survival science and anthropological research, The Warrior Diet proposes a radical yet effective solution to our current health crisis. Its premise: eat one main meal a day, avoid chemicals, and exercise properly. The Warrior Diet approach is controversial, but nonetheless, it has been endorsed by scientists and researchers and has been gaining increased recognition by virtue of its simplicity and effectiveness to help people reset their biological clock, support the SNS during the day, get leaner, stronger and healthier.

The Warrior Diet newly revised and expanded edition is available now in book stores and at Amazon.com. To learn more about The Warrior Diet browse our website at www.WarriorDiet.com.