Iron is essential to our immune function and red blood cell production. Zinc is needed for hair growth and sperm production. Men and women, due to biological difference, have different nutrition needs for iron and zinc. Generally, men need more zinc than women due to their higher physical needs while women need extra iron to replenish the iron lost in menstrual period. Table 2 shows the function of iron and zinc and their Dietary Reference Intakes (recommended daily intakes) for adults.
Table 1: Function of Iron and Zinc, and thier Diety Reference Intakes for Adults (aged 18-49)
Iron is essential to our immune function and red blood cell production. Zinc is needed for hair growth and sperm production. Men and women, due to biological difference, have different nutrition needs for iron and zinc. Generally, men need more zinc than women due to their higher physical needs while women need extra iron to replenish the iron lost in menstrual period. Table 2 shows the function of iron and zinc and their Dietary Reference Intakes (recommended daily intakes) for adults.
