Iron is an essential trace mineral that serves many important functions in the body. It exists in ferrous and ferric forms and is primarily absorbed in the duodenum and jejunum through protein transporters. Iron is found in both heme sources like meat and non-heme plant sources. It is necessary for oxygen transport and storage and is involved in many enzymatic reactions. Iron deficiency is common and can cause fatigue while excess iron can damage organs. Pregnant women have increased needs for iron to support blood volume expansion and fetal development.