concentration in the water is only 11/2 times the RDA. Hot weather,
drinking lots of water, and low protein diets increase fluoride intake
and side effects. Large doses of fluoride are extremely poisonous.Iron (Fe)
Acid/Alkaline: Acid-forming
Food sources: Fruits and vegetables, especially dark green leafy
vegetables, nuts (including almonds, hazelnuts, etc.), oranges,
grapes, bananas, kelp/dulse, raisins, figs, beets, carrots, tomato juice,
asparagus, parsley, lima beans, cucumbers, Brussels sprouts, winter
squash, broccoli, watercress, blackberries, whole grain products, root
vegetables, spinach, raw broccoli, green peas, avocados, prunes,
raisins, sesame and pumpkin seeds.
Toxic sources: Industry, old plumbing pipes, water supplies,
environmental sources, including air, cast-iron pots and pans.
Uses in the body: Essential for the formation of hemoglobin, myoglobin
and many enzymes, necessary for the formation of red blood cells,
and helps fight stress and disease. Iron affects the release of the
adrenal hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone increases sodium levels.
This aids alkalization and balances potassium. Works with glucose
and fructose as well as with some vitamins (E, C, etc.) and some
amino acids. Iron strengthens the immune system and increases
resistance to colds, infections and disease. It is the oxygen-carrying
component of the blood. Other possible uses in body: growth,
reproduction, teeth, skeletal, liver, lipids, cholesterol. Vitamin E and
zinc, taken in large doses, interfere with the absorption of iron.
Caffeine from coffee, tea or soft drinks interferes with the absorption
of iron. Excessive phosphorus consumption in people who eat lots of
canned food or in people who drink many soft drinks may block
absorption. Excessive sweating, or rapid food transit time through
the intestines can reduce iron. Low iron builds high lead and visa
versa. Lead interferes with hemoglobin formation and can create iron
deficiency anemia.
Deficiency: Slight iron deficiency (that does not affect red blood cell
counts) may cause tiredness, headache, slower running times in
competitive runners, weakness, difficult menstruation, irritability,
depression and sleeplessness or troubled sleep. Severe iron