ABSTRACT
Metallonutraceuticals, minerals, or micronutrients (e.g., iron, iodine, zinc) are essential for human health. However, individuals in the developing world often do not receive enough minerals in their diet because of poor nutrition and disease (Ramakrishnan 2002). Iron, for example, is important for hemoglobin synthesis and the healthy development of the unborn child. Iron deficiency affects approximately 50% of pregnant women in developing countries and is also an important problem in industrialized countries. Iron deficiency during pregnancy can cause anemia, intrauterine growth retardation,
Contents 5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................123 5.2 Characterization .....................................................................................124 5.3 Bioavailability .........................................................................................125
