Iron is a trace element nutrient that the body uses for several discrete areas of normal health and function. The primary role of iron is in the formation of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in your red blood cells that transports oxygen around the body. Myoglobin is a protein that is similar in structure to hemoglobin that is important for the storage and usage of oxygen by muscles, including the heart. Additionally, iron also plays a role in regulating the response of the body to low-oxygen conditions or hypoxia. The body also uses iron in many enzymes that are critical for metabolism. These enzymes, called cytochromes are required for the metabolism and detoxification of many natural compounds in the body as well as chemicals, drugs and environmental pollutants. DNA synthesis also requires an iron-containing enzyme, which is why iron is so important for growth, development and wound healing.