The importance of iron Iron is an important dietary mineral that is involved in various bodily functions, one of which is the transport of oxygen in the blood. This is essential in providing energy for daily life. Iron has many other jobs such as: bone formation and growth, immune resistance, respiration, skin and nail formation and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Good sources of iron include red meat, liver, dark leafy green vegetables (spinach and broccoli), nuts and seeds. Iron is lost from