Which mineral is essential for the transport of oxygen in blood?

Iron is essential for the transport of oxygen in blood primarily because it is a vital component of hemoglobin, the protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it through the bloodstream to tissues and organs where it is needed for cellular respiration and energy production. The presence of iron in its heme group allows hemoglobin to effectively bind oxygen; without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to conditions such as anemia.

Magnesium, calcium, and iodine, while important for various bodily functions, are not directly involved in the transport of oxygen. Magnesium plays a role in muscle function and energy production, calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle contractions, and iodine is important for thyroid function. However, none of these minerals have the same critical role in oxygen transport as iron does.