Which mineral is essential for oxygen transport in the blood?

Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood because it is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues and organs throughout the body. Each hemoglobin molecule can bind up to four molecules of oxygen, and without sufficient iron, the production of hemoglobin diminishes, leading to reduced oxygen transport capacity. This is why iron is crucial for maintaining normal oxygen levels in the body and supporting overall metabolic processes.

Other minerals listed, such as potassium and calcium, while important for various bodily functions, do not play a direct role in the transport of oxygen. Potassium is vital for muscle contractions and nerve function, and calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function. Iodine is important for thyroid hormone production but does not have a role in oxygen transport. Therefore, iron stands out as the mineral directly responsible for facilitating oxygen movement in the bloodstream.