Is rust harmful to the body?


Quick Answer

According to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health, rust, or iron(III) oxide, is not harmful to healthy individuals with normal intestinal function. As Wikipedia explains, the ingested iron uptake is regulated through several mechanisms that maintain proper circulatory iron.

Continue Reading
Is rust harmful to the body?
Credit: Onny Carr Moment Getty Images

Full Answer

In general, it is not likely for a healthy person to consume enough iron to cause any health issues. However, according to the NIH ODS, consuming over 20 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can lead to acute iron poisoning. MedlinePlus advises medical help in case of greyish skin color, weight loss, anorexia, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headache, vomiting or shortness of breath.

Learn more about Chemistry

Related Questions