Hemoglobin is part of your red blood cells. You need enough iron to keep a healthy hemoglobin level. Making sure you have enough iron helps to correct anemia. As a result, your blood cannot carry enough oxygen through your body. Anemia means you do not have enough red blood cells. Your body needs iron to make red blood cells. The kidneys tell your body to make red blood cells. They give you the energy you need for your daily activities. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body. You can also get iron from supplements taken by mouth and from iron medicines prescribed by your healthcare professional. Iron is found in a wide variety of foods. Iron is a mineral needed for healthy red blood cells and for overall good health.