Iron homeostasis refers to the regulation of iron levels in the body to maintain health. Iron is essential for various biological functions, including the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. The body must balance iron absorption from food, storage in ferritin, and recycling from old red blood cells to prevent deficiencies or toxic overload. The liver plays a crucial role in iron homeostasis by producing hepcidin, a hormone that controls iron absorption in the intestines and release from stores. When iron levels are sufficient, hepcidin levels increase, reducing iron absorption. Conversely, low iron levels trigger hepcidin reduction, enhancing iron availability for vital processes.