Iron is a mineral vital for many bodily functions, most importantly, oxygen transport. It’s a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. When your iron levels dip, you might experience a range of symptoms that can significantly impact your daily life.
If you’re constantly feeling fatigued, breathless, or have pale skin, low iron could be the reason. Here’s a breakdown of the common culprits behind low iron levels:
Dietary Shortfalls:
- Iron-poor diet: Not consuming enough iron-rich foods like red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy greens can lead to iron deficiency over time.
- Vegetarian/vegan diets: While plant-based diets can be rich in iron, the iron found in plants (non-heme iron) is less readily absorbed by the body compared to iron from animal sources (heme iron).
Blood Loss:
- Heavy menstrual periods: Women with heavy or prolonged periods are at an increased risk of iron deficiency due to blood loss.
- Chronic internal bleeding: Ulcers, gastritis, polyps, or even regular use of certain pain relievers like aspirin can cause internal bleeding that you might not even notice, leading to iron loss.
Absorption Issues:
- Digestive conditions: Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other digestive disorders can hinder your body’s ability to absorb iron from food.
- Surgery: Gastric bypass surgery or stomach removal surgery can affect iron absorption.
Other factors:
- Pregnancy: Iron stores are depleted during pregnancy to support fetal development.
- Infancy and childhood: Rapid growth spurts in these age groups require sufficient iron intake.
What to do if you suspect low iron:
If you’re experiencing symptoms suggestive of low iron, consult your doctor. A simple blood test can diagnose iron deficiency anemia. Based on the cause, your doctor will recommend dietary changes, iron supplements, or address any underlying medical conditions.
Ready to address your low iron and reclaim your energy?
Don’t wait! Hop on a call with me to discuss your specific situation and create a personalized plan to get your iron levels back on track. Schedule a free consultation today!
