Iron Deficiency
The importance of iron in your body
Iron is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the production of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from your lungs to the organs and tissues throughout your body.
Maintaining a healthy level of iron is important for:
the development of healthy skin, hair, nails and cells
muscle function and development
brain function and cognitive development
sustaining a strong immune system
the regulation of body temperature
Causes of iron deficiency
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. Without adequate iron, your body cannot produce enough haemoglobin for red blood cells to effectively deliver oxygen to your body’s tissues. This can lead to a condition known as iron deficiency anaemia. Recognising the signs of iron deficiency and understanding the causes and risk factors are the first steps in preventing iron deficiency.
Common causes of iron deficiency include:
1. Inadequate dietary intake
The most common cause of iron deficiency is the inadequate consumption of iron-rich foods, such as meat, eggs, and leafy green vegetables. A balanced diet, rich in iron and other nutrients, can prevent many cases of deficiency.
2. Increased iron needs
Your body may require increased levels of iron at different stages in your life. For example, pregnant women or children and adolescents experiencing growth spurts will require higher levels of iron than normal. If the increased demand is not met with adequate iron intake, deficiency can occur.
3. Blood loss
Significant and frequent blood loss, often due to menstruation or internal bleeding (such as from a stomach ulcer or colon cancer), can lead to iron deficiency. The body loses blood cells and iron with them, and if not replenished, this loss can result in anaemia.
4. Inability to absorb iron
A person who is consuming enough iron through their diet may still develop anaemia if their body is unable to absorb the iron properly. This malabsorption can be due to an intestinal disorder such as celiac disease, or surgical procedures that affect the intestines (e.g. a gastric bypass).
5. Chronic medical conditions
Certain chronic conditions, such as cancer, heart failure, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to a persistent but subtle loss of blood that leads to iron deficiency.
Symptoms of low iron levels
The symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia can be subtle at first but can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue and weakness
Pale or yellowish skin
Dizziness or light-headedness
Headaches
Cold hands and feet
Brittle nails
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who can diagnose and recommend an appropriate treatment.
Who is most likely to be iron deficient?
1. Women of childbearing age
Due to menstrual blood loss and the increased demand for iron during pregnancy and breastfeeding, women are particularly at risk for anaemia, especially if they experience heavy periods or if they have multiple pregnancies.
2. Infants and young children
Infants, especially those born prematurely or with low birth weight, and young children going through rapid growth periods, may not get enough iron from their diets.
3. Vegetarians and vegans
People who do not eat meat may be at a higher risk of iron deficiency if they do not consume other iron-rich or iron-fortified foods.
4. Elderly individuals
Older adults may eat less iron-rich foods or have conditions related to chronic blood loss or malabsorption.
5. Individuals with gastrointestinal disorders
Conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease or gastric ulcers can affect the body’s ability to absorb iron.