Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting mainly children, women of childbearing age, pregnant women, frequent blood donors and people with certain medical conditions. (1)
Iron is a mineral found in a range of foods. It is used to transport oxygen around the body. It is also important for energy production, DNA synthesis, immune function and storing oxygen in our muscles.
Iron does not work in isolation within the body. Nutrients such as vitamin B12, folate, vitamin B6, copper, and vitamin C are all essential cofactors involved in healthy red blood cell production, oxygen transport, energy production, and iron metabolism. Without adequate levels of these nutrients, symptoms of fatigue and low energy may persist even when iron intake is sufficient.
Iron can also act as a pro-oxidant when levels become excessive, contributing to oxidative stress. For this reason, maintaining adequate antioxidant intake through colourful plant foods, polyphenols, selenium, zinc, and vitamins C and E may help support healthy iron regulation and reduce oxidative stress, particularly during and after menopause when iron stores naturally begin to rise.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
Some of the symptoms of iron deficiency may be quite obvious like:
Whilst other symptoms are less obvious:
Iron Overload – Haemochromotosis
Haemochromotosis is a genetic condition which results in iron accumulating in the liver, heart, and other tissues. It usually occurs later in life and is treated by phlebotomy (removal of blood from the body, usually 500ml at a time). Iron overload from supplementation is very rare in healthy people without a genetic disposition, however due to the frequency of undetected inherited diseases, iron supplementation should be avoided if you are not iron deficient. (1)
Diseases associated with iron overload include:
Iron and Menopause
Due to regular periods, women tend to be more prone to iron deficiency. Once a woman stops menstruating, and iron is no longer lost regularly, it accumulates in the body. (3) During menopause, estrogen levels drop, and iron levels increase. Although more research is needed, researchers have investigated iron’s role in women’s health after menopause:
Conclusion
Iron is essential for oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, energy production and immune function. Iron deficiency is prevalent around the world, but iron overload can play an important part in our health as we age. If you are concerned about your iron levels, speak to your GP about getting your iron levels checked, or get in touch with us at AMC.
References