KEY FACTS ABOUT IRON
1
Iron is a mineral which is essential for red blood cell production and function.
2
We get iron from ANIMAL sources such as red meat and also from PLANT sources such as green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, callaloo and lettuce as well as legumes like beans and lentils.
3
Low levels of iron lead to a decrease in red blood cells which is called Anemia.
IS YOUR IRON LOW?
Iron levels can be low for a variety reasons:
BLOOD LOSS
Many women lose blood from their monthly menstrual cycles and can have significant blood loss if they have very heavy periods. During surgery, people can lose quite a bit of blood and become iron deficient.
BODY UNABLE TO ABSORB IRON FROM FOOD
Some people are unable to absorb iron in their bodies. People who have had gastric bypass surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease, or people with celiac disease who are sensitive to gluten are particularly susceptible.
NORMAL
ANEMIC
PREGNANCY
Pregnant women are often iron deficient, meaning the baby is not getting enough iron needed for proper development and will be at risk for delayed neurological development, autism and ADHD.
CHRONIC DISEASES
People with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart failure, and kidney failure are also at risk for low iron levels.
SYMPTOMS OF IRON DEFICIENCY
-
Feeling tired all the time
-
Weakness
-
Dizziness
-
Shortness of breath especially with physical activity
-
Racing heart
-
Restless leg – uncontrolled and involuntary movement of legs
-
Headache
-
Craving certain things like ice or dirt (this is called PICA)
-
Feeling cold all the time
-
Brittle or spoon-shaped nails
-
Cracks and ulcers in your mouth
-
Inability to focus and concentrate
-
Hair loss
-
Sore tongue or dry mouth
