Having an iron deficiency is very common. In fact, it has been reported as the top nutritional disorder in the world according to the World Health Organization. They reported that in 2016 nearly 80 percent of people didn't have enough iron in their bodies and that about 30 percent of people had anemia due to their untreated or undiagnosed iron deficiency.
Iron is a mineral supplement needed because it contains hemoglobin, the substance that is required for red blood cells to help transport oxygen out of your lungs and carry it throughout the rest of your body. If you have an iron deficiency, it could mean that you have a low red blood cell count. Iron deficiency can be caused from a lack of iron or low intake of iron in your diet, your body not being able to absorb iron effectively, releasing more iron from your body than you're intaking, or it can be caused by an underlying disease like rheumatoid arthritis or kidney disease.
Having an iron deficiency or low red blood count can cause many issues including feeling tired and fatigued, bruising easily, pale skin, trouble breathing or shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, damaged hair, dry skin, brittle nails, heart palpitations, memory loss, restless legs, and mouth swelling or sores. If you have an iron deficiency that goes undiagnosed or untreated over a long period of time it could cause anemia.
Iron deficiency can be diagnosed by your doctor by a simple blood test. Typically, when caught early enough, it can be treated through diet and supplementation. Foods that contain a high iron concentration include cabbage, broccoli, kale, chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, seafood, nuts, red meat, and eggs. In more serious cases, medication and blood transfusions may be prescribed.
If you feel that you are suffering from an iron deficiency, consult your doctor and request a blood test. At LongevityMed, we can help you start a diet and supplementation plan to get you feeling healthy and balanced again. Schedule a consultation today!
