Today, iron deficiency is the most common pathology. According to some data, more than 1.5 billion inhabitants of our planet have low iron levels. Iron deficiency anemia itself is not a disease, but it can become a symptom of a serious pathology.
The biological role of iron in the body is great – it is involved in redox processes, tissue growth and aging, immunity mechanisms, hematopoiesis, oxygen supply to organs and tissues, and the functioning of a number of enzymes.
Causes of iron deficiency
Low iron levels can be caused by several reasons, including:
- Diet and Fe absorption. Signs of low iron levels develop if there are not enough iron-containing foods in the diet or if there are problems with iron absorption.
- Vegetarians and vegans may be more prone to iron deficiency, as may premenopausal women. This is because non-heme iron found in plants is less absorbed than heme iron found in meat, poultry and fish.
- Certain diseases interfere with iron absorption, including Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, and chronic pancreatitis.
- Weight loss surgeries can also lead to low iron level.
- During pregnancy, the developing fetus also needs oxygen-rich red blood cells for energy. Therefore, low iron level is common in pregnant women.
- Normal or heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to iron deficiency anemia. For this reason, women usually require more iron than men.
- Diseases that cause chronic bleeding, especially rapid bleeding, can lead to decreased blood volume and iron deficiency anemia.
- Surgery, childbirth, or trauma can also cause excessive blood loss.
- Certain chronic inflammatory diseases can interfere with iron utilization and contribute to anemia.
Symptoms of iron deficiency
Signs of iron deficiency can progress rapidly or appear over weeks or months:
- Fatigue
- Weakness Weakness
- Memory and thinking problems
- Feeling cold
- Headaches or dizziness
- Dry, brittle hair, skin and nails
- Strange cravings for metal, dirt, paper or starchy foods called pica
- Red inflamed tongue
- Frequent infections
- Palpitations Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Restless legs syndrome
Complications of iron deficiency
- Severe iron deficiency anemia can cause tachycardia, or rapid heartbeat, and low blood pressure.
- In children, severe iron deficiency can contribute to learning and concentration problems.
- Pregnant women with low iron levels have an increased risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
- Low iron level can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections.
- Iron deficiency is linked to restless legs syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by discomfort in the legs and an overwhelming urge to move them.
Prevention and treatment prognosis
With appropriate treatment, iron deficiency symptoms often disappear within a few weeks and the body’s iron stores are gradually replenished. Adherence to the prescribed treatment is crucial for a positive outcome.
The most important way to prevent low iron levels is a balanced diet. Good dietary sources of iron include meat, poultry, legumes, tuna, nuts, dark green vegetables, tomato juice, potatoes, and tofu. Eating foods high in vitamin C is also recommended.
Some substances can inhibit iron absorption. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they contain compounds that can reduce iron absorption. In addition, calcium-rich foods and supplements should not be consumed at the same time as iron-rich foods. Excessive alcohol consumption can impair iron absorption and lead to nutrient deficiencies.
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, pay special attention to iron sources and consider consulting with a nutritionist to ensure adequate iron intake.
Foods containing iron
The following foods are considered rich sources:
- beef and veal liver
- beef
- duck meat
- white and red fish
- egg yolk
- seafood: oysters, shrimp and mussels
- buckwheat groats, beans
- dried mushrooms
- cocoa
- oat groats
- green vegetables: onions, celery, parsley, turnips, lettuce and cabbage leaves, cucumbers.
Many trace elements are found in fruits and berries: strawberries, strawberries, apricots, pomegranate, apples, pears, blueberries, blackberries, cherries. For normal iron metabolism, it is also important to include in the diet a sufficient amount of protein, eat a varied diet.
Iron supplements
As an additional source of the trace element, your doctor may recommend taking iron preparations and supplements. Some of them contain vitamins and minerals that help improve the absorption and effects of iron: vitamins C, B12, B9, B6, zinc, copper. The remedies have contraindications, you should consult your doctor before using them.
Conclusion
Iron deficiency is a common problem that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and overall health. It is important to understand that iron deficiency anemia, although not an independent disease, can be a symptom of various diseases and conditions. Proper nutrition, timely diagnosis and treatment will help prevent the development of complications and restore normal iron levels in the body. If you have signs of iron deficiency, do not delay a visit to the doctor, who will select the most appropriate treatment and give recommendations for dietary correction. Taking care of your health is an important step towards longevity and well-being.
