Causes of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficience anemia is the result of your body not producing enough iron.  The result of this is the body’s inability to produce enough hemoglobin to oxygenate red blood cells.

What can cause iron deficiency anemia?

An Acute Bleed – If you notice rectal bleeding, you should always get this checked

Surgical Procedures

Autoimmune Diseases – crohn’s,  ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, chronic autoimmune disorders and more

Pregnancy – Extra oxygen & nutrient demands required to fetus can leave mother depleted

Heavy Periods –  Iron deficiency is very common in women with heavy cycles and blood loss

Lab tests to run to rule out Iron Deficiency:

While symptoms like fatigue, dizziness and pale skin, etc. are often associated with iron deficiency anemia; it is important to get lab test to check hemoglobin levels.

Iron Panel – Iron, TIBC, Ferritin

Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Looking at hemoglobin levels and the size/shape of the red blood cell

Treatment for iron deficiency anemia can be multifaceted and often depending on the degree of iron deficiency you have in your body.

Dietary iron (this is found in two forms): Heme iron – This type of iron is found in lean red meat, poultry, and seafood. Heme iron is easily absorbed into the body.

Nonheme iron – Nonheme iron is poorly absorbed into the body. Beans, broccoli, legumes, brown rice, nuts and seeds all contain nonheme iron.

Cookware : Cast Iron cookware – Can help provide iron to those in need.

Iron Fish – Is an iron block that you can add to water to help infuse water with iron. Make sure you choose a brand that is high quality and highly reviewed.

Supplements: Oral iron supplementation – Is great for the people that have well functioning GI tracks.

IV Infusions: When people are having a hard time functioning with severe fatigue, dizziness, heart palpitations and constant chewing on ice, IV iron infusions can be warranted.

Credit: Balance Health.

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