Today I would like to talk to you about an issue that affects many people but is often overlooked: iron deficiency.
As someone who has personally experienced iron deficiency, I would like to share my insights and help you recognize the signs of iron deficiency and understand the potential effects on your health.
The importance of iron: Iron is an essential mineral that is vital for numerous bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in the production of hemoglobin, the component of red blood cells that transports oxygen to organs and tissues. An iron deficiency can therefore lead to a variety of problems. And, perhaps most importantly for many of you, metabolism is highly metabolically active!
Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency: There are several signs that may indicate a possible iron deficiency. These include persistent fatigue and exhaustion, pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Some people also experience difficulty concentrating and a general decrease in performance.
Risk groups: Certain groups are at increased risk of iron deficiency. These include women of childbearing age, especially during menstruation; pregnant and breastfeeding women; vegetarians and vegans who may not be getting enough iron from plant sources; and people with chronic diseases that can affect iron absorption.
The importance of diagnosis: If you suspect you may be suffering from an iron deficiency, it's important to undergo a comprehensive diagnosis. A blood test can determine your body's iron levels and provide additional information to determine the cause of the deficiency. We now also offer this service at Goldenbody. Please contact us if you suspect a deficiency (it could also be other vitamins and minerals) and would like to have a blood test.
Effects of untreated iron deficiency: Untreated iron deficiency can lead to serious health problems. In addition to reduced performance and increased fatigue, iron deficiency can also weaken the immune system, impair cognitive function, and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. Iron deficiency anemia, in which the number of red blood cells decreases significantly, is one possible consequence.
Managing iron deficiency: The treatment of iron deficiency depends on the severity of the deficiency and the underlying cause. Iron-containing supplements in the correct dosage can provide relief. I highly recommend Iron Energetic.
Of course, diet also plays a major role. There are many foods rich in iron. These include, in particular, dark meat such as beef and liver, poultry, fish, and seafood. Legumes such as lentils and beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and oatmeal are also good sources of iron. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and chard also contain significant amounts of iron.
Another important aspect is the better absorption of iron from plant sources when combined with vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, peppers, or strawberries. This allows the body to absorb the iron more efficiently. Iron-rich foods are therefore crucial for a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy iron balance in the body.
I hope I was able to help you with this and wish you a great day.
See you soon, Laura <3