madman
Super Moderator
Have you tested your iron levels lately? Are you currently taking iron? Are you taking it every day? (spoiler alert: you don't want to take iron every day!)
Iron may be a standard, almost boring supplement to think about, but having adequate iron levels is absolutely essential to your health.
In this talk, I cover symptoms that may indicate that your iron is too low or too high, how to test your iron levels, and how to supplement properly to maximize the benefits of taking iron without side effects, some of which can be really serious.
So many healthcare professionals don't monitor iron properly, and when they prescribe it, they tell you to just take it every day, which is not the most evidence-based approach to supplementation.
Chapters:
00:00 - Iron's job in the body
02:56 - Causes of iron deficiency
05:56 - Symptoms of iron deficiency
09:00 - Dietary sources of iron
12:22 - Testing for iron deficiency
21:22 - Foods and drugs that lower iron absorption
23:01 - Types of iron supplement formulations
24:34 - Don't take iron daily. Take it every other day.
28:56 - Iron infusions
Understanding the Importance of Iron
Hello! I’m Dr. Felice Gersh, your integrative OB/GYN. Today, let’s talk about iron—a crucial mineral that plays a vital role in our health, particularly for women.Why Is Iron So Important?
Iron is best known for its role in preventing anemia and carrying oxygen through the blood. Around 70% of the iron in our bodies is in hemoglobin, the molecule that gives red blood cells their color and enables oxygen transport. But iron does much more:- Energy Production: Iron supports mitochondria, the "power plants" of our cells.
- Enzyme Function: It helps activate enzymes necessary for countless bodily processes.
- Brain Health: Adequate iron is critical for brain function and cognitive development, especially in children.
- DNA Stability: Iron helps maintain healthy DNA, reducing the risk of cell damage and even cancer.
Iron Deficiency: Causes and Risk Factors
Iron deficiency can develop due to:- Blood Loss: Heavy periods, surgeries, or gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., ulcers, colitis, or colon cancer).
- Poor Diet: Insufficient intake of iron-rich foods, particularly in vegetarians and vegans.
- Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or after gastric bypass surgery.
- Increased Demand: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or rapid growth in infants and toddlers.
Symptoms of Low Iron
Some common signs of iron deficiency include:- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Hair Loss
- Shortness of Breath
- Brain Fog and Headaches
- Cravings for Non-Food Items (e.g., ice, dirt, or paper)
- Restless Leg Syndrome
Testing for Iron Levels
Standard blood counts (like hemoglobin and hematocrit) often miss early-stage iron deficiency. For a comprehensive evaluation, request:- Ferritin (iron storage levels)
- Total Iron
- Iron Binding Capacity
Sources of Dietary Iron
Iron comes in two forms:- Heme Iron (animal sources like red meat, which is easiest to absorb)
- Non-Heme Iron (plant-based sources like spinach, lentils, and dried fruits, which are harder to absorb)
Iron Supplements
If dietary changes aren’t enough:- Choose iron supplements carefully (e.g., ferrous sulfate or gluconate).
- Take them with vitamin C on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
- Avoid taking them with calcium or antacids.
- Start with small doses to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
When to Consider Iron Infusions
If oral supplements aren’t effective—due to severe deficiency or malabsorption—iron infusions might be necessary. These should be administered by a hematologist, as improper dosing can cause serious complications.Key Takeaways
- Iron is essential for energy, brain health, DNA stability, and more.
- Women, especially during reproductive years, are at high risk of deficiency.
- Monitor iron levels with comprehensive tests, not just basic blood counts.
- Address deficiency with diet, supplements, or medical intervention as needed.
