Low iron levels – is it a cause of concern? Well, yes! Iron is a vital mineral that is essential for several bodily functions. One of them is transporting oxygen in the blood to various body parts. Iron deficiency occurs when there is insufficient iron in your blood. Such a condition can lead to iron deficiency anaemia with unpleasant symptoms like dizziness and fatigue, among many others.

Iron deficiency can be due to –

•  Decreased dietary intake of iron-rich food. 
•  Poor absorption of iron from the digestive system (Chrohn’s disease, autoimmune disorders like lupus, gastric ulcers)
•  Increased iron loss from the body (heavy bleeding during menstruation, bleeding from piles, and other rectal or gastric problems)
•  Increased iron requirement (pregnancy)

Effects of iron deficiency

Here is how low iron levels can affect your body:

 Irregular or Rapid Heartbeat

When your body lacks iron, the heart is forced to send a greater amount of blood to compensate for the low oxygen amount. This can cause irregular or rapid heartbeat.  

Stunted Growth

Children and infants with severe iron deficiency may experience stunted growth or delayed development. Loss of concentration and weak memory may also be a sign of very low and persistent iron deficiency. They are also prone to illnesses and infections.

Pregnancy Complications

A deficiency of iron in would-be mothers can cause certain complications during or post-pregnancy. For example – in extreme cases, premature childbirth or abnormally low birth weight can be seen if the mother has an iron deficiency. 

Affect on Skin, hair and nails

Iron deficiency can present as pale skin, brittle nails and dull and frizzy hair. Increased hair fall can also be seen in chronic cases. 

Weakness

Reduced iron levels can lead to weakness and dullness due to reduced oxygen supply to the rest of your body. This may impact the productivity of the people affected.

Effect of reproductive health

Iron deficiency anaemia can adversely affect a person’s reproductive health (for both males and females) and menstrual cycles in females. 

How can you deal with iron deficiency?

The best way to avoid iron deficiency is to make healthy changes to your dietary plan. Eating a diet that is rich in iron may help improve low levels of iron in the blood and prevent its potential complications.  Additionally, you should also focus on eating foods that contain vitamin C, as it enables the body to absorb iron. 

Here are a few examples of iron-rich foods that you should include in your diet:

• Beans
• Squash and pumpkin seeds
• Dry fruits like raisins.
• Leafy greens – spinach, kale, etc.
• Eggs
• Dry cereals that are iron-fortified.

Foods rich in essential vitamin C include:

• Fruits like grapefruit, oranges, strawberries, guavas, kiwis, pineapples, papayas, mangoes and melons.
• Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, etc.
• Green and red bell peppers.
• Tomatoes
• Brussels sprouts
• Lemon, gooseberry (amla), etc.

Moreover, you might need to take iron supplements with your planned diet. Many pregnant women are advised to consume iron supplements as part of their prenatal care to prevent premature childbirth.

Keep in mind that it is important to monitor your iron levels from time to time if you have an iron deficiency. Haemoglobin and overall parameters in an iron profile test and CBC can give a picture of iron stores and haemoglobin levels to your doctor.  Following a diet high in iron and vitamin C can help you fight the ill effects of iron deficiency. In case your iron levels do not improve with dietary changes, your doctor may evaluate further to diagnose the cause of iron deficiency and advise you on suitable iron and vitamin supplements or blood transfusion in severe cases. 

Also Read: 4 Causes of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician if in doubt before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

References

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency

Iron deficiency anaemia

https://www.nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/child-health/guidelines/Control-of-Iron-Deficiency-Anaemia.pdf