Could low iron be at the root of your physical, mental health ails?
By Mercedes Kay Gold, By Mercedes Kay Gold, CNP, CPT
Sideropenia, iron deficiency, is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world. Iron (Fe) is essential to the formation of hemoglobin and myoglobin, aiding in the oxygenation of approximately 37.2 trillion cells in the human body. Iron is linked to energy levels, and a key player in energy production. There are scads of reasons you may be low in iron, and to live a vibrant busy bee lifestyle, optimum levels are indispensable.
The effects of low iron can result in a myriad of symptoms that can go unnoticed, especially when so many juggle a million commitments and obligations daily. The most obvious sign is exhaustion, but life is tiring. Ask yourself the following questions. Are you tired even after a decent night’s sleep? Do you have trouble concentrating? Are your nails flat or concave? Are your nails thin? Do your nails break easily or have vertical ridges? If pregnant, do you have bizarre cravings? Do your kids have a short attention span? Are your kids hyper? Are you paler than usual? Do you feel anxious for no reason? Is your period heavier than usual? Do you suffer from more headaches than usual? Do you eat ice? Is your tongue swollen and tender? Do you suffer from restless leg syndrome? Do you experience twitching?
Iron is a mineral that is difficult to absorb and digest. It’s possible to be allergic to an iron supplement. If you are on a round of antibiotics or using aspirin consistently a deficiency can occur. If you drink coffee or tea or love chocolate and caffeine stocked energy drinks, iron absorption issues can occur. Iron is difficult to ingest and absorb for many people. A heavy menstrual cycle or those on thyroid mainstream medications, Thyroxin and Synthroid, can experience low levels. Iron should be watched for those suffering from ulcers, haemorrhoids, cancer or parasites. Any health issues concerning the colon, liver and gall bladder all impact the body’s ability to absorb iron as well.
Supplementing with iron should be done only after consulting with a naturopath, medical doctor or trusted health care professional. Food is the easiest way to add iron daily without overdoing it. There are two types of iron. “Heme” iron is found in animal flesh. Red meat and organ meats provide “heme” iron. Oysters, clams, eggs, fish and chicken are great options, too. All vegetable sources are referred to as “non-heme” iron. Dried apricots, asparagus, pumpkin seeds, oatmeal, tofu, lentils, tahini and beans are great plant-based options for stocking up on iron. Plant-based iron is bound to other sources and the body needs to break it down before it’s absorbed. It’s crucial to have enough vitamin C in the diet to reap all the rewards. You can add a daily supplement of vitamin C or simply squeeze citrus onto fruits and veggie favourites such as steamed kale, red pepper, broccoli and spinach. Using garlic and onion in culinary creations also provides iron boosting body-benefits.
It’s always the best laid plan to walk the healthiest path, but life happens. It’s never smart to ignore changes in your mind, body. Aim for a healthy regime revolving around Mother Nature’s best doctors; sunshine, water, sleep, air, exercise and diet.
Mercedes Kay Gold is a Certified Holistic Practitioner and Certified Mobile Personal Trainer living and working in Toronto. Her writing has been featured in various publications and has appeared on Daytime with Jacqueline Betterton. She spends her spare time blogging about all things healthy and enjoying time with her sons. She can be reached at mercedeskaygoldfitness@gmail.com or visit www.mercedeskaygold.com
