How to fight iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia. It is a condition where there is a lack of healthy red blood cells in the blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body tissues. As the name suggests, iron deficiency anemia occurs due to insufficient iron levels. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce enough material for red blood cells to effectively carry oxygen (hemoglobin). Iron deficiency anemia can leave you feeling tired and short of breath. Iron deficiency anemia can usually be corrected with iron supplements. Sometimes, additional tests or additional treatment may be necessary for iron deficiency anemia, especially if your doctor suspects internal bleeding. In this article, we delve deeper into iron deficiency, its causes, and treatment methods.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

If the body does not absorb an adequate amount of iron, it begins to lack iron. Symptoms only appear when iron deficiency progresses to iron deficiency anemia - a condition where iron reserves in the body are so low that there are not enough normal red blood cells to effectively carry oxygen. Symptoms:

• fatigue;

• weakness;

• dizziness;

• headache;

• glossitis (inflammation of the tongue);

• pale skin and nails.

What are the causes of iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency is perhaps the most common source of anemia. There are many reasons why a person may lack iron. Below we discuss the main ones.

Nutrition. Eating too little iron for a prolonged period can lead to iron deficiency in your body. Foods rich in iron include meat, eggs, and certain leafy green vegetables. Since iron is crucial during periods of rapid growth and development, pregnant women and young children may need even more iron-rich foods.

Pregnancy or blood loss due to menstruation. Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common cause of iron deficiency anemia in women of childbearing age. Pregnancy also increases the body's need for iron, as more iron is needed to supply enough oxygen to the developing baby.

Internal bleeding. Certain medical conditions can cause internal bleeding, which can be a cause of iron deficiency anemia. For example, stomach ulcers, colorectal polyps or cancer, or colorectal cancer. Regular use of certain pain relievers, such as aspirin, can also cause bleeding in the stomach.

Inability to absorb iron. Certain disorders or surgeries that affect the intestines can also disrupt iron absorption in your body. Even if you get enough iron from food, conditions like celiac disease or intestinal surgery, such as gastric bypass, can limit the amount of iron your body can absorb.

Endometriosis. If you have endometriosis, you may experience heavy blood loss during menstruation. You may not even know you have endometriosis because it is hidden outside the uterus in the abdominal or pelvic area.

Genetics. Some conditions, such as celiac disease, which can make it difficult to absorb enough iron, are hereditary. There are also genetic conditions or mutations that can exacerbate the problem.

What diet to choose?

If your diet partially contributes to iron deficiency anemia, your family doctor will advise you on iron-rich foods to include more in your diet. If you find it difficult to incorporate iron into your diet, you may be referred to a specialist dietitian.

Eat and drink more:

• dark green leafy vegetables;

• iron-fortified grains and breads;

• meat;

• dried fruits such as apricots, prunes, and raisins;

• legumes (beans, peas, and lentils).

Eat and drink less:

• tea;

• coffee;

• milk and dairy products;

• foods high in phytic acid, such as whole grain cereals, which can interfere with the absorption of iron from other foods and supplements.

Large amounts of these foods and drinks hinder the absorption of iron in your body.

What you need to know about iron tablets?

Your doctor may recommend taking iron tablets to increase iron levels. Do not take these tablets without consulting your doctor first. Taking iron tablets can cause side effects, including stomach upset, constipation, and diarrhea. If iron supplements are taken in liquid form, they can stain your teeth.

You can reduce the side effects of iron tablets by taking these actions:

• Start taking half of the recommended dose. Gradually increase to the full dose.

• Take iron in divided doses. For example, if you take two tablets daily, take one in the morning with breakfast and the other after dinner.

• Take iron with food (especially with vitamin C, e.g., a glass of orange juice, to help the body absorb iron more easily).

• If one type of iron tablet causes side effects, consult your doctor for a different type.

• If you take iron in liquid form instead of tablets, direct it to the back of your mouth. This will prevent the liquid from staining your teeth. You can also brush your teeth after taking the medication to avoid stains.