When you have a busy daily life, living from appointment to appointment, it can be easy to ignore important signals from your body. One common condition whose signals are often ignored is iron deficiency. And yet this condition can have unpleasant consequences for your health and well-being!

In this blog, we will discuss the causes of iron deficiency, symptoms of iron deficiency and offer some solutions!

Symptoms of iron deficiency

Iron deficiency can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Some common symptoms of iron deficiency include:

1. Fatigue

One of the most common complaints in people with iron deficiency is persistent fatigue, even after adequate rest.

2. Dizziness and weakness

Dizziness, weakness and pallor are often signs of decreased iron levels in the body.

3. Shortness of breath

Iron deficiency can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which can cause shortness of breath. Even with mild exertion.

4. Cold hands and feet

A lack of iron can lead to decreased circulation, which can manifest as cold hands and feet.

5. Reduced cognitive functions.

An iron deficiency can make you less able to concentrate, have a less clear mind and impair your problem-solving ability.

Possible causes of iron deficiency

Now that we have discussed the symptoms, let's look at some possible causes of iron deficiency:

1. Insufficient intake through diet.

A diet insufficient in iron, especially for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet, can lead to deficiency.

2. Blood loss

Chronic blood loss due to heavy menstruation or stomach ulcers, for example, can deplete iron stores.

3. Pregnancy

Pregnant women have an increased need for iron and can easily develop a deficiency if they do not get enough.

4. Malabsorption

Some gastrointestinal conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, can reduce iron absorption in the body.

5. Increased iron requirements.

Rapid growth in children or recovery from illness can increase the body's iron requirements.

Solutions for iron deficiency

After discussing the causes and symptoms of iron deficiency, we naturally like to share some solutions in this blog!

1. Iron-rich foods

Add iron-rich foods to your diet, such as red meat and whole grain cereals, but also consider chia seeds, sesame seeds, pistachios, Brazil nuts and cocoa.

2. Supplements

In some cases, taking an iron supplement may provide the solution. We do recommend starting this in consultation with a doctor or orthomolecular therapist to make sure you are using the right supplementation, combinations and dosages.

Wondering how a personalized supplement consultation works? Then click here!

3. Vitamin C

Combine iron-rich foods or supplements with vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, peppers and strawberries. This is because vitamin C improves the absorption of iron in the body. Also, when purchasing an iron supplement, always make sure that it contains vitamin C as a co-factor.

4. Limit caffeine and calcium intake

Caffeine and calcium can reduce iron absorption, so try to reduce these substances if you have problems with iron deficiency.

Regular checks

Have your iron status checked regularly, especially if you are prone to deficiencies. This can be done at your doctor's office or through an Energetic Morphological Blood Test.

So an iron deficiency can lead to many unpleasant symptoms and complaints. Our advice is to listen carefully to your body and not ignore possible signals. Our therapists are happy to watch and listen with you!