Iron is required by your body to produce haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that allows them to transport oxygen through the blood in your arteries.
If your body does not produce enough haemoglobin, your tissues and muscles will not receive enough oxygen to function properly. Here are some signs & symptoms of an iron deficiency.
1. Headaches
Headaches can be a sign of an iron deficiency. These headaches are caused because the blood vessels in your brain can swell and cause pressure in your head leading to a headache.
2. Tiredness
Tiredness is one of the most common and known symptoms of iron deficiency. This is caused as your body is not making enough of the protein hemoglobin which assists your body in carrying oxygen. Without this important protein, oxygen is unable to reach your muscles depriving them of energy.
3. Damaged Hair & Skin
When you do not have enough hemgoblin in your blood this reduces the amount of oxygen that your hair needs for growth. This can lead to hair loss. If you see you are losing large clumps of hair when washing or brushing this could be caused by an iron deficiency.
4. Restless Legs
Restless leg syndrome is a condition that makes your legs move whilst they are resting. It is extremely unpleasant and can worsen at night making it difficult for you to sleep. People suffering from an iron deficiency are 6 times more likely to suffer from restless legs.
5. Shortness of Breath
As your body is not making enough hemoglobin this causes your oxygen levels to be low and makes it harder for you to do activities such as walking. You will find your breathing will increase more as your body tries to make more oxygen.
These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of an iron deficiency. Other symptoms may include, cold hands and feet, poor appetite and strange food cravings.
Causes of iron deficiency could be poor diet, pregnancy and blood loss during heavy periods. Eating foods high in iron can help your symptoms.
Some foods include:
- Red meat
- Spinach
- Kale
- Seafood
- Nuts & Seeds
If you do have an iron deficiency your doctor may recommend taking an iron supplement. When looking for a supplement it’s important to make sure they are high quality and plant-derived. I use Simply Naturals Sizzling Minerals every day which you can find here.
Stay healthy
Sally
