The Impact of Low Iron on Health, Wellbeing and Behaviour

Iron is a vital nutrient in the human diet, crucial for the growth and development of the body. It is used to make two essential proteins: haemoglobin and myoglobin. These are both found in red blood cells, which work by storing oxygen in muscle and tissue, and distributing it around the body. Iron also improves the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails, and benefits some hormonal developments. For all of these reasons and more, it is clear iron is a necessity to the human body!

Despite these benefits, iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide. This deficiency stems from having an insufficient amount of iron in the body, resulting in a lack of healthy red blood cells. It can be caused by a number of factors, including blood loss, consuming too little iron in your diet, an inability to absorb iron (such as an intestinal disorder or celiac disease), or pregnancy. A lack of these healthy blood cells can lead to a shortage of oxygen in your body, causing exhaustion, fatigue, and a weakened immune system.

Initial symptoms of iron deficiency can go unnoticed due to their mild nature, however as the deficiency worsens, these symptoms increase. As well as the exhaustion previously mentioned, signs of an iron deficiency may include:

- Pale skin

- Chest pains

- A shortness of breath

- Dizziness or light-headedness

- Poor circulation

- Brittle nails

- Cravings of strange substances (such as dirt, or other inedible items)

- Reduced appetite

- There is also an association between iron deficiency in early childhood, and long-term consequences for neurodevelopment and behaviour

The nature of these symptoms clearly highlights the negative impact an iron deficiency can have on your health and wellbeing. Because of this, it is vital to see a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms, to put you on the right track for treatment.

If your iron levels are insufficient, your doctor may recommend that you take an iron supplement. However, guaranteeing you are taking the correct dosage of these supplements is vital. The amount of iron needed each day depends on your age, gender, and overall health. In general, infants and toddlers will need more iron than adults, due to the fast nature of their growth. In adolescence and adulthood, women will generally need more iron than men.

Because of this, there is no ‘one size fits all’ treatment for iron deficiency. However, speaking to your doctor can ensure you are taking the correct dosage for you, and benefitting from iron’s important functions!

If you would like more information on iron deficiency, please visit the NHS website here