Natural Supplement For Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can cause a reduction in the number of red blood cells in your body and is the most common cause of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia may be caused by four distinct factors, including diets lacking in iron, body changes, gastrointestinal tract abnormalities and blood loss. Certain natural supplements may help treat your iron deficiency anemia. However, review the possible health implications associated with supplements before using them to treat your ailment.

About Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common nutritional deficiency throughout the world, reports the American Academy of Family Physicians. Some of the most commonly experienced signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include irritability, unusual paleness or reduced skin color, excessive fatigue, elevated heart rate, sore or swollen tongue, enlarged spleen and the urge to eat unusual things such as dirt -- a condition known as pica. Each person with this condition may experience symptoms differently.

Natural Supplements

Several natural supplements may be helpful in treating your iron deficiency anemia. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," iron supplements -- especially a ferrous gluconate form -- can help restore your iron levels. Other beneficial supplements may include blackstrap molasses, vitamin C plus bioflavonoids, copper, raw liver extract, chlorophyll and stinging nettle. More research evidence may be required to assess the efficacy of these supplements.

Featured Supplement

Stinging nettle is a dietary supplement that may be helpful in treating your iron deficiency anemia. Stinging nettle, a nutritious plant that is rich in iron, has traditionally been used in treating iron deficiency anemia, excessive mucus discharge and chronic inflammation. Ed Smith, an herbal medicine expert and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," states that stinging nettle may also be beneficial in treating skin rashes and eruptions, hemorrhoids and burning or difficult urination.

Considerations

Iron deficiency anemia is a serious condition that should not be left untreated. If you develop the characteristic symptoms of this condition, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to be properly assessed and treated. A knowledgeable health care practitioner can review all relevant treatment options and provide you with helpful information about dietary supplements and other natural treatment methods. Use great caution when taking dietary supplements to help treat your iron deficiency anemia.