Basal ganglia comprise a part of the brain that helps start and control movements of the body. It is located deep within the cerebral hemispheres and dysfunction and damage to the basal ganglia cells can interfere with your ability to control speech, movement and posture. Several disorders such as Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease and dystonia are associated with basal ganglia dysfunction. Injuries, infections, tumors and drug overdose increase the risk of these conditions. Low levels of iron in your body have also been associated with abnormal basal ganglia function.
About Iron
Iron is one of the most important minerals in your body. Apart from playing a crucial role in oxygen transport, iron is also an integral part of several enzymes and proteins. The National Institute of Health's (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 8 to 15 mg of iron per day, depending on your age and overall health. It can be obtained from foods such as red meats, poultry, fish, beans and lentils. However, 80 percent of the world population may have an iron deficiency, according to the NIH. This commonly leads to anemia characterized by fatigue, poor cognition, immune deficiency and inflammation of the tongue.
Link Between Iron and Basal Ganglia
The deficiency of iron can lead to excessive amounts of manganese in the basal ganglia, and this can lead to neurotoxicity, says a study published in the December 2002 issue of the journal "Neurotoxicology." The condition is commonly associated with cirrhosis of the liver, occupational exposure and unbalanced nutrition via veins. Another study in the February 2007 edition of the "Journal of Clinical Neuroscience" states that low levels of iron are associated with the formation of blood clots in the cerebral veins, which can in turn lead to lesions in the basal ganglia. Impaired absorption of iron by the neuromelanin cells in the basal ganglia may also be responsible for restless leg syndrome, according to an article in the August 2003 issue of the journal "Neurology."
Side Effects
Apart from an iron-rich diet, iron supplements may also be prescribed to basal ganglia dysfunction patients with low iron levels. The supplements are generally safe to use, although gastric disturbances, nausea and vomiting may sometimes occur. MedlinePlus also states that increased levels of iron may increase the risk of heart disease if you have Type 2 diabetes. Iron supplements may also interfere with certain antibiotics and thyroid medications.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before using iron supplements to avoid possible drug interactions and adverse reactions. Avoid caffeine as it may reduce the amount of iron absorbed by the body. Taking the supplement on an empty stomach may also increase its absorption. Inform your doctor about your pre-existing conditions and inquire whether taking this or any supplement is safe given any other medications you might be taking.
References
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Iron
- "Neurotoxicology"; T1-Weighted Hyperintensity in Basal Ganglia at Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Are Different Pathologies Sharing a Common Mechanism?; E. Herrero Hernandez, et al.; December 2002
- "Journal of Clinical Neuroscience"; Deep Cerebral Vein Thrombosis Associated with Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Adults; K. Balci, et al.; February 2002
- "Neurology"; Neuropathological Examination Suggests Impaired Brain Iron Acquisition in Restless Legs Syndrome; J.R. Connor, et al.; August 2003
- MedlinePlus: Iron
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