Iron deficiency is a condition that primarily affects women more than men. Iron deficiency can occur for a variety of reasons, but no matter why the condition occurs the end result can be very serious. Iron helps your red blood cells carry and deliver oxygen to every part of your body. If you think you may have an iron deficiency, consult with your physician.
Iron and Anemia
If you're a female, your body requires 18 mg of iron per day. This need increases during pregnancy to about 27 mg of iron per day. Men only need around 8 mg of iron per day. Most Americans typically get more than enough iron through diet, but those who follow certain diets or have certain medical conditions are at an increased risk of developing iron deficiency. A deficiency occurs when your body does not get the recommended amount of a particular nutrient for a long period of time.
Causes
Those who follow a specific diet, such as a vegan diet, may not always get enough iron. Red meat is a great source of iron, and protein, but when you follow a diet that restricts or does not allow very much red meat, your iron levels may become too low. Long, heavy or frequent menstrual periods can also cause a deficiency, as you lose iron when your body loses blood. A malabsorption disorder, too, such as Crohn's disease, can prevent your body from absorbing iron.
Symptoms
Low iron levels can leave you feeling weak and tired because your red blood cells are unable to deliver appropriate amounts of oxygen throughout your body. You may also feel irritable, have headaches, and concentrating and thinking can be difficult. Your nails can become brittle and you may become pale and experience lightheadedness when you stand up. You may also experience shortness of breath and the whites of your eyes may begin to take on a blue appearance.
Prevention/Solution
Even if you do not eat a lot of --- or any --- red meat, you can obtain iron in your diet by eating other foods such as leafy green vegetables, peanuts, whole grains, soybeans, oatmeal, raisins, prunes and apricots. If your iron levels are very low, your doctor may recommend an iron supplement in addition to a change in your diet. Do not take supplements without physician approval; taking an iron supplement can cause constipation and other side effects.
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