Low iron: how it affects your body
Having low iron can affect everyday life more than it seems at first glance.
An iron deficiency may seem like a common and easily curable disorder, but its consequences on the human body are far from negligible. Iron is an essential mineral for many biological functions, including oxygen transport, energy metabolism and the immune system’s general function.
When iron levels drop significantly, the entire balance of the body can be compromised.
What happens when you have low iron?
Iron is the main component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues. It is also an integral part of myoglobin, which stores oxygen in the muscles. When iron is low, the production of hemoglobin decreases, and with it the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. The result? A condition known as sideropenic anemia, causing symptoms that can significantly affect quality of life.
Low iron: symptoms not to be underestimated
Our body sends out several signals when its iron levels are low. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Chronic tiredness and mental fatigue
- Frequent headaches
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Paleness of skin and mucous membranes
- Brittle nails and hair that breaks easily
- Shortness of breath, even while resting
- Accelerated heartbeat (tachycardia)
Some symptoms are more specific. For example, eye symptoms such as blurred vision or dry eyes can occur in advanced anemia.
Low iron: when to worry?
A blood test is the first step in assessing the situation. The parameters that should be monitored include:
- Ferritin (iron deposit): values below 30 ng/mL are generally considered indicative of deficiency.
- Sideremia (circulating iron): is low if below 60 μg/dL.
- Transferrin and transferrin saturation: indicate the carrying capacity of iron.
- Haemoglobin: in case of values below 12 g/dL in women or 13 g/dL in men, it can already be considered anemia.
In the presence of altered values, especially if associated with persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor to identify the causes and arrange a targeted treatment.
Low iron: common and lesser known causes
There are many causes of iron deficiency, these can be:
1. Inadequate diet
A diet low in iron or vitamin C rich foods (which promotes its absorption) is often at the origin of the problem, especially in vegan and vegetarian diets if not well balanced.
2. Pregnancy and lactation
During pregnancy, iron requirements increase significantly to support the growth of the fetus and placenta. Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common conditions in pregnant women.
3. Blood loss
Heavy menstruation, hemorrhoids, ulcers, frequent blood donations or small gastrointestinal leaks can significantly lower iron reserves over time.
4. Inflammatory and oncological diseases
In some chronic conditions, iron is not absent but trapped inside the cells and not available to the body. This condition is often described as “inflammation anemia”.
According to a study published in The Lancet Hematology, up to 60% of cancer patients may develop anemia, due to both the disease and its treatments.
One of the most frequently asked questions is: “Which tumors lower iron?”. The most frequently associated with iron deficiency are gastrointestinal, gynecological and renal cancers.
Low iron: what to eat to help your body
An iron-rich diet is essential to prevent and counteract iron deficiency. But not all types of iron are the same:
- Heme iron (high bioavailability): found in red meat, liver, chicken and fish.
- Non-heme iron (less absorbable): found in legumes, green leafy vegetables and whole grains.
To improve non-heme iron absorption:
- Add vitamin C (citrus, kiwi, peppers) to your meal
- Avoid tea, coffee and dairy products immediately after meals
How to recover iron quickly?
When facing a real and diagnosed deficiency, food alone may not be enough. In these cases a doctor may prescribe a specific supplement. Supplements based on chelated iron bisglycinate, lactoferrin and vitamin C are now the most effective and well-tolerated solutions.
Ferridol: innovation in low iron treatment
Among the most advanced supplements is Ferridol by EIDON Salus. Its unique composition allows it to act on several fronts:
- Chelated bisglycinate iron: highly bioavailable, doesn’t irritate gastric mucosa and is completely absorbed.
- Lactoferrin: helps release iron “trapped” in cells due to chronic inflammation, improving its availability in blood.
- Vitamin C (240mg): promotes the absorption of iron and strengthens the immune system.
- Folic acid (400mcg): especially useful in pregnancy for the development of the fetus and the formation of red blood cells.
This synergy makes Ferridol not only an iron supplement, but a metabolic activator that acts on distribution and use of iron which is already present in the body.
In addition, the total absence of gastrointestinal side effects (typical of many iron supplements) makes it suitable for sensitive subjects as well.
When to use Ferridol?
Ferridol is recommended in all situations of iron deficiency, especially if:
- You suffer from iron deficiency anemia
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are prone to heavy menstrual cycles
- You are following restrictive or vegetarian diets
- You have chronic inflammatory diseases
The recommended dosage is 1 tablet per day, preferably in the evening before sleep.
Conclusions
Low iron is not just a passing annoyance, but a warning bell that the body sounds when its energy and vital reserves are running out. Ignoring symptoms or relying on generic supplements may not be enough, especially in the presence of particular inflammatory or physiological conditions such as pregnancy.
Choosing a targeted and scientifically effective approach such as the one offered by Ferridol means not only replenishing iron, but restoring your entire body’s balance.
Consult your doctor for a customized plan based on your iron values.
FAQ
Tiredness, exhaustion, shortness of breath, headaches and difficulty concentrating. These are typical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.
When sideremia is below 60 μg/dL and ferritin is below 30 ng/mL. It is also important to do a haemoglobin test.
Yes, it can compromise the development of the fetus. A safe and targeted supplement, such as Ferridol, is often recommended by gynecologists.
Conjunctival pallor, dryness, blurred vision and visual fatigue may be signs of anemia.
