Iron deficiency is a common health problem that many Australian’s face, and is caused by a variety of reasons. If you have been diagnosed with iron deficiency or think you may be iron-deficient, keep reading for more information on the condition and how to manage it.
What is Iron?
Iron is a mineral. Your body needs it to be active and for growth and development.
Your body uses iron to make haemoglobin in blood cells. These cells then carry oxygen through the bloodstream to where the body needs it. The haemoglobin in the iron is actually what gives blood it’s red colour!
For a discussion with a doctor at the North Dandenong Clinic, please book an appointment.
How do we get Iron in our bodies?
While our bodies can store iron, our bodies cannot make iron. It must be taken from our diet or via oral supplements. Some foods that are high in iron include red meat, poultry, spinach and beans. If, you have a severe case of iron deficiency, a doctor may recommend an iron infusion, which involves taking iron directly into the vein via a drip.
How is low Iron linked to Anaemia?
Low iron levels can lead to ‘iron deficiency anaemia’, the most common type of anaemia. Insufficient iron levels prevent the body from producing adequate red blood cells which means it cannot carry enough oxygen throughout the body.
What are the symptoms of low iron?
If you have low iron levels, you may feel tired, weak, dizzy or experience recurrent headaches. These are all symptoms of low iron levels. Please speak to your doctor and request a blood test if you are experiencing these symptoms.
Food Sources High In Iron:
Iron rich foods include:
- Meat: beef, lamb, pork, kangaroo
- Organ meat: liver, kidney
- Seafood: salmon, tuna, sardines
The darker the red colour of meat or fish, the higher the iron level.
Plant foods also contain iron, for example:
- Nuts and seeds,
- Dried fruit,
- Dark leafy green vegetables: spinach, kale, broccoli
- Legumes: baked beans, lentils, chickpeas
Some foods eaten together, improve the absorption of iron. For example drinking orange juice or taking a Vitamin C supplement with an iron-rich food, will help your iron count.
Other foods and drinks that you eat with iron-rich foods can lower iron absorption. So, you should eat them between meals. For example:
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Tea (including some herbal teas)
- Calcium rich foods (eg milk, cheese)
- Some soy-bean based foods.
Does Genetics Play a Role?
Genetics can play a significant role in iron storage. Most iron deficiencies come from diet or blood loss. However, some genetic conditions affect how the body absorbs and recycles iron. In some of the more extreme cases, a person’s iron deficiency may not even respond to standard oral iron treatments.
Who is at most Risk of Having Low Iron?
Women are at most risk of iron deficiency due to losing blood during menstruation. Infants who were a low birth rate or born prematurely, may be at risk of iron deficiency. Anyone is susceptible to iron deficiency though, and can easily be tested with a simple blood test.
How Useful are Vitamin Supplements?
The doctor may recommend vitamin supplements for you to take. There are a number available on the market in Australia which are either Iron specific, or combined with other vitamins and minerals to impact your overall health
You can also talk to the Doctor or a Pharmacist regarding the brand they would recommend. Iron supplements, however, are not a quick fix, and need to be taken over several weeks or months to see results. Another blood test will be recommended once you have finished the course, so that your iron levels can be re-assessed.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I watch my diet and include iron rich foods, is this sufficient?
- A: While a balanced diet is crucial, severe deficiencies often require supplements and medical guidance for effective repletion.
Q: What happens if I don’t have an iron blood test and unknowingly have an issue?
- A: Untreated iron deficiency can lead to significant health issues, including heart problems, impaired immune function, and developmental delays in children.
Q: I’ve always felt tired. If I start iron treatment, how soon can I expect to feel better?
- A: Tiredness may be a sign of a range of health conditions, so it is recommended that you first are diagnosed with iron deficiency before starting iron supplements. While individual responses vary, many people begin to notice improvements in symptoms like fatigue within a few weeks of consistent and appropriate treatment.
How the North Dandenong Clinic can Help You
The Medical Team at North Dandenong Clinic are experienced in all aspects of health care. If due to your symptoms, a GP believes you may have an iron deficiency, he/she will recommend that you have a blood test to understand your iron count. You will be provided with a referral to take to the closest Melbourne Pathology laboratory.
Call the Reception today on (03) 9793 5395 to book an appointment to get the advice you need.
