Fixing iron first: Why low serum iron might be the root of your fatigue

(thanks to Dr Libby for coining this - check out her latest book here)

Feeling constantly tired, foggy, or anxious? Struggling with poor sleep, hair loss, or low mood? These symptoms might be linked to low serum iron levels, a common yet often overlooked issue. One of the first things I’ve always done with a client who comes to see me fatigued, I also ask to test their serum iron levels. Most of the time, they are within range (but remember being within range can be as low as 10, so just in range) and feeling miserable.

Understanding the role of serum iron in the body

Serum iron is essential for:

• Oxygen transport: It helps carry oxygen in your blood to every cell.

• Energy production: Serum iron is crucial for converting food into energy.

• Brain function: It supports neurotransmitter production, affecting mood and concentration.

• Immune support: Iron plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Why are so many people low in iron?

Several factors contribute to iron deficiency:

• Inadequate dietary intake: Diets low in iron-rich foods can lead to deficiency.

• Poor absorption: Conditions like leaky gut or infections (e.g., H. pylori parasites, low stomach acid) can hinder iron absorption.

• Blood loss: Heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding can deplete iron stores.

• Increased needs: Pregnancy and growth spurts in children and adolescents increase iron requirements.

• Chronic stress: Stress can impact digestion and nutrient absorption, including iron.

Who's most likely to be low in iron

• Women of reproductive age: Due to menstrual blood loss.

• Pregnant women: Iron needs increase significantly during pregnancy.

• Children and adolescents: Rapid growth phases demand more iron.

• Vegetarians and vegans: Plant-based iron is less easily absorbed.

• Athletes: Intense exercise can increase iron loss.

  
  

I have to admit, over my years, I’ve seen very few men low in iron

The importance of serum iron testing

While hemoglobin tests are common, they might not detect early iron deficiency. Serum iron tests provide a more accurate picture of your iron status, as this test is literally looking at how much iron you have in your blood!

Symptoms of low iron can include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Heaviness in your body 

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Pale skin

• Restless legs

• Cold hands and feet

• Anxiety

  
  

And that’s just naming a few. 

Boosting iron levels naturally

Incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet:

• Heme iron sources (more easily absorbed): Red meat, organ meat, poultry, fish.

• Non-heme iron sources: Lentils, beans, tofu, spinach,

  
  

Enhance absorption by:

• Consuming vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., oranges, strawberries) with iron-rich meals.

• Avoiding tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods around iron-rich meals, as they can inhibit absorption.

• Make sure you have sufficient levels of stomach acid

If you suspect low iron levels, make sure you get your bloods tested. If you are of menstruating age, I recommend testing your iron levels yearly. 

Or work with Bio Precision Nutrients to help you understand your test results and get better stats annually. Click here to find out more.