Iron is an essential nutrient that carries oxygen and makes energy for the body.
- Iron is an important part of haemoglobin (Hb), the red pigment which gives blood its colour. Haemoglobin is the substance that carries oxygen around your body.
- Iron is also a key component of enzymes that manufacture energy in every cell in your body this is particularly important for:
- muscles to make energy and power
- the brain to make neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin
- nerves to help communication
- immune system to fight infections
The symptoms of iron deficiency including feeling tired and exhausted, but there are also a broad range of physical and mental health aspects:
Physical
Feeling short of breath or ‘air hunger’ climbing stairs with dizziness, palpitations and chest pain. Headaches, and in severe iron deficiency, restless legs, itching or bruising. Hair loss can be a particular issue with increased breaking and shedding.
Mental
Brain fog, forgetfulness, inability to think clearly or cope as well as reduced libido. These can often be manifest as symptoms of anxiety or depression. About 1 in 6 people who have an iron infusion have been medicated for anxiety or depression when in fact they are iron deficient.
We need iron so our body can make new haemoglobin and red blood cells to carry the oxygen your body requires. Therefore, it is very important to have enough iron in our blood. In addition, iron is also essential for muscle function, energy, brain function, immune system, and enzyme functions in the body.
Contact The Iron Clinic today to discuss your symptoms.
