Following my recent post on iron rich foods, I was asked what the main signs of …
Following my recent post on iron rich foods, I was asked what the main signs of iron deficiency are. Here are some of the most common.
Some others that are not listed here include strange cravings (usually for non-food items like dirt or ice), tingling in the legs, cold hands or feet, brittle nails, getting sick easily and slow recovery, decreased sex drive.
People at higher risk of iron deficiency include:
⚫ Women with heavy periods (iron losses).
⚫ Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding (higher requirements).
⚫ Teenagers’ during periods of high growth (higher requirements).
⚫ People on vegetarian or vegan diets (lower intake).
⚫ Those who drink large amounts of tea, coffee or milk (poor absorption).
⚫ People with conditions that may cause issues with iron absorption such as Coeliac disease (poor absorption).
**It is important that you DO NOT start iron supplements unless you have been directed to do so by your doctor. Iron in high doses can be toxic for the body if you do not need it.**