When I was asked to write about iron deficiency I immediately said yes because it’s something I live with since I was a child. I am not alone: Iron deficiency is very common, especially among women and therefore it’s important to raise awareness! It can be treated easily and has a huge impact on wellbeing and health.
What is iron and why do we need it?
Iron is a mineral vital to the proper function of haemoglobin, a protein needed to transport oxygen in the blood. A shortage can lead to a reduced quality of life and even serious health problems.
My story of living with an iron deficiency:
The early years
Since I was a kid, I had issues with iron deficiency. I think it was discovered for the first time when I was at school and my teacher noticed that I was unusually tired and had difficulties to focus during lessons. I also remember that I often slept during the afternoon when I didn’t have school. When I went to the doctor, he tested my blood and after the diagnosis of iron deficiency, I was treated. My energy level increased and I tried to eat more food that was a good source of iron.
My story of living with a lack of iron:
The return of the deficiency
I consider myself a person who eats consciously most of the time. But the last few months have been very challenging and stressful and I didn’t take as good care of myself as I usually do. It took me a while to realise that the iron deficiency was back. For weeks I thought my sleeplessness, low mood, anxiousness and constant exhaustion came from the stress. A friend came up with the suggestion that I should check my iron. I went to the doctor, she tested my blood and told me that my iron storage was completely empty. I am taking supplements for three weeks now and it’s amazing how much more balanced I already feel.
Iron & veganism
Often people believe that a vegetarian or vegan diet is a cause for an iron deficiency. I’ve become a vegetarian when I was about fifteen and now I am vegan for a couple of years. I disagree that this diet has to lead to a deficiency as long as you eat balanced. There are a lot of good vegan iron sources such as beans, lentils, quinoa, nuts or tofu for example.
What can be done against iron deficiency
So my message is: If you think you suffer from symptoms from the list below, go to your doctor for a check-up! Iron deficiency can be treated easily and has a huge impact on your life!
Symptoms
of iron deficiency
unusual tiredness
brittle nails and hair loss
sleep disturbances
headaches & dizziness
restless legs
paleness
states of exhaustion
sensitivity to cold
More information:
check-dein-eisen.ch
