BY CLAIR WHITTY
Iron is an essential mineral that your body needs every day. It plays a central role in making haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. Iron is also involved in muscle function, energy production, normal growth and development, the production of some hormones, and supports normal immune function.
However, iron is a nutrient where more is not necessarily better. Iron deficiency can cause significant symptoms and anaemia, but excess iron can also damage organs. For this reason, iron supplements should not automatically be taken simply because you are feeling tired.
The most common reasons for iron deficiency could be menstrual blood loss due to excessively heavy periods. Iron requirements increase during pregnancy because the mother’s blood volume expands and iron is needed for the developing baby and placenta. Teenage girls can be particularly vulnerable once menstruation begins.
Common deficiency signs can include tiredness, shortness of breath, palpitations and pale skin, headaches, hair loss, and restless legs. It is important to note that these signs could be related to other medical conditions and not just iron alone.
The main sources of iron include lean red meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and liver. And if you are vegetarian or vegan sources would include lentils and pulses, tofu and soya, nuts and seeds, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruit, and fortified foods. You could also include spirulina into your daily routine to provide a natural source of iron. Vitamin C can help increase iron absorption, while tea and coffee do the opposite and can reduce the amount of absorbed.
If you do know that your iron is low and you would like a natural boost of iron to support your energy, then my go to supplement is Salus Haus Floradix Liquid Iron with B vitamins and Vitamin C. It has a long history of use, and is a quality brand that I trust. It is easy to take and is suitable from 3 years of age. It is easily absorbed by the body and it tastes good too.
Iron deficiency can be identified by a simple blood test. Ask for a full blood count when you next visit your GP.
Salus Haus Floradix Liquid Iron could be the boost you need to support flagging energy at this time of the year.
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