Iron is a mineral essential for various physical functions. It is responsible for the production of hemoglobin which helps red blood cells to carry oxygen in your body. Moreover, it is very important for the proper function of many enzymes. It acts as a transport medium for electrons to travel inside the cells.
Therefore, it is very important to maintain a healthy level of iron in your body. Iron deficiency can cause various health problems, including anemia.
These are the most common signs of iron deficiency:
1. Hair fall
There are many factors that can lead to hair fall, including iron deficiency. Low levels of iron will send your body in the survival situation.
During this situation, oxygen channels are run in order to support important functions which do not include hair growth.
2. Repeated Headaches
Low levels of iron prevent enough oxygen from reaching the brain. It can cause swelling in the arteries of your brain, which in turn leads to headaches.
Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of a headache. With this type of a headache, you will not be able to focus or relax.
3. Depression
Iron helps to carry oxygen in the bloodstream, so proper levels of iron are important for cognitive, motor sense, and socio-emotional development and work.
Iron deficiency can increase your risk of psychological problems, such as depression.
4. Dull Skin
Yellow skin or washed look is also related to iron deficiency. With low levels of iron, your body will not be able to produce enough hemoglobin, which is responsible for the red color of your blood and the pink brightness of your skin.
Treatment of Iron Deficiency:
First of all, make sure your diet includes food rich in iron. It is recommended to eat beef, liver, beans, oysters, fortified cereals, beetroot, pomegranate juice, and dark leafy greens like spinach.
Also, you should eat foods rich in vitamin C, including broccoli, berries, and bell peppers. This will help to boost iron absorption. Choose iron-fortified breakfast cereals and bread.
We should mention that you should avoid the excessive consumption of coffee and tea, especially around meal times. This is because they contain tannins which can interfere with iron absorption.
You can always take iron supplements! However, you should know that they can come with some side effects, including digestive discomfort, nausea, and dark-colored stools.