Do you always feel tired, even after a good night’s sleep? Do you have trouble concentrating or suffer from memory problems? Are you short of breath or have a rapid heartbeat? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, you may be iron deficient.  

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a number of important roles in the body. It helps to transport oxygen in the blood, supports a healthy immune system, and is necessary for cell growth. When iron levels are low, it can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, a condition that causes fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. If you’re feeling run down or have been experiencing any of the following signs, you may need to take an iron supplement.  

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder in the world, and it’s especially common in women of childbearing age. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, you may need to take an iron supplement. 

1. You’re always tired

Your fatigue might mean more than just a lack of sleep.  One of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia is fatigue. If you’re unable to get a good night’s sleep and feel exhausted during the day, it could be a sign that you’re not getting enough iron. In severe cases, fatigue can be accompanied by shortness of breath and dizziness.  

2. You have trouble concentrating

You find it difficult to focus. Your mind wanders and you can’t seem to concentrate on the task at hand. You become easily distracted and forget what you were doing. This can be frustrating and makes it hard to get anything done. 

3. You’re pale

Iron is necessary for the production of haemoglobin, a protein that gives blood its red colour. So if you’re looking particularly pale, it could be a sign of iron deficiency 

4. You have brittle nails

Brittle or spoon-shaped nails can also be caused by iron deficiency anaemia as well as other health conditions 

5. You have a fast heartbeat

When you become iron deficient, your heart rate typically increases. An irregular heartbeat is another possible sign of iron deficiency anaemia. If your heart is racing or pounding, it could be because your heart isn’t getting enough oxygen due to low iron levels. When anemia becomes severe, the heart has to pump harder and faster to compensate for the decreased oxygen levels in the body.

6. You experience shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is another common symptom of iron deficiency anaemia. If you find yourself getting out of breath easily or feeling dizzy when you stand up, it’s worth speaking to your doctor. 

7. You are dizzy or lightheaded

Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is another common symptom of iron deficiency anaemia. This is due to low oxygen levels in the blood causing reduced blood flow to the brain. 

8. You suffer from headaches

Headaches are a common symptom of many conditions, but they can also be caused by iron deficiency anaemia. If you’re experiencing regular headaches, speak to your doctor to rule out other possible causes. 

Find out if you’re iron deficient 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms , it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis . Iron deficiency anaemia can usually be treated with supplements, but it’s important to get checked out so that any underlying causes can be ruled out. 

How to bring your irons levels up 

Once you have seen your doctor you can help bring your iron levels back to normal by: 

• eat more foods high in iron such as red meat, lentils and spinach
• eat more foods containing vitamin C to help you absorb iron better 
• consume less foods and drinks that stop you absorbing iron, such as tea, coffee and wine 
• take iron tablets or chewable iron supplements 
• have an blood transfusion