6 signs you’re low in iron
Feeling constantly tired, looking pale and having heart palpitations? Well you could be one of the two billion people thought to suffer from some degree of iron deficiency.
Low iron is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world, and is the only nutrient deficiency that is significantly prevalent in the western world, according to the World Health Organization.
Here's how to know, and what to do if you tick all the low iron boxes
1. You suffer from fatigue (aka feel tired ALL of the time)
The body uses iron to make haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that transports oxygen around the body. When you don't have enough healthy red blood cells, you start to feel pretty exhausted.
2. You seem to get out of breath easily – even if you’re fit
When the body is not efficiently transporting oxygen to the lungs, you can feel breathlessness after minimal exertion. Low iron levels can also cause your endurance to suffer too.
3. You look pale and washed out
In addition to looking pale, if the inside of your lips, your gums, and the inside of your bottom eyelids are less red than usual, low iron may be the reason behind this.
4. You get sick often
Ever felt like you’re fighting an endless cold? Research has shown iron deficiency can affect the immune system, making you more likely to pick up infections and viruses.
5. You experience heart palpitations
Your heart may feel like it's pounding, fluttering or beating irregularly, often for just a few seconds or minutes.
6. You get unusual cravings for non-food substances such as dirt, ice, paint, or clay
Yes, this does sound very strange, but it's a real symptom that can occur when your body is low in iron – it's called pica.
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