Iron deficiency

A problem affecting countless athletes, which remains undetected and untreated in many circumstances.

Low iron levels often manifest as fatigue, brain fog, and concentration problems.

While the symptoms might seem harmless, their impact on health and quality of life is far from ordinary. Doctors don’t typically screen for it, but research has shown that almost 60% of athletes have low levels of the vital minerals needed to make red blood cells.

The Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

The body needs iron for many functions, most importantly, for producing haemoglobin – a protein that transports oxygen in our blood. A deficiency of this critical nutrient can lead to an array of symptoms that are often overlooked.

The most common include fatigue, weakness, and brain fog, symptoms frequently brushed off as side effects of our fast-paced lifestyles.

Other signs to watch out for are a pale complexion, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, dry skin, and brittle nails.  

In young women, a heavy menstrual cycle is a common culprit behind low iron levels, which can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, impaired cognitive function, and even pregnancy complications.

Many of the symptoms athletes experience are related to the impact of iron deficiency on haemoglobin, a protein in the blood. Fewer blood cells are made when there’s not enough iron, which is why one may experience symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, shortness of breath or fatigue.

These symptoms may have a significant impact on young women as it can be a factor in poor academic performance and even poor athletic performance, which could lead to a negative perception of how they think about exercise. 

Keeping Healthy Iron Levels 

A balanced diet is essential for maintaining healthy iron levels. Iron-rich foods include red meat, fish, poultry, eggs, lentils, leafy green vegetables and iron-fortified grains.

Despite this, ensuring adequate iron intake through diet alone can be challenging, especially for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions.

Regular screenings for iron levels can help early detection and treatment of iron deficiency. 

When diet isn’t enough, iron supplements are a common and effective solution to combat iron deficiency. However, finding the right supplement that caters to your individual needs is vital.

Two of the main problems with common iron supplementation are that they can cause side effects (constipation and nausea) and need to be taken on an empty stomach to enable absorption.

 In conclusion, we need to shed light on the underdiagnosed issue of iron deficiency. By recognising the symptoms, keeping an eye on our iron levels, and choosing the right supplement, we can combat this silent epidemic. 

Remember, always consult your healthcare provider before changing your diet or supplement regimen. A healthcare professional can guide you towards an iron supplementation plan that best suits your individual needs.