Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The World Health Organization estimates that two billion people have anemia, which is a condition that results from a lack of iron in the body. Anemia occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the tissues. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood. When the body is deficient in iron, it cannot produce enough hemoglobin, which leads to anemia.

Iron deficiency can have a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. In this article, we will discuss the most common symptoms of iron deficiency, as well as their potential causes and treatments. We will also provide peer-reviewed research to support our claims.

Extreme fatigue

One of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency is extreme fatigue. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s tissues. When the body does not have enough iron, it cannot produce enough hemoglobin, which means that the body’s tissues do not receive enough oxygen. As a result, individuals with iron deficiency often feel tired and fatigued, even after getting enough sleep.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that iron-deficient women had a significantly higher prevalence of fatigue compared to those with normal iron status. The study also found that iron supplementation significantly improved fatigue symptoms in these women (1). Therefore, if you are experiencing extreme fatigue, it is important to see a healthcare professional to get your iron levels checked.

Weakness

Weakness is another common symptom of iron deficiency. Iron is essential for the proper functioning of muscles. When the body does not have enough iron, the muscles do not receive enough oxygen, which can lead to weakness and decreased muscle function.