Dr Stephanie Ooi says it’s important to get your iron levels checked by your GP if you have any of these symptoms as new research shows one in four women are iron deficient
A doctor has shed light on the most common signs of low iron levels, which can range from difficulty focusing to feeling constantly tired and sluggish.
The latest figures from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey suggest that one in four women in the UK are iron deficient, a condition that can affect the production of red blood cells. Those who have heavy menstrual cycles are particularly susceptible, as well as pregnant women and women who engage in intense physical activity.
Dr Stephanie Ooi, a GP and spokesperson for iron supplement brand Active Iron, explained: “Iron is crucial because it’s responsible for the production of red blood cells in the body.” A deficiency can make it more difficult to transport oxygen to organs and tissues – resulting in feelings of tiredness and fatigue.
“However, low iron levels are frequently overlooked and many women aren’t aware of the connection with heavier periods.” Dr Ooi, a former NHS doctor who now practices at a private clinic in London, added: “It’s easy to brush off feelings of exhaustion as the result of a hectic lifestyle, or during the winter months, we might naturally assume it’s due to the shorter days and longer nights.”
But prolonged bouts of fatigue or any of these symptoms, whether they appear alone or in combination, should always be investigated. “Symptoms of low iron levels include: fatigue, tiredness, weakened immune function, impaired cognitive function, such as difficulty concentrating and problem-solving.”
New research by Active Iron indicates that two-thirds of women have experienced heavy periods “at least once”. Heavier periods are linked to low iron and fatigue because of the amount of blood lost during a menstrual cycle.
Around six in 10 women with regular heavier periods and half of those who occasionally suffer said they “put up with” tiredness and fatigue. Dr Ooi warned: “As well as having a huge impact on quality of life, if left untreated, low iron levels impact the immune system and may make people more susceptible to illness and infection.
“Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial, with iron-rich foods such as red meat, pork, poultry, fortified cereals and dark green, leafy vegetables being key.” However, Dr Ooi explained that sometimes diet alone isn’t enough to maintain the body’s iron levels.
Iron comes in two forms; haem, which is found in animal products, and non-haem, which is found in plants, nuts and legumes. “Non-haem iron is absorbed at a much lower rate, meaning people following vegetarian and plant-based diets may find they are still deficient, even if they eat lots of iron-rich foods.”
Anyone with concerns about their period should speak to their GP who will usually carry out a blood test. If it’s found you have low levels, you will usually be advised to take an iron supplement.
But some of these can have unpleasant side effects, including stomach cramps and constipation. “Active Iron has been developed to minimise side effects including gut discomfort,” the doctor added.
The brand is calling on women to speak up about menstrual fatigue. Learn more about your menstrual cycle and find support at activeiron.com/uk