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Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency that occurs when the body doesn't have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in many physiological processes, including oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function.
Iron deficiency can result from inadequate intake of iron in the diet, impaired absorption of iron due to gastrointestinal disorders, increased iron losses due to blood loss, or increased iron requirements during growth, pregnancy, or lactation. Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and cold hands and feet.
Iron deficiency is diagnosed through blood tests that measure the levels of hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and other markers of iron status. Treatment typically involves oral or intravenous iron supplementation, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the underlying cause. Iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain, and must be carefully monitored to avoid iron overload.
Prevention of iron deficiency involves consuming a diet rich in iron-containing foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. Iron absorption can be enhanced by consuming vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and peppers, at the same time as iron-containing foods. Iron supplementation may be recommended during pregnancy or in people with chronic conditions that increase the risk of iron deficiency.
Iron deficiency can have significant health consequences if left untreated, including impaired cognitive function, decreased immune function, and decreased physical performance. It is important to diagnose and treat iron deficiency early to prevent complications and improve quality of life.