Anemia Iron Deficiency
What Does It Mean?
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport in the blood. This condition can cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function.
Key Physiological Imbalances:
- Inadequate Red Blood Cell Production: Insufficient iron results in reduced hemoglobin synthesis.
- Impaired Oxygen Delivery: Low hemoglobin reduces oxygen transport to tissues.
- Increased Fatigue & Weakness: Cells receive less oxygen, impairing energy production.
- Altered Immune Function: Iron plays a role in immune response and metabolic processes.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Inadequate dietary intake of iron-rich foods
- Chronic blood loss (e.g., menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding)
- Malabsorption conditions (e.g., celiac disease, H. pylori infection)
- Increased iron demand (pregnancy, growth spurts, endurance training)
- Chronic inflammation affecting iron utilization
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Pale skin and brittle nails
- Shortness of breath and dizziness
- Cold hands and feet due to poor circulation
- Frequent headaches and difficulty concentrating
- Increased heart rate (compensatory response to low oxygen levels)
Diagnostic Criteria:
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and laboratory testing.
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Ceruloplasmin | Decreased | 18.00-21.00 mg/dL |
| Ferritin | Decreased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Globulin | Decreased | 2.40-2.80 g/dL |
| Hemoglobin | Decreased | 13.50-14.50 g/dL |
| Iron, Total | Decreased | 85.00-130.00 µg/dL |
| MCH | Decreased | 28.00-31.90 pg |
| MCHC | Decreased | 32.00-35.00 g/dL |
| MCV | Decreased | 82.00-89.00 fL |
| Phosphorus (Phosphate) | Normal or Decreased | 3.00-4.00 mg/dL |
| RBC | Decreased | 4.20-4.90 Cells/µL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on restoring iron levels, improving absorption, and addressing underlying causes.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Iron | Provides safe, highly absorbed iron to restore RBC levels | 1 capsule without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Iron-Rich Foods: Consume grass-fed meats, organ meats, lentils, spinach, and pumpkin seeds.
- Enhance Iron Absorption: Pair iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods (citrus, bell peppers).
- Avoid Iron Blockers: Reduce intake of tea, coffee, calcium, and high-phytate foods around meals.
- Address Gut Health: Support digestive function for optimal nutrient absorption.