Did you know...
That iron deficiency is a commonly overlooked cause of fatigue? 😫
There are many reasons for fatigue including poor sleep, poor diet, stress, sometimes hypothyroidism. However anemia (low ferritin levels) is one that is sometimes missed and can cause similar fatigue symptoms.
Anemia symptoms can include mental fatigue, such as confusion and brain fog, physical fatigue, hair loss and even restless leg syndrome.
Low iron intake in your diet is a common cause but some other causes to consider include celiac disease, SIBO, IBD, and heavy periods.
This is even more important to screen for in pregnancy but not often checked outside this time period.
If you are vegetarian you should be checked for anemia and B12 deficiency as these nutrients are harder to get in your diet.
Ferritin levels range from 5-272ng/ml however optimal levels are 50-150ng/ml. I have seen this number at below 10 and now be flagged!! 🚩
Another important note: If you struggle with constipation while taking your iron supplement you may want to try a different form, eg. iron bisglyincate vs. elemental iron (Feramax) as each has a different absorption rate in your digestion.
Always tired? When is the last time you had your ferritin checked?✔️