Iron Deficiency Anemia and Its Impact on Physical & Mental Health
Healthy View
Written by: Dr. Atousa Faraz, ND, Naturopathic Doctor, Adelaide Health Clinic
Iron deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies worldwide (Cogan et al., 2024). It can present with or without anemia. Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or the amount of hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport throughout the body (World Health Organization (WHO), 2023). Anemia can go unnoticed for years or even decades before being detected through a blood test and addressed (Cogan et al., 2024). This can negatively impact an individual's quality of life and day-to-day functioning.
Iron deficiency anemia can result from several factors. The most common cause is inadequate dietary intake of iron, often seen in individuals with poor nutrition or restrictive diets. Chronic blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding (due to ulcers, hemorrhoids, or cancer), or frequent blood donations, can deplete iron stores. In some cases, malabsorption disorders like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease hinder the body's ability to absorb iron. Increased iron demand during pregnancy, infancy, or periods of rapid growth can also contribute to deficiency. Additionally, certain medications, like proton pump inhibitors, or conditions like chronic kidney disease, can impair iron absorption or increase its excretion. Dairy products, due to their calcium content, can interfere with iron absorption, potentially exacerbating deficiency, especially when consumed in large amounts around iron-rich meals.
Iron deficiency anemia can manifest with the following physical symptoms:
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Fatigue and Weakness – Feeling tired or weak, even after adequate rest, is one of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), 2023).
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Pale Skin – Iron deficiency can cause paleness, especially in the face and the lining of the lower eyelids (WHO, 2023).
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Shortness of Breath – People with iron deficiency may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity (WHO, 2023).
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Dizziness or Light headedness – Iron deficiency can lead to dizziness or feeling faint, due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues (WHO, 2023).
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Cold Hands and Feet – Poor circulation due to low iron levels can make extremities feel unusually cold (NHLBI, 2023).
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Headaches – Reduced oxygen delivery to the brain can cause headaches or migraines (WHO, 2023).
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Cravings for Non-Food Substances (Pica) – Some individuals with iron deficiency may crave non-nutritional substances, such as dirt, clay, or ice (Lopez et al., 2004).
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Restless Legs Syndrome – Iron deficiency can contribute to uncomfortable sensations in the legs, particularly at night (Allen et al., 2018).
Furthermore, iron deficiency can also have negative impacts on mental health, affecting mood, and overall psychological wellbeing (Levin & Gattari, 2023). Research has shown that individuals with iron deficiency are at increased risk for a variety of mental health challenges, including fatigue, low mood, anxiety, and restlessness (Arshad et al., 2023). Here is an overview of the impact of iron deficiency on mental health:
Fatigue and Reduced Mental Performance:
Mental fatigue is one of the most reported psychological symptoms in people with iron deficiency. The lack of iron results in decreased oxygen delivery to the brain, which can cause poor concentration, difficulty focusing, and an overall sense of mental sluggishness (Greig et al., 2013). This mental fatigue is often linked to physical fatigue, but it may also occur independently, affecting a person's ability to function effectively in work or social settings.
Depression and Anxiety:
Several studies suggest that correcting iron deficiency can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially in individuals with mild to moderate forms of depression and anxiety (Arshad et al., 2023).
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Sleep Disturbances:
Iron deficiency is a known contributing factor to Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a condition that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, often at night. RLS can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to sleep deprivation, which in turn exacerbates mental health symptoms like irritability and mood swings (Allen et al., 2018).
Iron deficiency not only affects physical health but also significantly impacts mental health. From mood disorders like depression and anxiety to cognitive difficulties and sleep disturbances, iron deficiency can compromise psychological wellbeing (Lee et al., 2020). Treatment and supplementation to restore iron levels have shown promise in improving these symptoms, underscoring the importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies for both physical and mental health. You can get tested for iron deficiency, and Dr. Atousa Faraz, BSc (Hon), ND, can assess any potential nutrient deficiencies in your diet. She will help you review your diet and supplement regimen to ensure that your iron deficiency anemia is addressed. Regular monitoring and proper treatment are essential for restoring optimal health and wellbeing. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Dr. Faraz is available for both in-person and virtual appointments. To book your appointment today, please click here!
About the Author
Our naturopathic doctor, Dr. Atousa Faraz, BSc (Hon), ND has been educating, treating, and supporting patients with various health struggles and concerns for years. She takes an integrative and individualized approach to healthcare, aiming to identify the root cause of health issues. Through compassion, she combines evidence-informed therapies with holistic care. Dr. Faraz ND listens to her patients’ concerns, makes an assessment, and applies natural therapies to help the body restore health and balance.
- Acupuncture and cupping
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- Weight management and type two diabetes support
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Disclaimer:
The medical information in this article is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not create any patient-doctor relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, and treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. Dr. Atousa Faraz BSc (Hon) ND expressly disclaim responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered because of your reliance on the information contained in this article.
References:
Allen, R. P., Picchietti, D. L., Auerbach, M., Cho, Y. W., Connor, J. R., Earley, C. J., Garcia-Borreguero, D., Kotagal, S., Manconi, M., Ondo, W., Ulfberg, J., & Winkelman, J. W. (2018). Evidence-based and consensus clinical practice guidelines for the iron treatment of restless legs syndrome/Willis-Ekbom disease in adults and children: an IRLSSG task force report. Sleep Medicine, 41, 27–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2017.11.1126
Arshad, H., Arshad, A., Hafiz, M. Y., Muhammad, G., Khatri, S., & Arain, F. (2023). Psychiatric Manifestations of Iron Deficiency Anemia-A Literature Review. European Psychiatry, 66(Suppl 1), S243–S244. https://doi.org/10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.560
Cogan, J. C., Meyer, J., Jiang, Z., & Sholzberg, M. (2024). Iron deficiency resolution and time to resolution in an American health system. Blood Advances, 8(23), 6029–6034. https://doi.org/10.1182/bloodadvances.2024013197
Greig, A. J., Patterson, A. J., Collins, C. E., & Chalmers, K. A. (2013). Iron deficiency, cognition, mental health and fatigue in women of childbearing age: a systematic review. Journal of Nutritional Science, 2, e14–e14. https://doi.org/10.1017/jns.2013.7
Lee, H. S., Chao, H. H., Huang, W. T., & et al. (2020). Psychiatric disorders risk in patients with iron deficiency anemia and association with iron supplementation medications: A nationwide database analysis. BMC Psychiatry, 20, 216. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-02621-0
Levin, S. W., & Gattari, T. B. (2023). Iron Deficiency in Psychiatric Patients. Current Psychiatry, 22(3), 25-29, 34. https://doi.org/10.12788/cp.0337
López, L. B., Ortega Soler, C. R., & de Portela, M. L. (2004). Pica during pregnancy: A frequently underestimated problem. Archivos Latinoamericanos de Nutrición, 54(1), 17-24.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2023). Iron deficiency anemia. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/iron-deficiency-anemia
World Health Organization. (2021). Anaemia. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anaemia
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