Did you know that according to the CDC about 9% of women have an iron deficiency, and that you're even more likely to be at risk if you are an active woman? You may want to pay attention if you have any of these nine signs you may be at risk!
Fatigue
Feeling tired? According to Vanderbilt Center for Integrative Health nurse practitioner Blair Morriss, "the body uses iron to make hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen." Exhaustion is a symptom of your body not producing enough healthy blood cells.
Difficulty Focusing
Unfocused? Morriss explains that, "neurotransmitter synthesis may be altered in people with an iron deficiency." This can lead to functionality issues.
Apathy
Feeling overly apathetic? If you are feeling apathy toward anything and everything - friends, family, work - you may need to look into your iron levels.
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Breathlessness
Short of breath? According to Kimberly Mueller, R.D., owner of Fuel Factor Nutrition Coaching, "Without enough iron in the blood, the body becomes starved of oxygen."
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Are you looking a little lifeless? Kimberly also suggests that "A washed-out appearance can be caused by reduced blood flow and decreased number of red blood cells."
Low Stamina
Does your normal workout have you exhausted? According to a recent Cornell study, low iron levels can decrease your endurance levels.
Eyes
Blue color to the whites of the eyes. Droopy eyes are usually accompany the color change in the eyes.
Sore Muscles
If you have a good workout you're bound to have a bit of soreness for the next couple of days. If your iron levels are low, this normal amount of soreness may be inflated significantly. The lack of iron deprives your muscles of the ability to properly recover quickly.
READ: How Much Iron Is Too Much?
Brittle Nails
There is nothing worse than trying to give yourself a manicure and your nails are frail and thin. The lack of iron can also cause your nails to have concave grooves in them as well.
Infections
Do you often find yourself sick? Respiratory illnesses are common for those with an iron deficiency, as it tends to make your immune system weak.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org General Health center for more helpful articles and tips.
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