IN the UK it is estimated that nearly one in ten women and three per cent of men have an iron deficiency.
The body needs iron for growth and development.
A lack can lead to pale skin, unexplained fatigue and shortness of breath.
The mineral is found in lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach and fortified cereals.
Jane Atkinson looks at ways to boost your levels . . .
FEROGLOBIN CAPSULES
These have a special slow release delivery system which ensures that the release of nutrients is gradual and gentle on the stomach[/caption]
FEROGLOBIN Capsules from Vitabiotics are a dietary supplement with iron plus zinc, folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 that helps reduce fatigue, maintain normal cognitive function and normal immune system function.
A downside of iron pills is that they may cause stomach problems, such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and cramps.
But these have a special slow release delivery system which ensures that the release of nutrients is gradual and gentle on the stomach.
I had no issues while taking them.
These contain 121 per cent of the NRV of iron for an adult.
From £4.92 for 30 capsules which will last a month, from vitabiotics.com.
BLUEBERRY LIQUID
BLUEIRON, liquid iron, contains unique Fe3+ Iron which is encapsulated in a clever delivery system that enables your body to easily absorb iron at its own pace to reduce unwelcome side-effects.
Two teaspoons of the liquid a day provides 100 per NRV for adults, but this can also be given to children, age three and upwards, in smaller quantities.
It also contains vitamin C, B12, folic acid, biotin and zinc.
It is made with wild Nordic blueberries, which are harvested by hand in Finland, and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
At first this tastes fruity then there is a slightly metallic aftertaste to it, but it is not off-putting.
£12.68 for a 250ml bottle that will last a month, from amazon.co.uk.
CHLORELLA POWDER
This is just 100 per cent plant chlorella and a superfood that is packed full of antioxidants[/caption]
NATURYA Organic Chlorella Powder is a totally natural product made from algae that is a source of protein, fats, carbohydrates, fibre, chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals.
And chlorella is incredibly rich in iron.
One tablespoon (15g) contains as much iron as 700g of baby spinach.
You should take ten to 15g.
I would build up the amount you have as chlorella can cause nausea and stomach aches.
I put this into a green smoothie, had no issues and felt energised.
I love that this is just 100 per cent plant chlorella and a superfood that is packed full of antioxidants.
It is the priciest of the three at £14.99 for 200g, which is a 20-day supply if you’re taking 10g.
See hollandandbarrett.com.
Check if you have iron deficiency anaemia
Symptoms can include:
- tiredness and lack of energy
- shortness of breath
- noticeable heartbeats (heart palpitations)
- pale skin
Less common symptoms include:
- headaches
- hearing ringing, buzzing or hissing noises inside your head (tinnitus)
- food tasting strange
- feeling itchy
- a sore tongue
- hair loss – you notice more hair coming out when brushing or washing it
- wanting to eat non-food items, such as paper or ice (pica)
- finding it hard to swallow (dysphagia)
- painful open sores (ulcers) in the corners of your mouth
- spoon-shaped nails
- restless legs syndrome
