Iron is a crucial mineral when it comes to wellness. Along with ensuring that oxygen in the blood makes its way through the body, iron also plays a substantial role in proper growth and development.
Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when low iron levels cause a decrease in the volume of red blood cells. Women are the most likely to experience this form of anaemia, and the condition often results from issues with menstruation.
Under normal circumstances, women lose about 30 to 60 millilitres of blood during their period. With heavy menstruation, women can lose as much as 80 millilitres.
Heavy periods are actually exceedingly common in women, which could explain why so many struggle with iron deficiency anaemia. However, it can be hard to identify the effects of this condition because they are similar to many other ailments and disorders. Signs can include:
Women are encouraged to address these symptoms with their doctors to determine the underlying cause. If iron levels are found to be insufficient, boosting iron in the body can improve symptoms.
Your doctor may recommend taking an iron supplement if you frequently experience heavy menstruation. Iron supplements are also beneficial during pregnancy, which is another common cause of iron deficiency anaemia. In addition to supplements, many women benefit from incorporating more iron-rich foods into their diets, including:
You may also want to address heavy menstruation with your doctor. While common, heavy periods can sometimes be caused by medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, and issues affecting the ovaries.