What Happens When You Have Low Iron in Your Body? A Guide for Australians

Iron is essential for your health, but many Australians may not be getting enough. Did you know that approximately 1 in 8 Australians suffer from iron deficiency? That’s over 1.1 million people! Iron plays a vital role in producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. When your iron levels drop, it can lead to a range of health issues that affect your daily life and long-term well-being.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Iron?

If your body lacks iron, you may start to notice several symptoms. The most common sign is fatigue. Without enough iron, your body can’t produce enough healthy red blood cells, which means your tissues and muscles don’t receive the oxygen they need, leaving you feeling tired all the time. Other signs include:

• Pale skin – When iron is low, your skin can become noticeably paler.
• Shortness of breath – You may find yourself getting winded easily during normal activities.
• Dizziness or light-headedness – Reduced oxygen flow to the brain can cause frequent dizziness.
• Cold hands and feet – Poor circulation due to low iron can make your extremities feel colder.
• Brittle nails and hair loss – Low iron can weaken nails and cause hair to fall out more than usual.

Why Does Low Iron Matter?

Iron deficiency, if left untreated, can lead to iron deficiency anemia. Anemia not only makes you feel constantly exhausted but can also impact your mental and physical health over time. Here’s how low iron levels can affect you:

• Cognitive function – Difficulty concentrating or focusing can become more frequent.
• Weakened immune system – You may become more susceptible to colds and infections as your body’s defense weakens.
• Heart health risks – Severe iron deficiency can cause your heart to work harder, increasing your risk of heart problems over time.

In Australia, women are particularly at risk. Up to 12-15% of Australian women of reproductive age experience iron deficiency, often due to menstruation and pregnancy demands.

Now Available: At-Home Ferritin Tests in Australia

The good news is that it’s now easier than ever to monitor your iron levels from the comfort of your home. At-home ferritin tests, such as those from TouchBio  allow you to check your iron levels without visiting a clinic. These tests measure ferritin, providing a quick and convenient way to identify iron deficiency.

If your at-home test shows low ferritin levels, you can follow up with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options, such as iron supplements or dietary changes.

What is Ferritin?

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body, releasing it when needed, making it an essential marker for determining your overall iron levels. Low ferritin levels often indicate iron deficiency.

How to Boost Your Iron Levels

Improving your iron levels starts with nutrition. Some of the best sources of iron include:

• Red meat – Beef and lamb are rich in heme iron, which is easily absorbed by your body.
• Leafy greens – Spinach, kale, and other greens are great plant-based sources.
• Legumes – Lentils, chickpeas, and beans offer non-heme iron, especially when paired with vitamin C for better absorption.
• Fortified cereals – Many cereals are enriched with iron to help meet daily needs.

If you find it challenging to meet your iron needs through diet alone, your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements to help prevent or treat deficiency.

Take Action!

Iron deficiency is a common but preventable issue. If you are experiencing symptoms of low iron or fall into a high-risk category, it’s essential to get your iron levels checked. With the availability of at-home ferritin tests like TouchBio, monitoring your ferritin levels has never been more convenient. Early intervention can prevent long-term health complications.

References:

1. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022). Australian Health Survey: First Results.
2. National Health and Medical Research Council. (2023). Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand: Iron.
3. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. (2024). Iron Deficiency in Australia.
4. Healthdirect Australia. (2024). Iron Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.