default-icon
Low iron levels in blood
Recently got my blood tested for iron levels which is found to be low ie 41 ug/dl against range 60 to 150 ug/ dl. Please suggest how this can be treated and do i need to seriously worry about this.
2142 Views v

Answers (1)

Like the answers? Consult privately with the doctor of your choice

Although dietary iron is important in preventing iron deficiency, people with iron deficiency anemia need more iron than they can consume through their diet alone. In a 2000 calorie diet, there is only about 10 mg of elemental iron (compared to 65 mg in one 325 mg ferrous sulphate tablet). Therefore, increasing dietary iron alone is not usually recommended as a treatment for iron deficiency anemia, although it may be recommended in combination with iron therapy. Dietary sources of iron are found in meat, grains, fruits, and vegetables. For people who do not eat meat, good plant sources of iron include whole or enriched breads or grains, iron-fortified cereals, legumes, green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, soy products, blackstrap molasses, bulgur, and wheat germ. To maximize absorption, iron-rich foods should not be consumed with coffee or tea. Taking vitamin c or drinking orange juice with high iron foods can further enhance absorption. U need to take iron supplements to prevent severe anaemia. Please check your hemoglobin and other parameters such serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, TIBC, and accordingly u can be started on treatment. However, iron supplements and multivitamins that contain iron should not be taken without consulting a Doctor, due to the potential risk of iron overdose. Most men and postmenopausal women do not need supplemental iron unless they have an underlying illness that reduces iron absorption or causes bleeding. Normally, the body absorbs iron from food through the GI tract. If the GI tract is not functioning correctly, as in people with certain conditions (eg, celiac disease, gastritis, gastric bypass surgery), an inadequate amount of iron may be absorbed, leading to iron deficiency anemia. So adequate tests need to be done to know the cause of iron deficiency and can be started on iron rich diet along with supplements after ruling out iron malabsorption.
Next Steps
Do an entire iron profile study along with comple blood picture. Take diet rich in iron.
Health Tips
Consult a doctor before starting iron supplements.
Answered
Flag this Answer
Flag this answer
1/1 people found this helpful
Was this answer helpful?

This question featured in :

Can low iron cause headache and dizziness
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.