Iron, an important dietary mineral is essential in providing energy and many functions like transport of oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency is most common and prevalent, especially among women around the globe. Iron deficiency lead to tiredness, fatigue and decline in immunity and blood clotting properties.

Iron deficiency in women and children lead to Anemia. Iron deficiency also cause heavy menstruation and blood loss amongst the pregnant women. Iron deficiency is also linked to cardiovascular diseases, and growth related issues amongst infants and children.

Some of the common causes include inadequate intake of iron in the diet, inflammatory bowel disease, blood loss due to menstruation or internal bleeding and increased requirements during pregnancy. People with Celiac disease have high affinity to iron deficiency and anemia.

Fatigue and breathlessness are two major symptoms of iron deficiency. Decline in energy production, being exhausted, low levels of hemoglobin in the RBCs are some other symptoms of Iron deficiency. Respiratory issues, poor blood clots, irregular bleeding, pale skin, weakness and irregular headaches are some of the main symptoms.

Irregular heartbeats or heart palpitations may also be considered as deficiency of Iron. Desire to eat dirt, ice, or clay are also considered to be iron deficiency amongst the infants and children. It is advised that intake of iron supplements like folic-acid and ferrous sulfate along with iron-rich food such as red meat, fish, green-leafy vegetables, nuts and raisins are ways to overcome this deficiency.