Iron deficiency is the single most common human nutritional deficiency in both developed and developing worlds. Iron is essential for the transport of oxygen to the body's tissues.
Signs and symptoms of deficiency:
- Lethargy.
- Fatigue.
- Poor concentration.
- Shortness of breath.
- Weakness.
- Susceptibility to infection.
- Decreased ability to exercise.
- Irritability.
Common causes of iron deficiency:
- Blood loss.
- Poor absorption of foods through the gut.
- Vegetarian or inadequate diet.
- Increased requirements such as pregnancy, infancy or adolescence.
Source: Injectable Nutrients, by Dr Karel Hromek.
