The mistake many make in body shaping: The nutritional component they forget to check | Dr. Maya Roseman
Dr. Maya Roseman explains that iron deficiency can cause fatigue and impair daily functioning, even without anemia. A review of 18 clinical trials found that iron supplements reduced fatigue in those with deficiency, but were not proven as a weight loss treatment. The article details the absorption of heme vs. non-heme iron, the effect of vitamin C, and absorption inhibitors such as coffee, tea, and calcium.
Dr. Maya Roseman explains that iron is an essential mineral whose deficiency can impair daily functioning and the ability to lose weight. Iron enables red blood cells to carry oxygen and participates in energy production in muscle cells. Significant deficiency can lead to anemia, but one can suffer from deficiency even when hemoglobin is normal. A review of 18 clinical trials found that iron treatment reduced fatigue in people with deficiency, but no consistent improvement was found in objective physical measures. The article explains the difference in absorption between heme iron and non-heme iron, and recommends combining vitamin C to improve absorption. Coffee, tea, phytates, and calcium can inhibit absorption. At-risk groups include women with heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnant women, and people with a diet low in iron or absorption problems. It is recommended to perform a ferritin test and not rely solely on hemoglobin, and to avoid taking supplements without medical consultation.