Iron levels and mental health

Checking for iron deficiency is a common conversation we have with our patients who are feeling low energy and who have a period.

Iron deficiency may cause feelings of fatigue, hair loss and brain fog - but did you know it can also impact our mental health and sleep?

It’s been found that women with iron deficiency are 52 percent more likely to develop depression, anxiety or a sleep disturbance compared to women with adequate iron levels. It’s thought this has to do with the role iron plays in the creation of different neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine & 5-HTP.

Iron deficiency often occurs in women who have a period - especially if their period is heavy, and if their diet is limited iron-rich foods. Gut disturbances can impact iron absorption, as well as certain foods such as calcium, tea, or coffee.

For some people. focusing on including iron rich foods in your diet can help sustain adequate iron levels. These include: red-meat, pork, poultry, seafood, dark leafy greens, beans.

In order for us to truly know what your iron levels are, we need to do some blood work. Fortunately this is very simple and routine! When we have this information, we can have a better sense of if you might need some extra support, or supplementation to help increase levels.

Interested in exploring ways to support your energy, mental health or investigate your iron levels? Book a complimentary meet and greet with one of our practitioners to learn more!