Iron deficiency is a global issue and plays a significant role in human life and health, but it is especially important for women since it contributes to supporting female-specific biological functions, such as menstruation and menopause. A mighty 35% of women are iron deficient, and that number may be even higher for female athletes since iron can be depleted by moderate to vigorous activity.

Nearly 40% of young women may have low iron levels according to a recent study in jama

Iron supports muscle metabolism, healthy connective tissues, physical growth, neurological development, cellular functioning, and synthesis of some hormones for both men and women. It‘s an essential component of hemoglobin that transfers oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body and carries carbon dioxide from cells back to the lungs so it can be expelled. Additionally, iron contributes to a more effective exercise experience by increasing oxygen uptake, reducing heart rate, and decreasing lactate concentrations.

Groups at risk of iron deficiency and the health threats it presents include athletes (specifically female athletes, endurance sports enthusiasts, vegetarian athletes, and long-distance runners).

Iron depletion and deficiency progresses through several stages, from mild deficiency to full-blown anemia, with the accompanying negative physical impacts that can include gastrointestinal problems, weakness, fatigue, brain fog, and impaired cognitive and immune function.

There are, of course, many high-iron foods that can help you meet your daily iron requirement, including lean meat, seafood, nuts, beans, and fortified grains. However, those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet and those who simply dislike many iron-rich foods, will need to find an alternative source. Enter dietary supplements. There is an abundance of supplements to choose from, with many geared to specific groups, i.e., athletes, women, men, and seniors. For many of us, meeting the average daily iron requirement through diet alone is difficult so supplements make perfect sense. Listed below are three things to consider when choosing an iron supplement:

1. Groups Who May Benefit Most from Iron Supplements
   Female Athletes, Vegans and Vegetarians, Women and Children

2. Improved Absorption
   Improved iron absorption is beneficial to achieving and maintaining sufficient iron levels. Our top pick is Plexus’ IronWoman which has a probiotic to support a healthy gut microbiome and cysteine and Vitamin C for an enhanced absorption profile, to increase both supplemental and dietary iron absorption and ferritin levels.* Available at www.plexusworldwide.com

3. Iron Overload Health Risks
   When using dietary supplements, it is possible to cause iron overload, which can result in adverse gastrointestinal effects. Consult with your physician and exert caution with high-dose iron supplements and be aware of the Recommended Daily Allowance for your personal situation.

Armed with a clearer understanding of the possible causes and the impact of iron deficiency and the most at-risk groups for this issue, forge a path to a healthier, more energetic, and more productive life by eating well, getting enough sleep, and consistently using appropriate dietary supplements.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.