In women, iron deficiency can lead to "fatigue", i.e. chronic exhaustion and reduced mental and physical performance.
“Why am I so tired and exhausted?” – Iron deficiency
Iron is one of the most essential minerals for your body and pregnancy for your child’s development. It is a crucial element of the food chain; its functions and effects in blood formation, the neuro-muscular system, and numerous cell and mitochondrial functions are well described.
Iron is also used for blood formation. It is essential for the synthesis of enzymes for metabolism, the function of the respiratory chain in the cell, the immune system, and muscle function and physical and mental performance.
Iron Deficiency in Women
Causes of iron deficiency in women include iron loss during menstrual bleeding or pregnancy, an increased iron requirement that, for example, competitive athletes have, and an insufficient iron intake through food.
In non-pregnant women, iron deficiency can lead to “fatigue”, i.e. chronic exhaustion and reduced mental and physical performance. Other typical signs are hair loss, brittle nails, always feeling cold, headaches and involuntary leg movements while sleeping, the so-called “restless leg syndrome”.
Depression
A less known fact is that iron deficiency can cause a changed personality, such as feeling depressed and sad , wanting to stay home, and becoming anti-social due to a lack of energy and interest.