Iron

What it is

Iron is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in many of your body's functions. Think of it as a tiny but mighty component that helps your body work efficiently. One of its most important jobs is to help your red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to all the different parts of your body. Without enough iron, your body can't make enough healthy red blood cells, and this can lead to problems. Iron is absorbed from the food you eat, and your body stores it in various places, such as your liver, bone marrow, and spleen. The amount of iron in your blood is measured by a test that looks at the concentration of iron circulating in your bloodstream, typically expressed in micromoles per litre (µmol/l). The normal range for iron levels in adults in the UK is generally between 5.8 and 34.5 µmol/l, though this can vary slightly between laboratories.

Why it matters

The amount of iron in your blood is a key indicator of your body's iron status. Having the right amount of iron is essential for good health. When iron levels are too low, it can mean your body isn't getting enough oxygen-carrying capacity, which can make you feel tired and weak. This is often referred to as iron deficiency anaemia. On the other hand, having too much iron in your blood, while less common, can also be a concern as excess iron can be toxic and potentially damage organs over time. Therefore, monitoring iron levels through blood tests helps healthcare professionals understand how well your body is managing this essential mineral and identify any potential issues early on.

What can cause it to be high or low

Several factors can influence your iron levels.

Low iron levels are most commonly associated with insufficient intake of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. Blood loss is another significant cause; this can be due to heavy menstrual periods in women, internal bleeding from conditions like stomach ulcers or bowel polyps, or even frequent blood donation. Certain medical conditions can also affect iron absorption, including coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Pregnancy and periods of rapid growth in children and adolescents can also increase iron requirements, potentially leading to lower levels if intake doesn't keep pace.

High iron levels are less frequent but can be linked to certain genetic conditions, such as hereditary haemochromatosis, where the body absorbs and stores too much iron. Frequent blood transfusions, where iron is introduced into the body, can also lead to elevated levels. In some cases, liver disease or certain types of anaemia that involve the breakdown of red blood cells can also contribute to higher iron readings.

Lifestyle factors that may help

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can be beneficial for maintaining healthy iron levels.

For those with lower iron levels, increasing the intake of iron-rich foods is often a focus. Discussing with your GP or a dietitian about incorporating more red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and dark leafy greens like spinach into your diet could be helpful. It's also worth noting that vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, so pairing iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, and peppers, might be beneficial.

For individuals concerned about iron overload, discussions might involve moderating the intake of iron-rich foods and avoiding iron supplements unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. Limiting alcohol consumption can also be relevant, as alcohol can increase iron absorption.

Questions to discuss with your GP

If your iron levels have been discussed with you, or if you have concerns about your iron status, here are some questions you might find helpful to ask your GP:

• What do my iron test results mean in the context of my overall health?
• Are my iron levels considered low, high, or within the normal range for me?
• What are the potential causes for my specific iron levels?
• Are there any dietary changes or lifestyle adjustments you would recommend for me?
• Do I need further tests to investigate my iron levels or related conditions?
• If I am taking iron supplements, how long should I continue to take them?