Low iron is one of the most common symptoms of celiac disease. Learn how to choose an iron supplement that will boost iron without making your celiac symptoms worse.
]]>There are a few reasons for this. The most notable is that celiac disease can also lead to other complications, like iron deficiency anemia. And when condition crossover starts happening, figuring out the right diagnosis or treatment plan can get a bit tricky.
So how are celiac and anemia connected? And what can you do to boost iron levels if celiac disease is causing them to fall? Let’s dive in.
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac consume gluten, their immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage.
What does celiac disease feel like? Here are a few common symptoms:
Symptoms can sometimes be hard to spot or correctly diagnose. In fact, 83% of people who have celiac are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with another condition. So if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested for celiac.
How is celiac disease connected to anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common complications associated with celiac disease. That’s because when the intestinal lining gets damaged, it’s not able to absorb vital nutrients—like iron.
Iron is the nutrient that creates hemoglobin, a protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Low iron can therefore cause a lot of problems, some minor and some more serious.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?
There are so many ways that iron deficiency anemia can show up in your body. The most common symptoms include:
Here’s where things can get confusing. People experiencing these symptoms will often be tested for and diagnosed with low iron. From there, they can be treated for the deficiency and work on boosting their iron levels. Awesome, right?
Just one problem: The root cause of the deficiency (celiac disease) is not being identified. So even if iron levels are addressed, the person might continue eating gluten and fall back into the same pattern of symptoms. No wonder it can take anywhere from 6 to 10 years on average for people with celiac disease to be correctly diagnosed.
What is the best way to treat low iron caused by celiac disease?
Regardless of the cause, low iron should be treated as soon as possible.
One way to do that is through diet. Eating more iron-rich foods—like red meat, poultry, and eggs—can help you increase iron levels over time. But if the small intestine is still impacted by celiac disease, it can be difficult for all that extra iron to be absorbed into the body.
That’s why iron supplements are typically the most effective way to treat iron deficiency caused by celiac disease.
What should people with celiac disease look for in an iron supplement?
Iron pills can make the symptoms of celiac disease even worse. That’s because most iron supplements cause harsh gastrointestinal side effects, like constipation or diarrhea.
When choosing an iron supplement for celiac disease, it’s important to look for 2 main criteria:
This one’s a given. If you have celiac disease, make sure your iron supplement is certified 100% gluten-free. This ensures the supplement won’t make symptoms worse or interfere with your intestine’s healing process.
This one’s a little less obvious—but a total game-changer. Liposomal technology encapsulates the iron within a protective layer. Think of it like a barrier, shielding the iron from acid breakdown in the stomach and bypassing the damaged intestinal lining caused by celiac disease. Liposomal iron also has high bioavailability, which means it’s able to get where it needs to go quickly and efficiently.
To put it simply: Liposomal iron supplements have fewer side effects and extremely high absorption rates—similar to certain doses of IV iron.
What’s the best iron supplement for anemia caused by celiac disease?
Ferosom Forte is a 100% gluten-free Liposomal iron supplement with the highest absorption rate on the market—and the fewest side effects. Case in point: 88% of Ferosom Forte customers did not experience any side effects at all.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is the best iron supplement for celiac disease. It’s even formulated with vitamin C for an extra boost of absorption.
Celiac disease doesn’t have to run the show.
Celiac disease can feel like an all-consuming condition. The symptoms are painful and sometimes debilitating, and maintaining a gluten-free diet is the only way to manage celiac disease long-term.
But knowledge is power. By staying educated on your condition, connecting with others who live with celiac disease, and working closely with your doctor, you can take steps to combat symptoms—like iron deficiency—and significantly improve your quality of life.
RESOURCES USED:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5872748/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4541375/
https://www.buoyhealth.com/blog/supplements/best-iron-supplement-for-celiac-disease#
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/celiac-disease
https://www.beyondceliac.org/celiac-disease/facts-and-figures/]]>While countless changes can occur during this time—both fascinating and frustrating—one that often goes unnoticed is iron deficiency.
Let’s explore the connection between perimenopause and iron deficiency, the symptoms to watch out for, and how to boost your iron levels throughout menopause and beyond.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the period before menopause. Think of it as a friendly heads-up from your body that menopause is approaching. Your body starts producing less estrogen, causing symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and most notably, irregular periods.
Every woman experiences perimenopause differently. It can last anywhere from a few months to 8 years. Some people start perimenopause in their 30s, others in their 50s. Case in point: There is no “right way” that perimenopause happens. The most important thing is to take care of your health and wellbeing as much as possible when it does.
Once you have gone a full 12 months without having a period, you’ve officially moved from the perimenopause stage into menopause.
What are the causes of iron deficiency in perimenopausal women?
Imagine the least fun roller coaster you’ve ever been on. That’s what your hormones are like during perimenopause. Your estrogen and progesterone levels start fluctuating constantly, preparing your body to stop its menstrual cycle. This can cause irregular periods and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Naturally, the more blood lost per month, the more iron is lost with it. That’s why so many perimenopausal women experience depleted iron stores and iron deficiency.
What are the symptoms of perimenopausal iron deficiency?
Iron deficiency can show up in many different ways for perimenopausal women—some physical, some emotional. The most common symptoms of perimenopausal iron deficiency are:
Some studies suggest that low iron is also associated with hot flashes—an infamous symptom of perimenopause and menopause.
Many women might experience symptoms of iron deficiency that aren’t necessarily associated with perimenopause, such as:
If you’re in perimenopause and experiencing any of the above, talk to your doctor about testing for iron deficiency or anemia. You can then formulate a treatment plan to boost your iron through diet or high-quality iron supplements.
How can women manage perimenopause iron deficiency?
Finding ways to manage your iron levels during perimenopause is crucial. It protects your overall health, so your body can stay supported during this time of major change.
Diet is typically the first step to boosting your iron. Foods high in iron include:
Since the highest levels of iron are usually found in meat, vegetarians or vegans may struggle to get enough iron from their diet. Try pairing iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C, like citrus fruits or bell peppers, to enhance iron absorption.
And if eating iron-rich foods just isn’t working for you, there’s another, more convenient option: iron supplements.
What is the best iron supplement for perimenopause iron deficiency?
Iron supplements get a bad rap. They’re known for being harsh on the body and causing awful gastrointestinal side effects. But there are iron supplements that give you all the iron you could need—with none of the nausea, diarrhea, or bloating that comes along with regular iron supplements.
Enter: Liposomal iron supplements. Liposomal technology encapsulates the iron within a protective layer. This makes it easier for the iron to avoid stomach acid breakdown and be absorbed into the small intestine. In fact, the absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. (Psst. You can learn all about Liposomal iron right here.)
Ferosom Forte is a Liposomal iron supplement with the highest absorption rate on the market—and the fewest side effects. In fact, 88% of Ferosom Forte customers did not experience any side effects. Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is an effective solution for those who struggle with perimenopausal iron deficiency. It’s even formulated with vitamin C to boost absorption even more.
Make the perimenopause journey as seamless as possible.
There’s no dancing around it—perimenopause can be a time of great confusion, uncertainty, and frustration. But it can also be a time of gratitude, appreciation for your incredibly strong body, and maybe even a little laughter as you navigate new symptoms.
Whatever your perimenopause journey looks like, iron deficiency doesn’t need to be part of the picture. Talk to your doctor about how Ferosom Forte can keep your iron levels high and healthy, so you can take this transition in stride.
This rare condition is caused by a genetic mutation and can be difficult to treat. For some people with IRIDA, all the red meat in the world couldn’t boost their iron levels. So what exactly is the science behind this condition? And what can you do to spot it quickly and treat it effectively? All the answers are right ahead.
To better understand iron deficiency anemia, it helps to understand iron. Iron is a vital nutrient that produces hemoglobin—a protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body to keep you energized, alert, and strong.
Iron deficiency anemia happens when there is a lack of iron in the body. There are a few common causes:
But there’s another, lesser-known cause of iron deficiency anemia: your family tree.
Yes, iron deficiency anemia can be passed down through genetics. This is particularly true for a rare subtype called iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia—or IRIDA for short.
People born with IRIDA have a gene mutation that causes iron deficiency. This makes it harder for their bodies to absorb and store iron, even if they consume a good amount of iron in their diets.
IRIDA most commonly impacts the TMPRSS6 gene. This gene tells the body how to create matriptase-2—a protein responsible for regulating iron. If the gene stops working the protein does too, and so does your body’s ability to absorb and use iron properly.
The result? Iron deficiency anemia. However, this specific form of iron deficiency anemia is rare. To get IRIDA, both your parents must have the gene mutation and you must receive both copies. That’s why only about 1 in every 1 million people around the world have IRIDA.
IRIDA and regular old iron deficiency anemia share a lot of the same symptoms:
So how do you know if you have IRIDA or iron deficiency anemia? One distinguishing factor is that IRIDA is usually diagnosed during childhood.
Luckily, IRIDA does not seem to impact a child’s growth and development. Some kids will experience regular anemia symptoms, like fatigue and weakness. In rare cases, children with iron deficiency anemia might experience:
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your child, talk to your doctor about testing for iron deficiency anemia. Although many cases of IRIDA resolve with age, early diagnosis is crucial to manage and address the condition effectively.
Every case of IRIDA is unique and so is the treatment approach. Your doctor will tailor a treatment plan specifically to you or your child’s needs.
Iron supplements are usually the first course of action. A Liposomal iron supplement ensures your body can absorb the highest amount of iron without acid breakdown in the stomach (and the harsh gastrointestinal side effects that come along with it).
Your doctor might also suggest taking vitamin C with your iron supplement to further boost absorption. A 2019 research study found that 10 weeks of iron and vitamin C supplementation significantly improved iron levels in children with IRIDA.
(Pro tip: Supplements like Ferosom Forte are already infused with vitamin C for added convenience.)
If iron supplements aren’t working, your doctor might prescribe regular IV iron infusions. Regardless of the treatment plan, you should monitor your iron levels regularly and address symptoms ASAP to improve your quality of life.
Ferosom Forte is a Liposomal iron supplement with the highest absorption rate on the market—and the fewest side effects.
Liposomal technology encapsulates the iron within a protective layer. This makes it easier for the iron to be absorbed into the small intestine and stored for later use. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron—making it an incredibly effective iron supplement for IRIDA and other forms of iron deficiency anemia.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, doctors across Canada recommend Ferosom Forte to give your iron levels the boost they need.
IRIDA and iron deficiency anemia can feel like overwhelming challenges. But reading this article is the first step to taking control of your condition. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and tap into helpful resources, like the Ferosom blog, to learn how different factors might be impacting your health. The more you know, the more empowered you’ll feel.
REFERENCES USED:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-iron-deficiency-anemia-be-genetic#diagnosis
https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/irida
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1079979618304170
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2012004/article/11742-eng.htm#:~:text=Iron%20deficiency%20affects%2020%25%20to,%25%20to%202%25%20in%20males. ]]>In this article, we’ll explore the links between IBS and iron deficiency anemia and how a Liposomal iron supplement can be a game-changer for those affected by both conditions.
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disorder that comes with a world of frustrating and unpleasant symptoms. Stomach pain, bloating, gas, inflammation, cramps, diarrhea, constipation, mucus in your stool—you get the picture.
Unfortunately, researchers don’t know exactly what causes IBS. It could be gut bacteria, infection, food intolerances, or even childhood stress. On top of that, everyone’s IBS symptoms and triggers are unique, which makes the condition even more complex to solve.
But what researchers do know is that IBS is caused by a miscommunication between your brain and your gut. When the two aren’t working together properly, your digestive function starts to break down. We also know that women are twice as likely to get diagnosed with IBS.
(Ironically, anemia is also more common in women. But more on that later.)
What are the different types of IBS?
When it comes to bowel movements, most people have normal days and flare-up days. IBS is categorized based on how your stool looks during flare-ups. There are 3 main categories:
It’s important to work with your doctor to find out which type of IBS you have. The type of treatment you’re prescribed will depend on your category of IBS.
Can IBS lead to iron deficiency anemia? Why?
What is iron deficiency anemia? It’s a condition that occurs when your body lacks hemoglobin—the molecule formed by iron that helps transport oxygen to the rest of your body. When you have low iron, your hemoglobin drops too.
IBS doesn’t cause anemia but it does increase the risk of developing it. There are a few reasons for this.
First, many people with IBS avoid certain iron-rich foods to steer clear of symptoms. Without that natural iron intake, the body can become iron deficient.
Second, the changing bowel movements associated with IBS can hinder iron absorption. Diarrhea, in particular, can cause iron to leave the body before being absorbed for hemoglobin production. Over time, this depletes your body’s iron stores and causes iron deficiency anemia.
What are the common symptoms of anemia?
The many symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include:
If you have IBS and you’re also experiencing any of the above symptoms, talk to your doctor about how to increase your iron intake through diet or high-quality iron supplements for anemia.
What is the best iron supplement for IBS?
Most iron supplements cause nasty gastrointestinal side effects. That’s why it’s crucial for people with IBS to choose an iron supplement that will boost their iron levels without angering their digestive symptoms. The answer: Liposomal iron supplements.
Liposomal technology encapsulates the iron within a protective layer. This makes it easier for the iron to avoid stomach acid breakdown and be absorbed into the small intestine. In fact, the absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. (Psst. You can learn all about Liposomal iron right here.)
Ferosom Forte is a Liposomal iron supplement with the highest absorption rate on the market—and the fewest side effects for our friends with IBS (in fact, 88% of Ferosom Forte customers did not experience any side effects). Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is an effective solution for those who struggle with IBS and iron deficiency anemia.
Don’t let IBS mess with your iron.
Understanding the connection between IBS and anemia is so important. Now that you know how the two are linked, you can start taking action to avoid iron deficiency. Pay close attention to your dietary choices, seek regular advice from your trusted medical team, and take a Liposomal iron supplement to protect your well-being. Because you deserve to feel healthy, energized, and empowered in managing your condition.
REFERENCES:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4342-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ibs-and-anemia#low-iron-signs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6175559/]]>Iron supplements are an effective and convenient way to reduce your risk of iron deficiency anemia and improve your overall health. But consistency is key for any supplement, especially iron. If you struggle to stay on a supplement schedule, here’s why consistency is so vital to increase iron levels—plus our top tips for getting the most out of your iron supplement.
Why is it important to be consistent with supplements?
The benefits of supplements can feel like magic—but the magic doesn’t happen overnight. Consistency is necessary for experiencing the full effects of supplemental vitamins and nutrients. It takes time for nutrients to build up in the body and make a difference in your health.
“So, can’t I just double up my dosage?” Not so much. Your body actually absorbs nutrients better in smaller, more consistent amounts. Taking a bigger dose will cause the excess nutrients to leave the body without being absorbed. It could also cause potential harm, depending on the supplement.
Why is consistency especially important with iron supplements?
Iron is a crucial mineral that transports oxygen throughout your body. Low iron can cause many parts of your body—muscle strength, brain function, and beyond—to stop working properly and ultimately cause iron deficiency anemia.
Staying consistent with your iron intake will help you maintain the necessary flow of oxygen and avoid symptoms of iron deficiency, such as:
How often should you take your iron supplements and when will you see results?
Every iron supplement is different, so it’s important to read the instructions carefully.
For Ferosom Forte, take one sachet or capsule per day. Some people experience benefits within the first 4 weeks of taking it, but we still recommend taking Ferosom Forte daily for 3 to 6 months to see a significant improvement in iron levels.
What are tips for staying consistent with your iron supplement?
Sure, consistency is key. But learning how to be consistent is a skill in and of itself. Here are our top tips for remembering to take your iron supplement at the same time every day.
What are the benefits of iron supplementation?
It’s difficult to get enough iron from your diet alone. For women especially, monthly blood loss during menstruation can make iron levels a constant battle. High-quality iron supplements can make up for the lost iron or lack of dietary iron in one simple, daily dose.
And once it kicks in, you’ll experience so many amazing benefits of supplemental iron:
What is the best iron supplement?
Ferosom Forte has the highest absorption rate on the market with the fewest side effects. Unlike other iron supplements that cause painful and frustrating gastrointestinal side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines.
It’s also microencapsulated in Liposomal form—an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. You can learn all about Liposomal iron right here.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is recommended by doctors as the best iron supplement to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Talk to your doctor about your unique iron needs.
Everyone’s iron needs are different. Before taking any supplements, consult a doctor to get a custom dosage tailored to your body. Together, you can find the right iron supplement and pair it with beneficial lifestyle changes to make a difference in your iron levels and overall health.
]]>How can you spot iron deficiency anemia in children and boost their iron levels safely? Everything you need to know is below.
Why is iron important for children?
Iron is an essential nutrient for a child’s growth and development. It produces hemoglobin—a protein that helps carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Muscle, brain, and cardiovascular development all depend on oxygen being transported and stored effectively.
Low levels of iron in children can stunt their growth and potentially lead to iron deficiency anemia.
What causes iron deficiency anemia in children?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most severe form of iron deficiency. It’s characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, impacting all sorts of functions in the body.
What causes iron deficiency anemia in children? A number of factors could be at play:
Discovering the cause of your child’s iron deficiency is a great way to improve their iron levels over time.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia in children?
The tough part about low iron is that the symptoms aren’t always obvious. For most kids, symptoms don’t show up until they’ve already developed iron deficiency anemia. Not to mention your child might not be able to communicate their symptoms, depending on their age.
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include:
If your child is experiencing any of the above, talk to your doctor about testing for iron deficiency anemia.
What is the recommended daily iron intake for children?
Recommended daily iron intake varies depending on a child’s age and gender. In general, this is how much iron your child needs to fuel their growth:
Why do teenage girls need more iron than boys? Blood loss during menstruation puts girls at a higher risk of iron deficiency. As they grow into adulthood, girls will continue to need significantly higher levels of iron than their male peers.
How can children be treated for iron deficiency anemia? Or prevent it from developing in the first place?
Achieving healthy iron levels can be hard, especially if your child is a picky eater. But there are ways to improve iron deficiency and even prevent it from developing—in babies and beyond.
Implement an iron-rich diet
This is step one. Serve your child foods that are high in iron, like red meat, chicken, fish, iron-fortified cereals, beans, nuts, and dark leafy greens.
Iron-fortified formula, baby cereal, pureed meats, and pureed beans are all great options to keep your infant’s iron levels in check. If you’re breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about incorporating an iron supplement into your baby’s feeding routine.
Take it easy on the milk
In large quantities, cow’s milk can prevent iron absorption and limit the intake of iron-rich foods. Try to make sure your child isn’t drinking more than 32 ounces of milk per day.
Boost absorption with vitamin C
Vitamin C is proven to enhance iron absorption. Pair your child’s iron-rich foods with a source of vitamin C—like citrus fruits, strawberries, bell pepper, tomatoes, or dark leafy greens—to help their body absorb as much iron as possible.
Get a high-quality iron supplement
Can’t get your child to eat their iron? Try an iron supplement instead.
There are many different types of iron supplements to suit your child’s needs, from capsules to dissolvable sachets. The best iron tablets to take have high absorption rates without any harmful side effects, like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Even better, look for iron with vitamin C to enhance absorption even more.
What are the best iron supplements for children?
Ferosom Forte has the highest absorption rate on the market with the fewest side effects. Best of all, it’s infused with vitamin C for an extra absorption boost.
Unlike other iron supplements that cause painful and frustrating GI side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines.
Ferosom is available in two forms: capsule and sachet. The sachets have a sweet berry flavour and are easily dissolved into any drink—which makes them a huge hit for kids and helps them stay consistent with their iron intake. Plus the sachets can be divided based on your child’s iron needs. For example, if your child isn’t anemic they might only need half of the sachet.
Ferosom Forte is safe for all ages. However, we always recommend consulting a healthcare practitioner before your child starts any new supplement and asking about the right dosage for their needs.
]]>So peel yourself an orange and read on to discover the many health benefits of vitamin C, how to spot vitamin C deficiency, and how to incorporate more of this crucial vitamin into your daily diet.
What are the health benefits of vitamin C?
Honestly—what aren’t the benefits of vitamin C? This ascorbic acid is like a super booster for your whole body. That’s why it’s a vital nutrient for good health.
How does vitamin C keep your body functioning at its best? Let’s count the ways.
Vitamin C is known for its antioxidizing and immune-boosting abilities. It reduces inflammation and lowers the risk of developing certain conditions, from cancer to scurvy to the common cold.
If your connective tissue was a movie, collagen would be the star. It makes up about 2% of muscle tissue and is a vital component for healthy tendons, skin, cartilage, bones, blood vessels, ligaments, and gut function.
Your body needs vitamin C to produce collagen and keep these crucial fibrous tissues strong and healthy.
Vitamin C also helps your body produce L-carnitine and some neurotransmitters—both of which are important for brain and body health.
All this collagen production makes vitamin C an excellent wound healer. It helps build up skin, muscle, and other tissue that has been damaged. If you’re recovering from a wound, your doctor might recommend upping your vitamin C intake.
ROS—or reactive oxidative species—are unwanted substances (like free radicals) that develop in the body due to inflammation, exposure to pollution, and other factors. ROS can cause oxidative stress and cell damage, so it’s important to remove them before they do.
Since vitamin C is an antioxidant, it’s incredible at destroying ROS and reducing the risk of developing cancer and other conditions.
Several studies have looked at the impact of vitamin C on your cardiovascular system. It’s been shown to widen the blood vessels, improve nitric oxide production, and help reduce plaque instability.
All of these benefits—plus its antioxidant properties—make vitamin C a worthy candidate to prevent heart disease and high blood pressure.
A 2019 study found that vitamin C supplements improved glucose levels and blood pressure for people with diabetes. More studies need to be done, but the results are promising for diabetes treatment moving forward.
Allergic reactions are frustrating and scary. The inflammatory response in your body can lead to swelling, hives, itchiness, and more. Meanwhile, your body produces free radicals that can cause more oxidative stress.
Fortunately, vitamin C might be able to help. Studies have shown that certain doses of vitamin C have the potential to not only soothe allergy symptoms, but prevent them altogether.
Motion sickness knows how to ruin a good time. If you’re tired of avoiding long road trips and boat rides, vitamin C could help.
One study found that people who took vitamin C supplements experienced lower levels of seasickness than those who didn’t. More studies need to be done, but it’s worth packing extra vitamin C for your next trip.
Many studies have looked at the impact of vitamin C on certain cancers. Since it’s such a strong antioxidant and ROS destroyer, vitamin C may have the ability to slow cancerous tissue growth and prevent cancerous cells from forming. Currently, IV vitamin C is not FDA-approved to treat cancer.
Iron is a vital nutrient for your health. It produces hemoglobin—a protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Still, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world.
Luckily, vitamin C is iron’s best friend. Many studies have shown that vitamin C improves hemoglobin recovery, iron absorption, and iron stores. Simply taking a vitamin C supplement alongside an iron-rich meal could help treat iron deficiency.
Pro tip: It can be difficult to get enough iron from diet alone. Choose an iron supplement that is already infused with vitamin C, like Ferosom Forte. This will ensure you get the right amount of iron daily and that absorption levels stay high.
How much Vitamin C do I need?
Vitamin C is water soluble and our bodies don’t store it. In other words: we need to make sure we’re consuming the right amount every day.
The recommended daily vitamin C intake for people over the age of 19 is 90mg for males and 75mg for females.
Requirements for people younger than 19 vary, but babies need more vitamin C than older children. The recommended intake for ages 0 to 12 months is 40 to 50mg per day. Similarly, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need additional vitamin C.
What happens if I have low vitamin C levels (or vitamin C deficiency)?
Since vitamin C has so many health benefits, a lack of vitamin C can show up in countless ways throughout the body. Signs of vitamin C deficiency include:
Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. Together you can create a plan to increase your vitamin C intake and address any related health concerns.
How can I incorporate vitamin C into my daily diet?
Good news: vitamin C tastes really good. Here are some of the most vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables to add to your diet:
For many people, diet isn’t enough to get all the vitamin C they need. That’s where supplements come in.
There are so many types of vitamin C supplements: capsules, chewables, dissolvable sachets, pre-mixed drinks. Shop around to find your favourite—and always check the label to make sure it contains your recommended daily intake of vitamin C in each dose.
Some supplements mix vital nutrients like iron with vitamin C, so you can get everything you need in a single dose.
What is the best iron supplement for iron deficiency and vitamin C intake?
Ferosom Forte has the highest absorption rate on the market with the fewest side effects. Best of all, it’s infused with 70mg of vitamin C per dose to provide all the health benefits above—and boost iron absorption in the process.
Unlike other iron supplements that cause painful and frustrating gastrointestinal side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines.
It’s also microencapsulated in Liposomal form—an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. You can learn all about Liposomal iron right here.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is recommended by doctors as the best iron supplement for anemia and an effective part of your daily vitamin C intake.]]>Let’s explore how warm weather impacts your iron and, more importantly, how to keep your iron levels balanced all summer long.
How does iron regulate your body temperature?
Iron’s main job is to deliver oxygen throughout your body. This helps with blood circulation and thermoregulation—your body’s ability to maintain a healthy temperature. If iron levels are low, that internal thermostat stops working.
For most people, this manifests as feeling cold all the time. In fact, cold hands and feet are some of the first signs of iron deficiency anemia. But it also impacts your ability to react to external temperatures.
How does warm weather impact those with iron deficiency anemia?
On a hot summer day, your body is designed to tell you when it’s getting overheated. Your brain signals that it’s time to seek shade, drink water, or head inside to the A/C.
But if you have poor thermoregulation caused by low iron, your body might not recognize the rising temp. This can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat intolerance.
A few common signs of these conditions include:
What’s worse? High heat can actually stop your red blood cells from working properly, making it harder to manage your iron levels.
How can you boost iron levels through your diet?
There are two types of iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron comes mostly from animal sources while non-heme iron typically comes from non-animal sources—fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes.
Your body tends to absorb heme iron better than non-heme. To increase iron absorption, pair non-heme iron with a source of vitamin C and/or a high-quality iron supplement. It’s a simple and effective way to get all the health benefits of fruits and veggies, without sacrificing your iron levels.
Looking for delicious recipes to boost your iron intake this summer? Find our iron-rich summer recipe guide right here.
What are seasonal vegetables and fruits with high iron?
There’s nothing better than fresh seasonal fare in the summer. Bonus: So many fruits and vegetables are high in iron. Here are a few favourites to add to your diet:
Most of these foods are also high in vitamin C, which boosts iron absorption and immune function at the same time. Berries are especially good at increasing absorption rates. Pro tip: Dried fruits, like apricot and prunes, have a lower water content, which means the iron content is more concentrated.
Which refreshing summer drinks increase iron absorption?
Fresh juices, smoothies, and dissolvable iron supplement sachets are a tasty and refreshing way to boost iron absorption during hot months.
Orange, pear, prune, and tomato juices are all extremely high in vitamin C. Blend them with one sachet of Ferosom Forte iron supplement and you’ve got your daily dose of iron completely covered.
Big fan of smoothies? There are so many simple smoothie additives that can increase your iron intake. Sesame seeds, spirulina, hemp seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, and almond butter are all high in iron.
What are the best iron supplements for anemia and low iron?
Ferosom Forte has the highest absorption rate on the market with the fewest side effects, making it the best iron supplement for increasing iron levels in the summer (and all year round).
Unlike other iron supplements that cause painful and frustrating gastrointestinal side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines. Best of all, it’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C for extra-high absorption (just like all those fruits and veggies we told you about).
What does Liposomal mean? It’s an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. Yep—that’s a really good thing.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is recommended by doctors as the best iron supplement for anemia. Add it to your summer diet and get back to soaking up the summer months while your iron levels get a boost!]]>From periods to pregnancy, let’s explore the reasons why women are more prone to anemia and what you can do to avoid iron deficiency for the long run.
What is anemia?
Ever wondered how your body gets all the oxygen it needs to function properly? You have red blood cells to thank. These essential vessels carry oxygen and other nutrients to your vital organs. They’re powered by a protein called hemoglobin, which is made of iron.
A lack of red blood cells in the body can lead to a condition called anemia. The most common type is iron deficiency anemia (IDA). It’s caused by low iron, which in turn causes low hemoglobin, which in turn causes a low red blood cell count. Think of it like the least fun game of dominos ever.
Still with us? Good. Here are a few symptoms of iron deficiency anemia to watch out for:
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested for iron deficiency anemia.
Why is iron deficiency anemia more common among women?
According to the World Health Organization, 30% of women aged 15-49 had anemia in 2019 alone. Why is the percentage so high? Let’s discuss.
Periods
As if periods weren’t annoying enough. They’re also one of the main reasons women struggle with iron deficiency anemia.
Heavy menstrual bleeding or prolonged periods can cause a lot of iron to be lost through blood. And even if you have an average flow, it’s challenging to supplement the iron loss through diet alone.
Pregnancy
Growing a human inside you is hard work. A significant portion of the nutrients normally reserved for your body are transferred to your little one. Iron is an especially important nutrient for fetuses as their organs develop.
Naturally, iron deficiency anemia is a common condition for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Blood loss during childbirth or a C-section can also contribute to the lack of iron.
Absorption issues
Some women simply have a harder time absorbing iron. This can be due to a number of factors, including digestive conditions and intestinal or stomach surgery.
Exercise is another big contributor to absorption issues. Runners are especially at risk, with 56% of joggers suffering from an iron deficiency. That’s because endurance sports can release iron-blocking hormones and cause iron loss through sweat and foot strikes. (Read more about iron deficiency and running here.)
Other medical conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, and obesity can make it difficult for your body to absorb and regulate iron.
Needing more iron than men
Due to, well, all of the above, women need to consume more iron than men. Unfortunately, studies show that’s not easy to do. According to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey, 90% of women don’t meet their daily iron requirements compared to just 15% of men.
What is the recommended iron intake for women compared to men?
Most men have the same recommended iron intake for life. But starting at age 14, women need much more iron per day—especially if they’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
14 to 18 years:
19 to 50 years:
Is there an age when women require more iron?
Why is 14 such a significant age for women and their iron needs? Simple: puberty. 14 is the average age that a woman gets her period. Suddenly, she’s losing a significant amount of blood each month that she wasn’t losing before. More iron is needed to supplement the blood loss.
How can women incorporate iron into their diets?
There are so many iron-rich foods that women can incorporate into their diets. A few of our top choices include:
While it might be easy to add these foods to your dinner plate every night, it’s not always a perfect solution to iron deficiency anemia. Absorption issues, regular blood loss, and other factors can still block your body from getting the iron it needs. Vegetarians and vegans are especially at risk since animal products are a main food source of iron.
Luckily, iron supplements can fill in the blanks and help stop iron deficiency anemia over time.
What are the best iron supplements for women?
Ferosom Forte has the highest absorption rate on the market with the fewest side effects, making it the best iron supplement for women.
Unlike other iron supplements that cause painful and frustrating gastrointestinal side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines. Best of all, it’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C for extra-high absorption.
What does Liposomal mean? It’s an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. That’s what makes Ferosom Forte the most effective iron supplement for women. You can learn all about Liposomal iron right here.
Available in both capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is recommended by doctors as the best iron supplement for anemia.
]]>But the type of iron supplement you choose can mean the difference between symptom relief and symptom overload. It all comes down to dosage, absorption, and a little something called liposomal iron. Here’s why some iron supplements have such a high dosage—and how to choose the best iron supplement for anemia.
Why do we need iron?
Iron makes hemoglobin, a protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. It’s a vital nutrient for almost every function in your body. Most people get iron from food, especially red meat and poultry.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of factors that can make it hard for iron to be absorbed, stored, and transmitted in the body. Digestive conditions, vegetarianism, menstruation, pregnancy, and old age can all contribute to iron deficiency and anemia. That’s why up to 25% of the world’s population suffers from low iron.
How do you know if you have an iron deficiency? Here are a few signs:
Luckily, iron supplements can help. Oral iron is usually the first treatment your doctor will prescribe. Other forms of treatment include dietary changes, iron infusions, or IV iron.
What are the downsides of conventional oral iron supplements?
Conventional oral iron supplements can effectively increase your iron intake. But they also have a bad reputation.
Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and gas are just a few of the side effects associated with conventional oral iron supplements. 70% of people who take these supplements experience gastrointestinal side effects. Understandably, 50% of people don’t take their iron supplements as prescribed.
These tummy issues are especially difficult for pregnant women and people who suffer from conditions that already impact their GI tract, like inflammatory bowel disease or chronic kidney disease. Plus, studies show that high doses of iron supplements can actually decrease iron absorption for people with these conditions.
Why do conventional oral iron supplements have such a high dosage?
The short answer? Because of everything you just read.
The long(er) answer? Since conventional oral iron supplements cause side effects that decrease absorption, you need to take more iron. But as we know, more supplemental iron can also decrease absorption.
In fact, many iron supplements with 150mg per dose (like Feramax, for example) only have about a 10-15% absorption rate. Naturally, a much higher dose of iron is required.
So the more conventional iron supplements you take, the more side effects you experience, and the less iron is getting absorbed into your bloodstream? No thank you.
What is liposomal iron?
Liposomal iron is the answer to all these conventional iron problems.
To understand liposomal iron, you need to understand liposomes. These tiny, fat-soluble sacs carry nutrients to different parts of your body. The best part about liposomes is that they aren’t impacted by water or other elements as they travel from A to B. This makes them the perfect vehicle to protect a nutrient from harm.
Conventional oral iron supplements deliver what’s known as free-floating iron, which means they aren’t protected by liposomes.
Enter: liposomal iron. When iron is delivered by a liposome, it guards against acid breakdown, boosts absorption, and protects you from all those awful gastrointestinal side effects. Best of all, liposomal iron doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it.
Why is liposomal iron the best form of iron supplement?
Better bioavailability
Liposomal iron is known for having amazing bioavailability. That’s the scientific way to measure how much of a nutrient reaches the place it’s supposed to go. An iron supplement with high bioavailability will reach your intestine quickly without losing a ton of its nutrients along the way. From there, it can be absorbed into your lymphatic system and released to your liver. Badda bing badda boom.
The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher than iron gluconate. In other words—it’s simply the most effective iron supplement.
Higher absorption
Better bioavailability means a higher absorption rate. That means you can take a lower dose and still give your iron levels a proper boost.
Fewer side effects
Liposomal delivery protects iron from the acid breakdown that causes frustrating gastrointestinal side effects.
Only 3% of people experience adverse side effects from oral liposomal iron. Compared to the 70% of people who experience side effects from conventional oral iron, it’s clear that liposomal iron is the safest and best form of iron supplement.
What are the best iron tablets to take?
Most oral iron supplements do not come in liposomal form. But Ferosom Forte does.
Not only is Ferosom Forte a liposomal iron supplement—it also has a patented LCE coating to add an extra layer of protection against stomach acid and gastrointestinal side effects. All with one purpose: to provide the highest absorption rate possible with just one 30mg dose per day.
Ferosom Forte also comes in capsule or sachet form, so you can add iron to your favourite smoothie, sprinkle it over yogurt, or let it dissolve directly in your mouth.
Talk to your doctor about Ferosom Forte and how it can improve your iron deficiency without hurting your digestive system.
]]>To avoid nutrient deficiency and low performance, athletes must get a substantial amount of key nutrients through their diet and supplements. From iron to vitamin B, here are the most important nutrients for athletes to stay healthy and perform at their personal best.
What nutrients are most important for athletes?
1. Iron
Iron is responsible for making hemoglobin—a protein that helps your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. As you probably guessed, oxygen is crucial for exercising. Endurance, energy, muscle strength, and lung capacity all rely on oxygen. That’s why iron deficiency has been shown to impact athletic performance. Low iron can reduce endurance and cause your body to exert more energy than normal.
Iron deficiency tends to be more common in women. One review found that 52% of teen female athletes had an iron deficiency.
2. Vitamin A and E
Vitamins A and E are both powerful antioxidants. Vitamin A improves vision, supports the immune system, and metabolizes iron.
Vitamin E helps to protect cells from free radicals and oxidative stress that can lead to chronic disease. Exercise can put a lot of oxidative stress on your muscles, so you need more antioxidants to counteract it.
3. Vitamin BLike a burst of energy, in vitamin form. B vitamins help to release energy in the body by metabolizing carbs, fats, and proteins. They also maintain brain function, form red blood cells, repair tissues, synthesize protein, and prevent anemia and iron deficiency.
Vitamin B12 is an especially important member of the B family—and also one of the most common nutrient deficiencies. Learn more about the health benefits of vitamin B12 right here.
4. Vitamin CThis famous vitamin is known for fighting off colds and keeping your immune system healthy. But vitamin C can also help with recovery after a training session or returning to your sport after an injury.
Since vitamin C is an antioxidant, it helps protect your cells from any damage that could be caused by exercise (for example, inflammation). It also increases iron absorption, which is another essential nutrient for athletic performance.
5. Vitamin D
An important nutrient for strong bones and muscles, Vitamin D can maintain your power and stamina. It also helps your body absorb calcium, which is an important nutrient for athletes. The higher the absorption rate, the more benefits the calcium will provide.
6. Calcium
Speak of the devil. Calcium is essential for strong and healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. Athletes need calcium to maintain muscle mass, improve bone density, and protect against bone fractures and other injuries.
7. Potassium
This vital mineral stores carbohydrates to be used as fuel for muscles. It’s also important for balancing fluid in the body and supporting muscle contractions. Without a healthy amount of potassium, your nervous and muscular systems can’t function at their best.
8. Coenzyme Q10
Let’s go back to high school science class for a sec. The mitochondria is the part of each cell that generates energy—also known as the powerhouse of the cell. Coenzyme Q10 is an enzyme inside the mitochondria that helps it function.
Low levels of coenzyme Q10 have been shown to increase fatigue and potentially cause serious health conditions, like diabetes, cancer, fibromyalgia, and neurodegenerative diseases.
9. Creatine
If you’re an athlete, chances are you’ve heard about this one. Creatine is an amino acid typically found in your muscles and brain. It’s proven to significantly enhance strength and muscle mass when combined with the proper training schedule.
10. Ashwagandha
There are so many potential benefits of this ancient Ayurvedic herb. Ashwagandha can soothe anxiety, lower blood pressure, and enhance brain function. For athletes, it has been shown to improve endurance, specifically by boosting maximum oxygen consumption.
11. Magnesium
One of the key nutrients responsible for energy metabolism, muscle function, and healthy bones. Magnesium helps to transport glycogen to the muscles and break down lactate, which can cause fatigue if it builds up during exercise. Naturally, low magnesium can be bad news for muscle performance and contraction.
What other nutrients can improve athletic performance and recovery? Here are a few more notable mentions:
What happens if athletes don’t get enough of these nutrients?
The simple answer? Your performance will take a hit. These nutrients are essential for anyone, whether you’re an athlete or not. But factor in the high-intensity output of training, competing, and pushing your body to the max, and they become even more important.
Low levels of essential nutrients can hurt your endurance, energy, stamina, and strength. It can only get worse if the nutrient deficiency is left untreated, sometimes leading to serious health complications.
Some research also shows that intense training can increase your need for essential vitamins and minerals. Athletes must pay attention to their nutrient intake not only to perform well, but to stay as healthy as possible during training.
Why is iron deficiency common among athletes?
Did you know 56% of joggers and endurance runners have an iron deficiency? There are a couple of reasons why—and they don’t just impact runners.
First: hormones. Exercise can cause inflammation, which releases a hormone called hepcidin that stops iron from being absorbed in the body.
Sweat also plays a part. Iron and other essential nutrients can seep out through your sweat. This could become an issue if you’re an endurance athlete, especially in hotter climates.
Iron can also be depleted by your foot hitting the ground. Seriously. It’s called foot strike hemolysis and it’s especially common in runners. The repetition of your foot striking the surface can damage red blood cells and cause hemoglobin levels to drop.
High-intensity training can also cause conditions that deplete iron, like mechanical hemolysis, intestinal bleeding, and hematuria.
Additionally, some athletes train at higher altitudes to increase their red blood cell density. While this improves endurance, it also puts you at a greater risk for iron loss and iron deficiency anemia. It’s a smart idea to start taking an iron supplement before this type of training, especially if you’re anemic or prone to iron deficiency.
(Want tips for how to exercise safely if you have iron deficiency anemia? We have a whole blog about it.)
How can athletes incorporate essential nutrients into their diets?
The ultimate athlete’s diet can be summed up in one word: balance. Eating a diverse range of nutritious foods can provide a good amount of the nutrients you need to train hard and stay healthy.
Here are the top nutrient-rich foods to consider adding to your weekly meal plan.
If you’re vegan or vegetarian, it can be difficult to get enough iron from your diet. Click here for our guide to iron deficiency anemia and plant-based eating.
Since vitamin C is known for boosting iron absorption, pair it with your iron-rich meals. Foods high in vitamin C include tomatoes, citrus fruits (like oranges), and dark leafy greens.
Are there supplements that athletes can take to get their nutrients?
Yes! Just about every essential nutrient is available in supplement form, from pills to powders. The trick is to find supplements that are high quality and, most importantly, effective.
Take Ferosom Forte, for example. Unlike other iron supplements that cause awful gastrointestinal side effects, Ferosom Forte has a patented LCE coating to protect it from acid breakdown in the stomach and intestines.
Best of all, it’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C for extra-high absorption.
Liposomal is an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. That’s what makes Ferosom Forte one of the best iron supplements for athletes.
Special mention: the sachet form contains Vitamin D, C, B6, and B12—all nutrients that are key for athletic performance.
Learn more about Ferosom Forte here and talk to your doctor about the best iron supplements for your unique body and training schedule.]]>Low energy and chronic fatigue are signs that something is off-balance in your body. There are many potential causes of fatigue, from poor sleep to stress and iron deficiency. But there are just as many ways to pick your energy levels back up.
How do I know I have low energy?
There’s a difference between feeling sleepy sometimes and constantly needing a nap. Here are a few signs that you might be suffering from chronic fatigue:
How much sleep do I need to avoid fatigue?
For most adults, it’s recommended that you get about 7 hours of sleep or more per night. But it’s not just about how many hours of shut-eye you get. It’s also about what your body is doing during sleep.
While you sleep, your body releases growth hormones and repairs and regenerates cells so that you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. If you don’t get the recommended 7 hours or your sleep quality is poor, your body won’t have a chance to do this crucial cell clean-up.
Why do I feel so tired throughout the day, even when I’m getting enough sleep?
There are many potential reasons for fatigue and a lot of them have nothing to do with sleep.
Nutritional deficiencies
Your body needs a diverse set of nutrients and vitamins to run properly. If you’re low in one area, studies show that fatigue is one of the first symptoms. This is especially true for these common deficiencies:
There are several ways to turn nutritional deficiencies around, from diet to lifestyle changes to supplements. Choosing the right supplement can be really tough. A lot of supplements on the market aren’t effective and some even have nasty side effects.
It’s important to talk to your doctor about how best to treat your nutrient deficiency and which supplements are going to actually work (without causing more harm to your body). You’ll typically feel more energized once you restore these nutrient levels.
Stress
It’s normal to get a little stressed from time to time. But chronic stress can lead to even more chronic conditions, like fatigue and inflammation.
It can even cause a condition called stress-related exhaustion disorder (ED), which is pretty much exactly how it sounds—total exhaustion in your mind and body. Reducing stress is key to rejuvenating your energy levels and avoiding related health problems.
Diet
You really are what you eat. Most of the nutrients your body needs to thrive are sourced from food. Without a well-balanced diet of nutrient-dense foods, fatigue will inevitably set in.
Processed foods are also to blame. Added sugar and unhealthy fats can cause high blood sugar, interrupt your sleep pattern, and give you that lethargic, run-down feeling.
Beverages can cause fatigue too. Drinking coffee or energy drinks gives you that temporary burst of energy, but overconsumption can cause you to crash soon after. Then you drink more caffeine to compensate for the fatigue caused by the caffeine. See the problem?
Dehydration
Your body is constantly losing water throughout the day. If you don’t rehydrate, your body gets tired, your brain loses the ability to concentrate, and your sleep cycle gets all sorts of messed up. One study of over 26,000 adults found that poor hydration led directly to shorter sleep times and higher fatigue.
Obesity
Obesity is linked to multiple chronic conditions, from type 2 diabetes to heart disease and fatigue. It can also harm your sleep quality, which in turn causes more weight gain and fatigue.
If you’re overweight, talk to your doctor about a treatment plan to maintain a healthier body weight long-term.
Medical conditions
Insomnia, cancer, hypothyroidism, depression, diabetes, and kidney disease are all examples of conditions that can cause chronic fatigue. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and the best course of treatment.
Other common causes of fatigue include drug and alcohol dependence, low exercise, overworking and/or shift work, and certain medications like steroids and antidepressants.
What functions of the body use up the most energy?
Even when you’re resting, your body is working. These essential bodily functions can use up more energy than you think. Circulation, respiration, digestion, and excretion are some of the top energy-exertors.
One organ might take the cake though. Your brain uses more energy than any other organ, accounting for about 20% of your body’s available energy. Most of that energy is spent sending signals between neurons and nerve cells.
What can I do in my daily routine to feel more energized?
Remember all the causes of chronic fatigue we told you about earlier? The trick to higher energy levels is to do the total opposite. Here’s a recap:
1. Reduce stress levels
There’s no one-size-fits-all method for easing stress. But these common stress relievers are a great place to start:
2. Drink lots of water (and less alcohol)
Hydration is important for every aspect of your health and energy is no exception. Dehydration leads directly to fatigue, but drinking even one glass of water can improve symptoms.
The National Academy of Medicine recommends drinking 9 to 13 cups of water per day. Keep a reusable water bottle handy at all times to make hydration as simple and convenient as possible.
While you’re at it, reduce your alcohol intake, especially before bed. This can improve your sleep, reduce dehydration, and make you feel refreshed and ready for the day when you wake up.
3. Get more exercise
One California State University study found that a quick 10-minute walk increased energy levels and kept them there for up to 2 hours. Even better: after 3 weeks of these walks, overall energy and mental health levels were significantly improved.
Make it a priority to get your heart rate up at least 3 times a week. There are so many ways to exercise, so find one that you really enjoy and make it a part of your weekly routine.
4. Eat breakfast
Your first meal sets the tone for the rest of your day. Eating a healthy, balanced breakfast in the morning supplies your body with all the energy it needs, resulting in a better mood and an easier sleep once the day is done.
5. Call your doc for a check-up
Life gets busy and we sometimes forget to check in on our general health. Things like thyroid function, blood cell count, and low iron can significantly impact your energy levels if they aren’t treated. Talk to your doctor about your fatigue and ask for tests to be done so you can better understand your overall health.
What can I change or add to my diet to feel more energized?
6. Eat more whole grains
There are so many benefits to eating whole, healthy grains, like brown rice and quinoa. Whole grains provide a steady source of fuel and insulin throughout the day. That means your energy levels can stay balanced, instead of dropping and spiking over and over.
7. Take your magnesium and B vitamins
Magnesium is a mineral used for over 300 biochemical reactions in your body—including breaking sugar down into energy. The recommended daily intake of magnesium is 300mg for women and 350mg for men. Popular sources of magnesium include fish, whole grains, and nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews.
B vitamins are equally as important for producing energy and delivering oxygen throughout the body. Still, about 40% of all adults in the US have a vitamin B12 deficiency. You can increase your vitamin B levels by taking a supplement or eating more B-rich foods, like fatty fish, beef, chicken, or eggs.
8. Go easy on the sweets
Sugar acts like a shock to your system. It causes a spike in blood sugar and a temporary energy burst—emphasis on the temporary. After the high, your blood sugar quickly drops and you’re suddenly ready for a nap.
Eating fewer sugary treats can support your blood sugar levels and keep your energy balanced.
9. Swap your americano for a latte
Yes, drinking too much coffee is bad for your energy levels. But a bit of caffeine can still be beneficial for fatigue, especially mixed with milk.
Pairing your espresso with a good amount of milk turns it into a protein drink of sorts. You get a burst of calcium and healthy fat along with a shot of energy.
10. Get more iron
Iron creates hemoglobin—a protein responsible for transporting oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Oxygen is one of the main contributors to your energy levels. That’s why iron deficiency and anemia can quickly lead to extreme fatigue.
Foods high in iron include red meat, fish, and poultry. For vegans and vegetarians, iron can also be found in green leafy vegetables, beans, tofu, and iron-fortified grains. Learn more about iron and plant-based eating right here.
For most people, getting enough iron solely from food is difficult. That’s where an iron supplement comes in. When shopping for a supplement, make sure to choose one with the highest absorption rate possible, like Ferosom Forte.
What is the best iron supplement for energy levels?
Ferosom Forte has one of the highest absorption rates available. It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C for enhanced absorption.
What’s Liposomal form? It’s an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. Yep, it’s that good. For that reason, only a small dose is needed to do a world of good for your iron stores.
Ferosom Forte is also fortified with vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients, like vitamin C and folic acid. If you and your doctor think that iron might be to blame for your low energy levels, click here to learn more about how Ferosom Forte works and why it’s the best iron supplement for fatigue and low energy.]]>So what exactly makes your blood so cool? And what can you do to naturally cleanse your blood so it functions at its best? Let’s rip off the Band-aid on this blog. (Sorry, we had to).
What are the essential functions of blood?
Blood has five very important responsibilities in your body.
1. Transportation
Think of your blood as a really effective subway system. It’s working 24/7 to get all the people where they need to go quickly and safely. If it succeeds, the city runs smoother and the citizens are happier and healthier.
Now substitute the city for your body. Blood carries oxygen and other essential nutrients to all the organs in your body so they can function properly. Without a healthy blood flow (i.e. a really great subway system), those nutrients would have no way to get to their destinations.
2. Fights infection
Your blood cells are like little warriors. When they detect a potential infection, they spring into action to protect you. Your blood carries immune cells and antibodies to affected areas to heal them as quickly as possible. It also helps to destroy harmful pathogens that enter your body before they can cause disease or illness.
3. Stops bleeding
Yep—one of your blood’s top responsibilities is to stop you from bleeding. Blood contains platelets and other elements that have the ability to clot. This means if you start bleeding on the outside of your body, or if a blood vessel is damaged and bleeding inside your body, clotting will protect the area and prevent blood loss.
4. Regulates body temperatureEver feel like your fingers and toes are always cold? That’s a sign of iron deficiency anemia—and it means your blood isn’t distributing heat well enough.
Blood absorbs warmth and then sends it all over your body to regulate your temperature through the day and night. The speed of your blood flow makes a difference too. If your blood vessels expand, the blood flows slower and heat can be lost in the process.
5. Detoxes your body
While your blood carries good stuff all over your body, it also carries bad stuff out of your body. Blood transports waste and toxins from your organs to your kidneys and liver. From there, it’s filtered, metabolized, and expelled from the body.
Bottom line: The healthier your blood is, the healthier you will be. Healthy blood can boost your immune system, prevent anemia, ward off disease, and significantly improve the function of your most vital organs.
How does your body remove toxins from your blood?
Most of the heavy lifting is done by your liver, kidneys, and lungs. They all work overtime to detox and cleanse your blood, without you having to do a thing.
The liver is the detoxing top dog. It filters toxins and unwanted substances from the blood, breaks them down, and gets rid of them. Your liver also pulls nutrients from the blood and delivers them to the rest of your body.
The kidneys operate in a similar way. The main difference is that they release toxins from your blood through your pee.
Meanwhile, the lungs cleanse your blood by filtering gross gases and expelling them through your breath.
But the liver, kidney, and lungs aren’t the only players in the detox game. Your skin, intestines, spleen, and lymphatic system are also a part of the blood cleansing system.
With so many organs helping out, it’s clear that your body can detox blood all on its own. Still, every now and then, it might need a little boost. But more on that later.
What are the key nutrients needed for maintaining blood health?
There are so many nutrients that can help your blood thrive. Here are the top three to keep in mind.
1. Folic acid
This amazing vitamin helps form red blood cells, repair DNA, and regulate cell growth and division. Folic acid is especially important for pregnant women to reduce the risk of birth defects.
Foods rich in folic acid include dark leafy greens, beans, peas, nuts, oranges, lemons, bananas, melons, and strawberries.
2. Vitamin B12
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ve definitely heard of this nutrient. Vitamin B12 is responsible for creating and regulating DNA and producing healthy red blood cells. That’s why a vitamin B12 deficiency will often lead to anemia.
Long-term B12 deficiency can get even more serious. If left untreated, it can lead to a number of conditions, from nerve damage to depression.
Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products, which is why vegans will often take a B12 supplement to ensure they’re getting the right amount. You can find B12 in fish, meat, chicken, eggs, milk, and fortified cereals or grains.
(Psst. Learn more about the incredible health benefits of vitamin B12 right here.)
3. Iron
This blood-health-boosting nutrient might just be our favourite (but don’t tell the others). Iron produces hemoglobin: a protein that helps red blood cells transfer oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
Iron-rich foods include red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach and kale), dried fruits (like raisins and apricots), peas, and iron-fortified cereals, bread, and pasta.
What is the relationship between iron and healthy blood?
Iron is a super important piece of the blood puzzle. Remember that subway analogy? Hemoglobin (created by iron) is the fuel that makes all the subway trains go.
About 70% of the iron in your body is in the form of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Low hemoglobin levels put you at risk for developing anemia—a frustrating condition that impacts about 25% of the world’s population.
Symptoms of iron deficiency and/or anemia can include:
And so many more. Click here to discover 15 signs you might have an iron deficiency.
The more iron you get, the more hemoglobin is in your blood and the healthier your entire body will be.
What are natural ways to cleanse your blood?
Detoxing has become a popular trend in the health world. Products and programs that promise to detox your entire body often don’t have much scientific evidence behind them.
Don’t get us wrong—we love a good juice cleanse every once in a while. But the truth is, your body is naturally equipped to detox itself. And as long as you’re taking care of yourself, it does a really good job of it.
However, there are many natural foods, herbs, and lifestyle changes that are proven to boost your body’s detoxing abilities. And who wouldn’t want a little boost? Here are our top recos for cleaner, healthier blood.
Drink more water.
This one might seem obvious, but trust us—it’s worth mentioning. Staying hydrated is necessary for your blood health. It ensures your cells can transport oxygen and your kidneys can filter your blood. Water also keeps your blood vessels open and makes the flow of blood smooth and seamless.
How do you know if you’re getting enough water? Keep a close eye on your pee. Your urine should be a clear or faint yellow colour and you should be peeing about 6 cups of urine per day (according to the National Kidney Association).
Get your heart pumping.
Regular exercise causes more breathing and sweating, which in turn transports more blood to your muscles. All of this is helpful for cleansing your blood.
Support your liver.
Avoid excessive drinking, drug use and consuming highly processed foods. If possible, try to incorporate warm lemon water first thing in the morning to keep your liver functioning at its best, so it can detox your blood regularly.
Eat a balanced diet.
Nutrients keep your organs on their A-game so your blood can stay clean and toxin-free. But as we mentioned earlier, there are some herbs and other foods that have been shown to supercharge the detoxification process, especially for your liver and kidneys.
Foods and herbs that can naturally cleanse your blood include:
Lastly, get enough iron.
Iron produces red blood cells that are necessary for healthy, detoxed blood. It’s possible to get enough iron through your diet. But for many people, especially females and vegetarians, eating iron-rich foods alone just won’t cut it. That’s when a high-quality, effective iron supplement comes in handy.
What is the best iron supplement for blood health?
Easy: Ferosom Forte. This iron supplement has one of the highest absorption rates available. It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C for enhanced absorption.
What’s Liposomal form? It’s an advanced nutrient delivery system that increases absorption and bioavailability. The absorption rates of Liposomal iron are similar to certain doses of IV iron. Yep, it’s that good. For that reason, only a small dose is needed to do a world of good for your iron stores.
What does all of this absorption talk have to do with your blood health? The more iron is absorbed into your body, the more hemoglobin your blood will have to transport oxygen and support regular detoxification.
And as an added bonus, Ferosom Forte is formulated with other essential nutrients and vitamins for blood health, like folic acid and vitamin B12. It also has a patented LCE coating to avoid the nasty side effects that often come along with iron supplements.
Click here to meet the Ferosom Forte collection and boost your blood health in the process. ]]>Here’s the kicker: your body needs vitamin B12, but it doesn’t produce it. That’s why it’s so important to keep your B12 levels up. Keep reading to find out how.
What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential, water-soluble vitamin found naturally in animal products, like meat and eggs. It’s also the largest and most structurally complex vitamin out there. Fancy, huh?
Your body can store vitamin B12 for up to four years. It gradually borrows from your stores to keep you healthy, from the brain to the bloodstream.
What are the many health benefits of vitamin B12?
Red blood cell formation
Did you know just three drops of blood contain over one billion red blood cells? These powerful cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body so it can function and thrive. But if you have low levels of vitamin B12, it’s harder for red blood cells to form.
The result? Megaloblastic anemia—a condition where your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to transport oxygen. This type of anemia is caused by a deficiency in B12 or folate.
What does anemia feel and look like? Weakness, fatigue, headaches, pale skin, irregular heartbeats, cold hands and feet, dizziness, and more.
By increasing your vitamin B12 intake, you can boost red blood cell formation and give your vital organs all the oxygen they need.
Healthy pregnancy
Babies need a lot of vitamins and nutrients to grow properly. Vitamin B12 is no exception. Research shows that B12 is necessary for a fetus’ brain and nervous system to develop properly.
That’s why vitamin B12 can prevent birth defects, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. One study found that women with less than 250 mg/dL of vitamin B12 were three times more likely to have a child with birth defects. On top of that, some research suggests that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause premature birth or miscarriage.
Strong bones
Vitamin B12 can boost bone health and keep osteoporosis at bay. Several studies have found that low levels of B12 reduce bone density, increase fragility, and boost your risk of fracture.
DNA production
Good genes? You’ve got vitamin B12 to thank. Vitamin B12 is partially responsible for synthesizing DNA in your body and making sure important parts of the cells are strong enough structurally.
Reduced risk of eye disease
When it comes to vitamin B12 benefits, seeing is believing. Literally.
Scientists believe that vitamin B12 can prevent macular degeneration—an age-related eye disease that impacts your central vision. One study of 5,000 people found that taking vitamin B12 supplements with folic acid and vitamin B6 reduced their risk of developing the disease by 34%. We like those odds.
Good mood
When you take care of your physical health, your mental health reaps the benefits. The same is true when your vitamin B12 levels are in check.
Vitamin B12 helps make serotonin, also known as a happy hormone. Serotonin regulates your mood, attention span, and behaviour. If you’re not getting enough vitamin B12, serotonin levels can nosedive and depression can set in.
One study even found that vitamin B12 supplements paired with antidepressants improved symptoms of depression better than antidepressants alone. Clearly, vitamin B12 is an important player in your mental health journey.
Better memory
Have you ever heard of brain atrophy? It’s when your brain starts losing neurons, causing complications like memory loss, dementia, and poor cognitive function.
One potential way to stop brain atrophy is upping your vitamin B12 intake. One study found that a combination of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids slowed mental decline in patients with early-stage dementia. Other studies have found similar results.
Your brain does a lot for you. Vitamin B12 will make sure it keeps up the good work as you age.
Energy boost
Feeling a little tired—like, all the time? B vitamins are known for increasing energy levels and athletic endurance, especially vitamin B12. In fact, one of the most common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue or feeling lethargic
If you’re feeling slower than usual, increase your vitamin B12 intake. Caution: Random energy bursts might result in next-level productivity, more fun, and a new zest for life. You’ve been warned.
Lower risk of heart disease
Vitamin B12 is proven to lower levels of homocysteine—an amino acid that is often linked to heart disease. When your body isn’t getting enough B12, homocysteine rises and your heart health is in jeopardy. And not the fun game show kind.
For long-term heart health, make sure vitamin B12 is part of your daily diet or supplement routine.
Beautiful skin, nails, and hair
We already know that vitamin B12 is important for cell production. But this amazing benefit isn’t reserved for inner beauty.
Vitamin B12 boosts cell turnover for clear skin, strong nails, and shiny, luscious hair. That’s why some of the first signs of vitamin B12 deficiency are aesthetic, like skin discolouration, hyperpigmentation, and changes in hair density.
How much vitamin B12 do I need each day?
The recommended daily intake for most adults is 2.4 micrograms (mcg). If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need more. Talk to your doctor about which dose is right for you and your unique health.
When in doubt, remember that vitamin B12 hasn’t been shown to be toxic or harmful, even at high doses.
What causes vitamin B12 deficiency?
About 40% of all adults in the US have low levels of vitamin B12. Some people are more at risk than others:
Your body can store up to 2,000 times the amount of vitamin B12 you typically eat in a day. That means symptoms can sometimes take years to show up. When they do, here are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency to look for:
How can I incorporate vitamin B12 into my diet?
There are so many amazing sources of vitamin B12. Bonus: all of them are packed with tons of other vitamins and nutrients to boot. If you want to up your vitamin B12 intake, add these items to your grocery list:
If you do eat a vegan diet, look for plant-based foods that are fortified with vitamin B12.
Are vitamin B12 supplements a good alternative?
If you’re concerned about getting enough vitamin B12 in your diet, supplements are a great alternative. Even if you do eat a good amount of vitamin B12, supplements are still a good idea just in case.
There are many different types of supplements, from pills to nasal sprays to injections (for more serious cases). It’s important to look for supplements that are approved by your national health body, like Health Canada.
Some supplements can do double duty. For example, Ferosom Forte is an iron supplement that’s also formulated with Folic acid and vitamins D, B6, C, and B12 for extra nutrients and higher absorption rates. If you’re struggling with iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency at the same time (which is common), Ferosom Forte can tackle both.
Click here to learn more about Ferosom Forte and how it can support your vitamin B12 and iron needs. ]]>By understanding the symptoms and what causes them, you can work towards a stronger, healthier immune system.
What is the role of a strong immune system?
Think of your immune system like your own personal bodyguard. It’s made up of cells, proteins, and organs that all work together to defend against invaders that could make you sick.
What exactly are these invaders? Most of them are pathogens—viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites that find their way into your body and cause disease. But they can also be internal threats, like cancer cells forming, or external substances, like toxins or poisons.
No matter what it is, your immune system’s job is to neutralize it and protect you from illness and disease.
What can cause a weak immune system?
Lack of sleep. When you’re sleeping, your body makes antibodies. These powerful cells fight infection and protect against illness. If you aren’t getting enough zzz’s, your immune system won’t have enough antibodies to keep you healthy.
Stress is a major trigger for your immune system too. In fact, just 30 minutes of anxiety can weaken your immune response.
Low levels of crucial vitamins and nutrients—specifically vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, iron, and fiber—can slow down your immune function. That’s why colds are so common in the winter. The lack of sunlight (or simply spending time outdoors) can cause your vitamin levels to quickly fall below normal.
Poor diet. Your immune system loves when you eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Fiber, zinc, iron, and probiotics are especially important to support your gut, reduce inflammation, and keep your immune system happy. If you aren’t feeding your body the fuel it needs, your immune system can suffer.
Certain prescription medications can harm your immune system while they try to heal something else. Corticosteroids, TNF inhibitors, and drugs for IBS are just a few examples. Always talk to your doctor about side effects before taking a new medication.
Being unhealthy in excess. You know what we’re talking about—drinking too much alcohol, smoking cigarettes, eating processed foods. As much as we all hate to hear it, anything that doesn’t support your overall health can hurt your immune function.
What are the different symptoms of a weak immune system?
Low energy
Fighting off all those potential threats is a tiring job for your immune system. It needs a lot of energy to keep you healthy. And the weaker your immune system is, the more energy it needs to protect you.
That’s why your body conserves energy—so the immune system can use it when needed. But if your immune function is using up all the fuel, the rest of your body doesn’t have enough to do everything it needs to.
The result? Fatigue, weakness, and really wanting a nap. If you’re getting the recommended amount of sleep each night (7 to 9 hours) and you still feel tired, it’s a sign your immune system might need a little love.
Frequent illness and infection
Feel like you’re getting sick all the time? That’s typically the first and most obvious sign that your immune system isn’t as strong as it should be. The average US adult gets 2 to 3 colds per year. Any more than that and it’s time to check in on your immunity.
But colds aren’t the only red flag. A weak immune system can also cause frequent ear, sinus, or skin infections. Keep track of your symptoms and let your doctor know how often illness or infection is occurring.
High stress levels
Stress and your immune function go hand in hand. A weak immune system can be stressful, and stress can in turn damage your immune system. It’s like an endless cycle that feels tough to break once you’re in it.
How does it work? When your fight or flight response kicks in, it causes a drop in protein production, white blood cell production, and normal cell function. All of these changes impact the immune system.
Stomach pain
Indigestion? Abdominal pain? Nausea? Your immune system might be to blame.
Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract is an important player in keeping your immune system strong. It’s home to millions of bacteria that regulate the immune system. In other words, they help the immune system figure out which pathogens should stay and which should get the boot.
If that regulation process slows down, your GI tract will send you warning signs—like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Not fun.
Keep in mind: stomach troubles can also be a sign of autoimmune disease. That’s when your immune system is too active and is killing off good bacteria along with the bad. If you’re struggling with some tough tummy symptoms, talk to your doctor about what might be causing it.
How can you boost your immune system?
Good news: There are so many ways to strengthen your immune system and feel healthier. And most of them are simple-yet-powerful lifestyle and behaviour changes.
Take Ferosom Forte for example. This iron supplement has one of the highest absorption rates available. Why? It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C to boost absorption even higher.
The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate. In other words, this supplement is specifically designed for maximum absorption.
Best of all, Ferosom sachets are formulated with other vitamins, like Folic acid, vitamins D, C, B6, and B12. It’s like an immunity boost from multiple angles—in just one supplement. Click here to learn more. ]]>While iron deficiency is a common cause of iron deficiency anemia, the two aren’t always interchangeable. That’s why we’re explaining the difference between them, the causes of each, and how to treat them.
Why do we need iron?
Let’s start here. Iron is a mineral that helps your body produce hemoglobin—a substance in red blood cells that allows them to carry oxygen all over the body. Oxygen is crucial for your body’s function (duh). It powers your cells so you can stay energized and healthy.
There are a few different ways to get iron, from food to iron supplements. Typically, your body absorbs the iron and stores it away for later. But what if those stores are getting used up faster than they can be refilled? That’s when iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia come into play.
What’s the difference between being anemic and being iron deficient?
If you’re iron deficient, it simply means your body has a low iron count. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. In fact, it is estimated that up to 25% of the world’s population suffers from low iron.
If you’re anemic, it means your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the parts that need it. Iron deficiency anemia is therefore a type of anemia—and the most common type, at that.
Still with us? Okay good.
Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia happen gradually over time and can include:
It’s important to see a doctor as soon as you notice these symptoms. They can provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan that makes sense for your unique body.
Can you have iron deficiency without anemia and vice versa?
Yes—you can have iron deficiency or anemia independently from each other. However, iron deficiency will always lead to anemia if it’s not treated effectively. That’s because over time, iron deficiency is causing your body to use up all of its iron stores.
On the flip side, there are many types of anemia that aren’t caused by iron deficiency. For example:
What are the 3 stages of iron deficiency anemia?
As we now know, iron deficiency can gradually turn into iron deficiency anemia. It does this over 3 stages.
Stage 1: Your iron stores are depleted and there isn’t a lot of new iron coming in. Fortunately, your red blood cells haven’t been affected quite yet.
Stage 2: The normal process of red blood cell production—AKA erythropoiesis—starts to break down. This is called iron-deficient erythropoiesis. It means your bone marrow is making red blood cells without an adequate amount of hemoglobin.
Stage 3: Uh oh. Your body officially doesn’t have enough iron to make hemoglobin. This causes your hemoglobin concentration to drop below the healthy range, leading to—you guessed it—iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms of anemia will become more obvious and concerning at this stage.
What causes iron deficiency anemia?
There are several factors that can contribute to iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.
Poor diet. This one’s simple—not eating enough iron can lead to low iron.
Menstruation. The loss of blood cells every month can make it harder for oxygen to get to your tissues. Blood loss from injury or blood testing can also cause iron deficiency.
Pregnancy. You’ll need more iron than usual to support yourself and the baby. That means iron can get used up quicker. During pregnancy, 40% of women will become anemic and 25% will be related to iron deficiency.
Infant growth and diet. Babies run out of the iron they absorbed during pregnancy around month 4. After that point, they might be at risk for having iron deficiency—especially if they are only breastfed or drink unfortified formula.
Childhood or teenage growth spurts. The body suddenly needs a lot more nutrients than it used to. This abrupt change can use up iron faster than it’s being consumed.
Old age. Adults over 65 often eat less food and therefore get less iron in their diets.
Digestive conditions, like celiac, inflammatory bowel disease, or Chrohn’s disease.
What causes anemia other than iron deficiency?
Anemia isn’t always tied to iron. It can be caused by other nutritional deficiencies like B12 or B9. Anemia can also be caused by genetic disorders that impact red blood cells, bone marrow, or other parts of the blood. This includes abnormal red blood cells—as in, too big, too weak, too quick to die, too small, too many, or not enough.
How do you treat iron-deficiency anemia?
As with most nutritional deficiencies, there isn’t one quick fix. But anemia treatment supplements will typically be one of your doctor’s first recommendations. The only problem? Most iron supplements come with nasty gastrointestinal side effects.
Not Ferosom Forte. This vegan iron supplement has a proprietary LCE Coat™ that protects it from acid breakdown as it moves through the stomach. That means more iron gets absorbed into your body, and less gets dissolved into your gastro-intestinal tract.
Ferosom Forte also has one of the highest absorption rates available. Why? It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C to boost absorption even higher.
The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate. In other words, this supplement is specifically designed for max iron absorption.
If you or someone you love struggles with iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia, Ferosom Forte might be the solution they’ve been looking for. Learn more.]]>It’s a fair question, since we often associate iron-rich foods with meat and other animal products. But a vegan diet can be packed with all the iron your body needs. It’s just a matter of eating the right foods and knowing how to boost iron absorption.
From iron-rich vegan recipes to the best vegan iron supplement, here’s everything you need to know about avoiding iron deficiency anemia—while eating a delicious plant-based diet.
Why do we need iron?
Great Q. Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body make hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It also has a handful of other important responsibilities, like making hormones.
A lack of iron can cause a frustrating condition called iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms can include:
Since easily absorbed iron is most commonly found in animal products, plant-based eaters can sometimes be more prone to developing iron deficiency anemia.
How much iron do vegetarians and vegans need?If you eat a plant-based diet, you typically need double the amount of iron intake as meat-eaters do. That’s because there are two different types of iron: heme and non-heme.
Heme iron comes from animal products like meat, poultry, and seafood. Non-heme iron comes from plant-based food. Both are excellent sources of iron, but the body doesn’t absorb non-heme iron as well as heme.
The amount of iron you need also depends on your age and sex. Here’s a helpful table to see what your daily iron intake should be (courtesy of the National Institutes of Health). If you eat a mostly plant-based diet, remember to multiply the recommended amount by two.
What plant-based foods are high in iron?
The list goes on (and on). There are so many delicious plant-based foods that are packed with iron—and other nutrients that your body needs to thrive.
If you eat a plant-based diet, these are the top foods you should eat to increase your iron intake:
See? We told you they were delicious.
How can I increase iron absorption through diet?Step one: Incorporate a variety of iron-rich foods into your plant-based diet. Aim for a wide range of colours and food groups to diversify your iron intake and add even more nutrition to your plate.
Step two: Pair these foods with a healthy source of vitamin C to increase absorption, like citrus fruits, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, and strawberries. Vitamin A and beta-carotene have also been shown to boost iron absorption. Foods high in these vitamins include carrots, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, red peppers, and oranges.
Step three: Avoid eating iron-rich foods with other foods that can block iron absorption. Click here to learn more about what those foods are and how to time them perfectly with your daily meals.
Step four: Take a high-quality, vegan iron supplement. But more on that later.
Vegan breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options to maintain healthy iron levels.The world of plant-based cooking is neverending. There are so many mouth-watering recipes and easy-to-make options, packed with iron to boot. Here are a few of our favourite iron-rich vegan meal suggestions.
BREAKFAST:
Colourful, delicious, and packed with iron. This vegan breakfast porridge takes just 10 minutes to make—but it’ll keep you energized all morning.
15 Minute Vegan Apple Pie Oatmeal
Iron, protein, and fibre—oh my. This vegan cinnamon-spiced breakfast oatmeal has it all.
LUNCH:
Vegan Red Lentil Sweet Potato Curry
Bold flavour meets big iron. This creamy, Thai-inspired curry is bursting with iron-rich vegan goodness.
Buffalo Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Chickpeas are one of the best beans for boosting your iron. Now imagine they taste like buffalo wings—and put them on a delicious, plant-based sandwich.
DINNER:
Sweet Potato Linguine with Vegan Puy Lentil Ragu
Plant-based pasta is always a good idea. This vegan bolognese-style ragu is made for maximum iron intake—and tastiness.
This iron-packed, plant-based spin on India’s famous palak paneer dish takes only 15 minutes—and 1 pot.
SNACKS:
Vegan Coconut Butter, Date, and Cranberry Energy Balls
The perfect high-protein snack for pre or post-workout. These delicious bites are packed with iron-rich ingredients and vegan nutrition. Plus, they’re super easy to make.
Seedy Chocolate No-Bake Granola Bars
Featuring candied ginger and a variety of iron-rich nuts and seeds, these vegan and gluten-free granola bars make the perfect snack in-between meals.
What is the best iron supplement for anemia I can take to increase iron levels?There are a ton of iron supplements on the market. Which is great—but it can also cause a lot of overwhelm and confusion about which supplements are the best quality.
Enter: Ferosom Forte. This vegan iron supplement has one of the highest absorption rates available. Why? It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C (which, as we now know, can help boost iron absorption).
It also has a proprietary LCE Coat™ that protects it from acid breakdown as it moves through the stomach. That means more iron gets absorbed into your body, and less gets dissolved into your gastro-intestinal tract.
The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate. In other words, this supplement is specifically designed for max iron absorption.
Click here to discover why Ferosom Forte is the best iron supplement for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike. ]]>What happens when your body absorbs iron?
First: a quick lesson in iron absorption. Iron is used to produce hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that helps move oxygen throughout the entire body. If your body is struggling to absorb enough iron, you can develop iron deficiency anemia. This might cause frustrating and painful symptoms, like fatigue, dizziness, headache, cold hands and feet, shortness of breath, and more.
The recommended iron intake for the average person is 7 to 18 mg per day. And for most of us, the number one way to get this iron is through our diet.
What foods are high in iron?
Iron is most often found in meat, fish, and poultry. These foods contain heme iron, which is one of the best iron forms because your body can absorb up to 40% of it.
Good news for the vegetarians: you can also get iron from plant-based foods like grains and vegetables. This type of iron is called non-heme and makes up about 90% of the average dietary iron intake. Ironically, non-heme iron is far more difficult for your body to absorb than heme iron.
On top of that, many natural sources of non-heme iron have also been shown to interfere with iron absorption. But more on that in a minute.
What foods and vitamins help you absorb more iron?
Some foods might be a little light on iron, but they can help your system absorb iron from other foods. For example, foods that are rich in vitamin C are proven to boost iron absorption. That’s why the highest-quality iron supplements are infused with vitamin C—to make absorption levels as high as possible. Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, and strawberries.
Vitamin A and beta-carotene have also been shown to boost your body’s iron absorption capabilities. Foods high in these vitamins include carrots, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, red peppers, and oranges.
What prevents iron absorption?
All sorts of factors can stand in the way of your iron levels. Blood loss, inadequate intake, and health conditions like celiac disease, IBS, or Crohn’s disease can all play a part. For most people, a wide range of foods and vitamins are to blame for poor iron absorption.
What foods and vitamins can interfere with iron absorption?
1. Phytates or phytic acidMost often found in plant-based foods like whole grains, cereals, soy, corn, nuts, and legumes, phytates are proven to block the absorption of non-heme iron. Walnuts are especially high in phytates.
In some cases, phytates can be removed before eating. Make sure to soak beans and lentils thoroughly (typically overnight) to get rid of any phytic acid—and take full advantage of all the wonderful natural iron hiding inside.
And if you know you’re going to be eating foods with phytates, pair them with a food that helps boost iron absorption, like vitamin C.
2. Calcium
Sad news for all you cheese lovers. Research shows that calcium—although an essential mineral for healthy bones—can interfere with short-term iron absorption.
Calcium-rich foods include dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as sardines, tofu, canned salmon, broccoli, figs, and more.
That doesn’t mean you have to give up your favourite gouda. If you consume less than 50mg of calcium, it has little to no effect on iron absorption. You can also time your calcium intake so that it doesn’t interfere with your iron intake. That way your body can absorb all the iron and all the calcium, without canceling each other out.
3. Polyphenols
Several studies show that consuming polyphenols with iron-rich foods can interfere with iron absorption.
Chances are, your diet is already packed with polyphenols. They can be found in vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, cocoa, tea, wine, and coffee. According to the Iron Disorders Institute, just one cup of coffee can prevent iron absorption by up to 60%. That’s one unfortunate latte.
Polyphenols are a healthy plant compound with powerful antioxidant qualities. That’s why you don’t want to completely erase these goods from your diet. Instead, pay attention to the timing of your meals in relation to iron-rich foods or iron supplements. Doctors typically recommend taking iron supplements at least two hours before or after drinking coffee, tea, or eating polyphenol-rich foods.
4. Oxalic Acid
Like most of the watch-outs on this list, oxalates are most often found in plant-based foods like spinach, soy, wheat, nuts, and nut butters. It’s especially common in tea. And, of course, oxalic acid has been shown to reduce iron absorption.
Hot tip (pun intended): oxalic acid doesn’t love the heat. If your diet is full of these foods, cooking them might help lower the oxalate content.
5. Egg yolks
All about the omelettes? It might be standing in the way of your iron absorption. Egg yolk contains a protein compound called phosvitin, which can inhibit iron absorption by up to 30%.
If you’re not ready to give up eggs, try eating egg whites only for a while until you can raise your iron levels. Egg whites don’t contain phosvitin, so they are less likely to block iron absorption.
If you take an iron supplement, make sure it’s at least two hours before or after you eat your tasty egg yolks. This will decrease your chances of blocking the iron absorption.
What iron supplement has the highest absorption rate?
Ferosom Forte has one of the highest absorption rates out there. Why? It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with vitamin C. It also has a proprietary LCE Coat™ that protects it from acid breakdown as it moves through the stomach. That means more iron gets absorbed into your body, and less gets dissolved into your GI tract.
The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate. In other words, this supplement is specifically designed for max iron absorption.
Navigating a diet of foods that both enhance and deplete iron can be tough. Ferosom Forte ensures you’re getting the iron you need along the way. Discover more here. ]]>You might lift iron. But if you don’t have enough iron in your body, you won’t be lifting like you used to. That’s because iron is a necessity for exercise — and when iron is low, your workout could be the first thing to suffer.
Iron is in charge of producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen through your entire body. When your body isn’t producing a healthy amount of hemoglobin, there won’t be enough oxygen to go around. This can lead to anemia — a condition that makes exercise a bit challenging, to say the least.
So, what can you do if your iron is low? Is it okay to keep exercising or will you need to make some adjustments? And how can you up your iron intake to stay on top of your workouts? All the answers are below.
Why does anemia impact my ability to exercise?
Oxygen is a key ingredient in your workout. Yes, you need more of it when your breathing gets heavier. But oxygen is also vital for energy levels and muscle strength. And since iron is responsible for getting oxygen to every part of your body, low iron can put a dent in your exercise routine.
Iron also plays a big role in energy metabolism, immune health, and brain function. In fact, 6% of all the iron we absorb is used for respiration and generating energy.
That’s why iron deficiency anemia can decrease your endurance and recovery time and increase fatigue and muscle pain. It can also cause lactic acid build-up in your bloodstream. And since your muscles aren’t getting as much iron-rich protein, they won’t be able to move as powerfully as they used to.
If this sounds like a perfect storm for a not-so-perfect workout, that’s because it is.
Can exercise also cause anemia?
Yes. You see this happen a lot in long-distance runners. With all the high-intensity workouts, excessive sweating, and foot striking, it’s easy for iron to deplete faster than runners can restore it.
Some researchers also believe that intense exercise creates a blocking effect in your body. So even if you’re consuming high levels of iron, your body can’t absorb it.
How do I know if an iron deficiency is affecting my workout?
Some signs of iron deficiency anemia during exercise can be hard to spot. Others are impossible to miss. Here are a few of the most common ones:
If any of the above sounded a bit too familiar, it’s a good idea to get your iron levels tested. To learn more about how iron tests work, click here. Once you get your results back, you can work with your doctor to figure out next steps.
Is it safe to continue exercising knowing my iron levels are low?
The more exercise you do, the more iron you need. That’s why doing heavy exercise with anemia can worsen the deficiency, add to your symptoms, and even cause more dangerous, long-term health issues down the line. In other words, rest day might be your new BFF.
But there are ways to exercise safely with an iron deficiency. It’s all about being mindful and taking your time.
First off, take regular breaks. If your body is asking for a time out, listen to it. That will give your body a chance to circulate oxygen before you start moving again.
Another tip: exercise when you’re feeling most energized. Whether that’s the morning or night, those are the times when your iron levels are highest. If you do choose to exercise, always monitor your heart rate and make sure it stays in the low end.
Most of all, take recovery seriously. If you have anemia, you probably won’t bounce back from a workout as quickly as you normally would. Give your body time to rest and relieve the lactic acid build-up in your bloodstream.
Before you try any of the above, talk to your doctor about what adjustments or new workout habits are safest for you and your unique condition.
What exercises can I do if I have iron deficiency anemia?
Anemia doesn’t mean your workout days are over. After all, physical activity is important for a healthy, balanced lifestyle. There are so many amazing ways you can move your body safely with an iron deficiency.
Instead of sweating it out at a HIIT class or running another mile, spring for low-intensity workouts like yoga, swimming, walking, light biking, or dancing. As you continue to improve your iron deficiency, you can slowly introduce higher intensity exercises.
While you’re at it, do shorter workouts. Start with 10 to 15 minutes and go up from there depending on how well your body is responding. Remember — a 15 minute workout is better than no workout.
Incorporate more low-intensity exercise into your daily life. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or walk to the store instead of driving. These small moments of movement can still keep your health in check while giving your iron deficiency room to improve.
And one more time for the people in the back: always ask your doctor about what exercises are right for you. You can work together to build out a workout routine that aligns with your condition.
Can exercise sometimes help anemia?
Good news: the right kind of regular exercise has the potential to improve anemia. How? By reducing chronic fatigue. Certain aerobic exercises can also produce more red blood cells, which boost the amount of hemoglobin and iron in the body.
By making the exercise adjustments outlined in this blog, you can work towards a workout schedule that might actually diminish your iron deficiency over time.
How can I increase my iron intake so I can keep exercising?
The quickest and most effective way to boost your iron is with a Liposomal iron supplement like Ferosom Forte.
Ferosom has a proprietary LCE Coat™ that protects it from acid breakdown as it moves through the stomach. Because of this acid, most supplements lose a large percentage of their iron by the time they get where they’re supposed to go. That’s what causes those nasty gastro-intestinal side effects.
But since Ferosom Forte comes in Liposomal form with a protective coating, it has a higher absorption rate and a lower risk of painful side effects. Plus, it’s infused with Vitamin C to naturally boost absorption even more.
Anemia is a condition caused by low iron. Iron produces hemoglobin, which carries oxygen, nutrients, and heat all over the body through red blood cells. It’s a crucial nutrient for your overall health — and body temperature. Still, up to 25% of the entire world population struggles with an iron deficiency. Not cool.
Low iron makes it harder for your body to generate, store, and spread heat. That’s why several studies have proven that anemia is a major cause of poor thermoregulation and cold stress.
Read on to discover how it all works and what you can do to warm up and level out your body temp.
How does my body regulate temperature?
Your body is pretty amazing. So many pieces work together to keep you at your healthiest — and that includes your body temperature.
First up is the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that tells the rest of your body when it’s time to heat things up or cool things down. Think of it as your body’s thermostat.
Next is your thyroid gland. The thyroid controls your metabolism, which is crucial for creating heat in the body. It also helps you burn calories to generate warmth from head to toe.
Two more important parts of the thermoregulation puzzle are blood flow and body fat. If your bloodstream is moving seamlessly, it can help spread heat throughout the body. Meanwhile, body fat maintains the heat once it has spread.
And, like most processes in your body, overall health and wellbeing are crucial for temperature regulation. The healthier you are as a whole, the better your body will be at generating heat or cooling off.
Why am I always cold when everyone around me is just fine?
It’s called cold intolerance, and it’s more common than you might think.
Cold intolerance means you’re extremely sensitive to cold temperatures. It might be an “all over” feeling, or a sensation in certain parts of your body like your hands or feet.
There are many potential causes of cold intolerance. The most obvious is the temperature regulation system we just learned about. If your hypothalamus, thyroid, blood flow, or body fat aren’t thriving, your body won’t be able to generate heat and get it everywhere it needs to go.
Certain health conditions can also cause cold intolerance:
Does iron regulate body temperature?
Iron is an essential nutrient for so many reasons. It gives us energy, keeps us moving, and makes every part of our body function at its best. Temperature regulation is no exception.
As we know, iron creates hemoglobin, which moves oxygen across the body. When oxygen gets to your tissues, it helps them conserve and generate heat. But if you have low hemoglobin and your tissues aren’t getting enough oxygen, the opposite happens.
That’s how iron deficiency anemia blocks heat production, causes heat loss, and slows down your thyroid tissue’s normal hormone production.
It can also impact thermoregulation in more unexpected ways. For example, one of your body’s first physical responses to being cold is shivering. It’s supposed to create more heat through movement. But if you have low iron and your muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen, your muscle function decreases and even shivering becomes a struggle.
Case in point: research shows that more iron and red blood cells in the body = better temperature regulation.
Can low iron cause hypothermia?
Most people think of hypothermia as something that only happens if you’re out in the cold for too long. But it can sometimes be caused by health conditions, like diabetes, drug or alcohol abuse, thyroid issues, and anemia.
Anemia often causes something called hypoxia. It’s a fancy word for low oxygen in the tissues, which we know is a major symptom of iron deficiency. This can lead to hypoxia-induced hypothermia (sometimes called cold stress), which means your body is losing heat faster than it can generate it.
Signs of hypothermia include excessive shivering, shallow breathing, exhaustion, slurred speech, clumsiness, or a weak pulse. Hypothermia can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening if it is not treated effectively. If you or someone you’re with is showing signs of hypothermia, call the doctor immediately or go to urgent care if necessary.
Will increasing my iron intake improve my body’s ability to thermoregulate?
The answer is almost always yes, but it does depend on what’s causing your cold intolerance. Make sure you talk to your doctor first about your symptoms, health, and lifestyle before relying on an iron boost to solve the problem.
If you and your doc agree that more iron might help, there are a few ways to go about it. The first is adding more iron-rich foods to your diet, like:
Try eating more of these foods along with a source of Vitamin C, like orange juice or citrus fruits. Iron with vitamin c naturally increases iron absorption, so more iron can be stored in your body.
If you want a more convenient, quick, and effective way to boost your iron, a supplement is your best bet.
What’s the best iron supplement to regulate my body temperature?
Even though supplements are the fastest way to get more iron, a lot of people shy away from them. Why? Because most iron supplements cause horrible side effects, like constipation, nausea, bloating, and gas. These harsh gastro-intestinal (GI) symptoms can harm your overall health and make it even harder for your body to regulate temperature.
The trick is to find a supplement that is specially formulated to skip those side effects while increasing absorption. AKA, Ferosom Forte.
Microencapsulated in Liposomal form and infused with Vitamin C, Ferosom is designed for maximum absorption. It has a proprietary LCE Coat™ that protects it from acid breakdown as it moves through the stomach. That means more iron gets absorbed into your body, and less gets dissolved into your GI tract.
Why is Liposomal so awesome? The bioavailability of liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate. In other words, it has one of the highest absorption rates out there.
Discover Ferosom Forte here and talk to your doctor about how it can help get your body temperature back to normal.
]]>Sure, getting your iron levels tested might seem like a simple process. But the more you know about the ins and outs, the better you’ll understand your condition, which questions to ask, and how to have an informed conversation with your doctor.
Why is iron so important?
Iron is the nutrient responsible for producing red blood cells that hold hemoglobin — a protein that carries oxygen throughout your body. When your iron levels are low, your body is literally lacking oxygen. In other words, iron is pretty crucial to your overall health.
How often should I be checking my iron levels?
The answer isn’t the same for everybody. The frequency of testing and even the type of iron test you need can depend on how severe your iron deficiency is.
First thing’s first, keep an eye out for common symptoms of iron deficiency. Not sure what they are? We rounded up the top 15 signs that your iron is low in this blog post. If you’re noticing some of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor for an iron test ASAP.
Another time you need to get your iron levels checked? Pregnancy. Pregnant women are at a higher risk for iron deficiency anemia, because they suddenly need enough iron for two. Your doctor might ask you to take multiple iron tests throughout your pregnancy to make sure your levels are healthy.
Once your iron levels have been checked, your doctor will design a treatment plan based on your test results. From this point on, you’ll want to do regular testing to make sure you’re on track. For example, your doctor will typically schedule a follow-up test 6 months after your diagnosis.
And even if none of the above applies to you, it’s a good idea to get your iron levels tested every few years or so. Some signs are easy to miss, and you may be suffering from low iron without even realizing it.
How do you check iron levels?
There are a handful of ways. Your iron levels can be checked, diagnosed, and treated by your primary care doctor or other specialists, like hematologists (blood disease experts) and gastroenterologists (digestive system experts).
First, they’ll ask about your medical history — signs and symptoms of iron deficiency, diet, medications you’re taking, whether you're pregnant, and so on.
Next, they’ll do a physical exam to check for any signs of iron deficiency. This might include pale skin or nails, an irregular heartbeat, uneven breathing in the lungs, or an enlarged liver or spleen.
Even if your medical history and physical exam are both signalling an iron deficiency, the only way to truly know is through a diagnostic test. In other words, a blood sample — usually taken from a vein in your arm using a small needle.
What are the different types of iron tests?
There isn’t one simple blood test that can tell your doctor everything. It sometimes takes a group of tests to put all the pieces together.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC test is typically the first test your doctor will order to determine if you have anemia or an iron deficiency. This blood test measures two things: your hemoglobin levels and your hematocrit levels.
If either level is low, that’s a sign of iron deficiency anemia. But the CBC test doesn’t stop there. It also checks for how many white blood cells and platelets are in your blood and how big your red blood cells are. All of these results can tell your doc more about what’s going on in your body.
If the CBC test confirms that you have anemia, there are other tests that can help you understand what’s causing the iron deficiency.
Serum iron test
This test checks how much iron is in your serum — AKA the liquid portion of your blood. It’s often paired with a Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) test, which measures if there is too much or too little iron in your bloodstream, and a ferritin test to check how much iron is stored in your body (i.e. your ferritin levels).
These three tests work together to tell your doctor if you have too much iron or not enough, and most importantly, why. They’ll typically only be ordered if your CBC results come back abnormal.
Other procedures to understand your iron levels
These extra tests can give your doctor more information about your overall iron health.
What do the test results mean?
After all the tests are complete, your results will tell you whether you have an iron deficiency or iron overload. Both come with their own complications and concerns.
If your iron levels are too low, you might have iron deficiency anemia, another type of anemia, or thalassemia — a genetic disorder that makes it harder for your body to produce red blood cells.
If your iron levels are too high, you might have lead poisoning, liver disease, or hemochromatosis — another disorder that causes iron build-up.
Here’s the good news: most of these conditions can be treated with the right diet and the best iron supplements, or procedures. And remember, if your iron test results aren’t normal, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have a severe medical condition. For example, many women struggle with low iron simply because of blood loss during menstruation.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for my test?
The most common pre-test prep? Fasting. Most doctors will schedule your test for the morning, so that you can fast for at least 12 hours overnight.
Ultimately, the goal is to avoid anything that could impact your normal iron levels. If you recently ate iron-rich foods, took an iron supplement, or had a blood transfusion, it could effect your test results and give your doctor an inaccurate view of your iron needs.
On the other hand, your doctor might ask you to break the rules before a test so that they can measure a certain result. For example, if they think iron absorption is the problem, they might ask you to take an iron supplement right before the test.
When in doubt, ask your doctor what you can do to make sure your iron test is as effective as possible.
Is there a way to check your iron levels at home? Is it safe?
Hoping to avoid a doctor’s office? There are at-home iron testing options available.
Some at-home tests require you to gather a blood sample yourself, typically through a finger prick. Other tests can be ordered online from home, but you’ll still need to visit a blood lab.
An important reminder: some of these tests won’t give you the full picture of your iron health. For example, if the at-home test only checks for ferritin levels, it might not be able to tell you if you have an iron deficiency or not. Plus, at-home blood samples have the potential to be less safe and effective than a secure lab test done by a healthcare professional.
Whether you choose the at-home route or not, you should always talk to your doctor about which test is right for you and what to do next after getting your test results.
What else do I need to know to have an informed conversation with my doctor?
The most important thing is to listen to your body. Learn about the symptoms of iron deficiency and check in with yourself to see where those signs might be showing up. That will help you speak confidently about your symptoms when your doctor asks.
It’s also important to know your options for how to increase your iron intake. That way you have an idea of what questions you might have, what you feel comfortable with, and what you’re curious to try.
Here are a few of the most common ways to up your iron:
Ferosom Forte is a Liposomal iron supplement with a proprietary LCE Coat™. This coating protects the iron from acid breakdown as it moves through your body, so that more iron can get where it needs to go — and you can skip the painful side effects associated with most iron supplements. The result? An absorption rate similar to certain doses of IV iron.
Plus, Ferosom is infused with Vitamin C for even higher absorption. It also comes in both capsule or sachet form, so you can add it to your favourite beverage if you don’t want to take a pill.
Low iron impacts not only your performance as a runner, but your overall health and wellbeing. Female runners are especially at risk for iron deficiency because of menstruation.
So, how can you keep iron levels high while keeping your race time low? Here’s everything runners need to know about iron.
Why do runners need iron?
Think of iron as your personal oxygen tank. Iron produces a protein called hemoglobin, which helps your red blood cells carry oxygen to your muscles and tissues. It also helps you metabolize carbohydrates — your muscles’ main energy source.
An iron deficiency doesn’t just rob your body of oxygen. It also impacts the strength, power, and stamina of your muscles — especially during high-intensity exercise, like endurance running. That’s why most runners with low iron will notice a significant dip in their performance levels.
Can running cause iron deficiency?
You bet. Iron deficiency can impact up to 17% of male runners and 50% of female runners. There are a few reasons why.
Higher hepcidin
Exercise can often cause natural inflammation in the body, which releases a hormone called hepcidin. This hormone is like an iron blocker. Even if you’re eating one ribeye steak a day, running can trigger the release of excess hepcidin — making it harder for all that dietary iron to be absorbed into your body.
Sweat
Iron, along with other vitamins and minerals, can seep out in your sweat. For endurance athletes in hotter climates, this might be a big contributor to lower-than-normal iron levels.
Foot strike hemolysis
Did you know you can lose iron by your feet hitting the ground? It’s called foot strike hemolysis, and yes — it’s real.
As your feet hit the ground during a run, it’s possible for red blood cells to get damaged, causing hemoglobin levels in the body to drop. If you’re a high-mileage runner, foot strike hemolysis might be stealing more iron than you’re able to bring in.
Everyday iron loss
Iron can also be lost through urine, the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract, and menstruation — whether you’re a runner or not.
Symptoms of iron deficiency in runners.
One of the first signs of low iron in runners is fatigue. Struggling to keep your normal pace or feeling exhausted during and after runs are red flags for iron deficiency.
Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, and an increased or irregular heart rate. For a breakdown of the top 15 signs of an iron deficiency, click here.
Noticing some of these symptoms already? It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor about testing for an iron deficiency. The simple blood test will give you and your physician a gauge for where your iron levels are at and what you should be working towards moving forward.
What is runner’s anemia?
Iron deficiency and anemia are similar but unique conditions.
In both cases, your ferritin levels — AKA how well iron is being stored in your body — are low. But if you’re anemic, that means your hemoglobin levels are also very low. That’s a warning sign that it’s time to take your iron seriously.
Runner’s anemia can severely impact your performance. More than that, it can take the enjoyment out of your run and hurt your overall health.
Should I stop running if my iron is low?
If you think you might have an iron deficiency, your doctor is the best person to answer that Q.
Every runner is unique and so their treatment plan will be too. Your doctor might recommend a break from running or a change in frequency or distance. Ultimately, there are several things you can do to boost iron absorption while staying in the running game.
What can runners to do increase iron absorption?
Diet
Step one: eat! Include more iron-rich foods in your diet, such as:
Eating more of these foods every day is a great start, but your body isn’t the best at absorbing dietary iron. Here are a few things you can do to help boost absorption during meals.
Avoid coffee, milk, or tea while eating iron-rich foods. These beverages are full of calcium, which can suppress iron absorption. Instead, spring for extra Vitamin C during mealtime. A glass of OJ, an orange, or even a Vitamin C supplement can increase absorption and help your body make the most of all the iron you’re eating.
Meal timing
When you eat iron can actually make a big difference in how much of it gets absorbed. A recent study found that the best time for iron absorption is in the morning — right after a run.
Runners who consumed iron within the first half-hour after a 90-minute morning run absorbed 40% more iron than they did for an afternoon run. That’s because hepcidin levels are highest in the afternoon, so a post-noon run can actually inhibit iron absorption.
Long story short: try eating your most iron-rich meal after your morning exercise routine. Over time, you should start to feel a little more pep in your pace.
Choose the right iron supplement
Iron supplements are an easy and effective way to get high levels of iron into your body.
The only problem? Up to 70% of runners who take oral iron experience some sort of GI side effect. Constipation, bloating, gas — you name it, most iron supplements can cause it.
When a supplement isn’t formulated the right way, the iron can get broken down by acid along the GI tract. Instead of absorbing into your system, the iron exits your body and causes trouble along the way. That’s why the best iron supplement for runners is one that is specially formulated to increase absorption while curbing those nasty side effects.
The best iron supplement for runners.
Ferosom Forte is microencapsulated in Liposomal form and protected by a proprietary LCE Coat™. This means it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it. Best of all, the protective coating keeps the iron safe from acid breakdown so it can go directly to your intestine and absorb into your lymphatic stream — with minimal side effects.
The bioavailability of Ferosom’s liposomal iron is 3.5 times greater than the free pyrophosphate iron, 2.7 times higher than iron sulfate, and 4.1 times higher compared with iron gluconate.
In other words, this doctor-recommended supplement is perfect for runners who want to solve or prevent an iron deficiency. Plus, it’s infused with Folic acid and Vitamins D, B6, B12, and C for all the nutrients your body could need (and extra iron absorption, of course).
Would you rather take your iron in capsule or sachet form? Ferosom has both. Click here to try the only Liposomal iron supplement in Canada and keep your stride safe from iron deficiency.
]]>Iron is like water. Every part of your body needs it to function — from your head down. That’s why, when your iron is low, the symptoms can show up in all sorts of strange places.
It’s easy to brush off a lot of these symptoms like they’re nothing. But iron deficiency is a serious condition that can have major long-term effects on your health. Here’s why.
Why do we need iron?
Iron is a superhero nutrient. It helps produce red blood cells that hold a protein called hemoglobin. These hemoglobin-packed cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Yeah, they’re a pretty big deal.
Every organ, tissue, and muscle in your body needs oxygen to function properly. When your iron levels drop, so do your hemoglobin levels, which means there’s less oxygen to be passed around.
Your body will tell you when it’s low on oxygen. But here’s the catch: a lot of your body’s warning signs are hard to spot. Symptoms like fatigue, cold hands, or pale skin might just feel like another day in the life. (Fellow Canadians, we feel your pain).
That’s why it’s so important to keep a close eye on your overall health, so you can catch the symptoms of iron deficiency — like the 15 you’re about to learn about — before they snowball into an even worse condition, like anemia or heart failure.
15 common signs of an iron deficiency
Want to hold on to those luscious locks? Keep your iron levels in check.
Iron is one of the most important nutrients for hair growth and a healthy scalp. If you notice you’re losing more hair than usual or that your hair feels extra brittle, iron deficiency might be to blame.
Endless notifications, distractions, and cell phone dings — having an attention span is hard enough these days. Add in an iron deficiency and concentrating on anything feels next to impossible.
Since hemoglobin is responsible for sending oxygen to the brain, low iron can slow down the brain’s function. This makes it harder to focus on a task, think clearly, or work productively.
Breathing might feel like second nature, but it takes a lot of moving parts to make your respiratory system work. One of those parts is — you guessed it — iron.
Iron helps carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your iron levels are low, that puts a dent in the entire breathing process. You might feel out of breath, easily exerted, or like you’re struggling to breathe normally.
Are your nails looking a little weak? Are they growing in weird ways? Iron deficiency could be the culprit.
When your iron levels are low, your nails aren’t getting the nutrients they need to thrive. They might chip easily or refuse to grow. You might even notice strange markings, ripples, or indents on the surface. If you spot any of these warning signs, an iron supplement could do a lot more than a mani-pedi.
One of the most common signs of low iron is a constant urge to move your legs. That’s why about 15% of people who suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) have an iron deficiency.
RLS is a frustrating condition that causes people to lose control of their leg movements, even during rest. It can make sleep feel almost impossible and often gets worse as people age. Research shows that increasing your iron intake through food or an iron supplement can help ease the symptoms.
Even if you don’t have RLS, low iron might cause you to feel a tingling sensation in your legs. Pay attention to that feeling and talk to your doctor if it persists.
Your muscles are working overtime to keep you on the move. All of that work requires a lot of vitamins and nutrients to maintain strength and flexibility. Iron is just one of them.
If your muscles are feeling sore and achy from easy, everyday activities, talk to your doctor about how iron deficiency might be playing a part.
Is your skin looking a few shades lighter than usual? This is one of the most common symptoms of low iron.
Hemoglobin helps give your skin that rosy, warm glow. When hemoglobin decreases, your skin won’t get as much blood flow as it usually does. The result? All sorts of paleness and discolouration.
If your skin looks extra pink, grey, or yellow, it might be time to double up on your iron intake. And remember, paleness can impact more than your skin. You might notice your gums, the inside of your lips, tongue, or fingernails are also discoloured.
So, you’re finding random bruises all over your body and you have no idea where they came from? It’s most likely not a Sixth Sense situation.
Bruises happen when the small blood vessels just beneath our skin get broken by a blow or excess pressure. The little vessels bleed out, which shows up as a dark black, blue, or red colour on the surface.
What stops the bleeding? Powerful blood cells called platelets. They help create blood clots so that the vessels can heal themselves. But these platelets need a healthy dose of iron to thrive — surprise, surprise.
If you’re experiencing frequent bruising, that means the clotting system (AKA the platelets) aren’t working the way they’re supposed to. Upping your iron might be the cure to your bruising battle.
Iron deficiencies are 18% more common in women than men. A big reason for that is menstruation. Women lose a significant amount of blood every month, causing healthy red blood cells to flow out of the system.
That’s why women who suffer from menorrhagia, also known as heavy bleeding, often struggle with iron deficiency anemia too.
Low iron can also cause more period problems. An iron deficiency can make it harder for your body to regulate blood flow. This can result in longer and heavier bleeding, excessive cramping, and intense mood swings during menstruation.
It’s normal to feel a little tired every now and then. But if you’re constantly in a state of fatigue, your body is trying to tell you something.
Fatigue is one of the most prevalent symptoms of iron deficiency. Without enough hemoglobin to carry oxygen to all your muscles and tissues, your whole body can feel sluggish, slow, and just plain sleepy.
Most of the time, blood is circulating through your entire body at a healthy rate. But if oxygen and iron levels are low, your blood flow might not have enough juice to make it all the way to your fingertips and toes.
That’s when your hands and feet can start feeling cold to the touch. By boosting your iron, you should be able to increase circulation and get a steady rush of warmth where it’s needed most.
We know this one sounds a little crazy. But it’s actually one of the telltale signs that your iron levels need attention.
Anemic people can sometimes develop a syndrome called pica. This syndrome can make you crave all sorts of stuff that you wouldn’t normally crave — like dirt, ice, or clay. It’s unclear exactly what causes pica, but a high-quality iron supplement has been proven to keep those strange cravings at bay.
Unless you really do love eating dirt. No judgements.
Struggling with constant headaches or random dizzy spells? It could be low iron causing a lack of oxygen to your brain.
Headaches, dizziness, lightheadness, and even fainting are some of the first signs that can tip off an iron deficiency. If these symptoms stick around, don’t dismiss them. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
When hemoglobin levels shrink, your body will try to circulate blood faster so that it can get the small amount of oxygen it has to as many places as possible. To make this happen, your heart has to pump faster than normal.
That’s how iron deficiency can lead to increased heart rate, heart palpitations, an irregular heartbeat, and even chest pains. And if left untreated, you could develop more long-term heart issues down the line.
Also known as mouth ulcers, canker sores are sore white or yellow patches on the inside of your mouth, usually surrounded by red inflammation. These little guys hurt big-time. And they might be a sign that you aren’t getting enough iron.
A recent study found that 66% of mouth ulcer cases also had lower than normal iron levels. Increasing your iron could be the cure for those painful cankers.
What can I do if my iron levels are low?
These symptoms are common, but they aren’t one size fits all. Some people with low iron might have super cold hands, while others might struggle with constant headaches. The trick is to be aware of the many symptoms of an iron deficiency, so that you can take action when your unique symptoms start to show.
But how do you take action? Great question.
You can up your iron by eating more iron-rich foods, like red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, nuts and seeds, iron-fortified bread, and dark green leafy vegetables.
But if you’re looking for a big-time iron boost, try a Liposomal iron supplement like Ferosom Forte.
Liposomal iron not only has a higher absorption rate, but also skips the stomach breakdown to avoid the awful side effects associated with most supplements for anemia. (Click here to learn more about the power of Liposomal iron.)
Ferosom Forte is no exception. Its proprietary LCE coating and Liposomal form work together to make sure your body is actually absorbing all the iron it needs to. Plus, the supplement is infused with Vitamin C – iron with vitamin c help enhance absorption. That means increased iron levels, more hemoglobin, and less of those 15 frustrating symptoms.
You in? Try it in capsule form or mix the sachet supplement in with your favourite beverage!
Already love Ferosom and want to refer a friend? Join our referral program and get 15% off your next order!
]]>Anemia is so common in Crohn’s disease, that it often feels like part of the deal. Symptoms of anemia, like fatigue or headaches, can easily get mistaken for just another Crohn’s symptom. In reality, there are ways to relieve those low iron pains while working to heal the underlying condition.
So, why does Crohn’s usually come with a big side of anemia? And what can you do about it if you or a loved one is living with the condition? Keep reading for all the answers.
What is Crohn’s disease?
Let’s begin with the basics. Crohn’s is a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that works exactly how it sounds: causing inflammation in the digestive tract. This makes it hard for your body to not only break food down, but to use food in all the ways it’s supposed to. It’s like a not-so-perfect storm for abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition.
But one of the most common symptoms of Crohn’s is actually fatigue. You might feel out of it, unenergized, or just plain tired. Why? Because about 45% of people who have IBD also have iron deficiency anemia.
Does Crohn's disease cause iron deficiency anemia?
You bet. And it’s the most common type of anemia in Crohn’s disease.
Iron deficiency anemia is when your body lacks hemoglobin — the superhero protein in red blood cells that helps to carry oxygen to the rest of your body. It comes with some pretty awful side effects, such as:
If you have Crohn’s or another type of IBD, it’s recommended that you get your iron levels checked every 6 to 12 months.
How does Crohn’s disease cause anemia?
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one simple answer. Crohn’s disease can lead to anemia for a number of reasons.
The first? Bleeding in the digestive tract. Crohn’s can cause ulcers to sneak underneath the inner layer of the intestines, forcing blood vessels to break open. When the body loses that much blood, it also loses a lot of hemoglobin. Enter: anemia. In fact, blood loss is one of the most common causes of anemia in IBD.
According to James F. Marion, MD, a gastroenterologist and IBD expert, most people with Crohn’s don’t realize that they’re losing blood. Since it happens slowly over time, they might not even experience symptoms.
Another way Crohn’s can cause low iron is through inflammation and swelling. When your body is inflamed, it can’t absorb as much iron as you need. That’s one of the reasons why about 70% of people with Crohn’s need surgery to remove the parts of their digestive tract that are most impacted by inflammation and blood loss.
A Vitamin B12 deficiency might also be the culprit. All that inflammation makes it harder for your intestines to absorb B12 naturally. This can lead directly to decreased hemoglobin and low ferritin Crohn’s disease.
And on top of all that, Crohn’s disease makes it hard to tolerate certain foods. If those foods just so happen to be your main source of iron, that alone can lead to a serious iron deficiency.
What can someone with Crohn’s do to boost their iron levels?
If you think you have iron deficiency anemia, the best course of action is to treat Crohn’s disease itself. But to start increasing your iron levels (and easing your symptoms) in the meantime, an iron game plan is key.
You can start by adding more iron-rich foods to your diet, as long as they don’t aggravate your Crohn’s. Foods that are high in iron include:
In more serious situations, your doctor might recommend IV iron infusions. This is a quick and direct way to increase your iron levels, especially if your symptoms of anemia are starting to impact your quality of life.
But if needles make you a bit squeamish, the most effective, consistent, and convenient way to boost your iron is a high-quality oral iron supplement.
What’s the best iron supplement for Crohn’s?
Many iron supplements cause harsh gastro-intestinal side effects. If you suffer from Crohn’s, that’s basically the opposite of what you want. That’s why Ferosom Forte is the only LCE coated oral iron supplement in Canada proven to treat anemia caused by Crohn’s and chronic inflammation in IBD.
Non-absorbed iron is actually proven to be toxic for people with Crohn’s disease and can make their symptoms worse. On top of that, chronic inflammation in the gastro-intestinal tract releases a hormone called Hepcidine, which is known to suppress your body’s ability to absorb oral iron.
Here’s where Ferosom Forte comes in. It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form, which means it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it. Plus, its absorption isn’t regulated by Hepcidin.
The result? Extremely high, IV-level absorption rates. And best of all, you can protect your digestive tract from going through any more harm.
Available in capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is doctor recommended, made in Canada, and paired with Vitamin C in each dose to make absorption even easier.
Living a healthy, fulfilled life with Crohn’s disease.
Although there’s no cure for Crohn’s yet, the condition can be managed with the right medication, procedures, and supplements. Work closely with your doctor to develop a unique treatment plan, including supplements like Ferosom Forte. By keeping iron deficiency anemia at a distance, you can focus on the most important thing: feeling healthy, strong, and in full control of your Crohn’s.
]]>Here’s the scoop: liposomal is a word we use a lot at Ferosom. It’s the element that makes our iron supplements superior to others, not to brag. (Okay, maybe we’re bragging a little). Most of all, it’s the reason why our iron supplements are able to change the lives of so many people who suffer from iron deficiencies and anemia.
Did we pique your interest? Good! Now, let’s dive in.
What does liposomal mean?
It all starts with lipids. Lipids are a group of molecules that can’t be dissolved in water, like fatty acids and cholesterol. Since water doesn’t mess with ‘em, lipids are actually crucial to your body’s natural function. More specifically, they help the cellular membrane do its thing — AKA the very important barrier that surrounds your cells and protects them from danger. No biggie.
Where does liposomal come in? Through liposomes: tiny, fat-soluble sacs that are derived from lipids.
What do liposomes do?
Liposomes are like supplement superheroes. They carry nutrients to different locations in your body, where they can then be absorbed. And, just like lipids, they aren’t bothered by water or other elements along the way. That means they can surround the nutrient, protect it from harm, and transport it where it needs to go — without doing any damage in the process.
What does liposomal delivery mean?
It’s all in the name. Liposomal delivery is when an ingredient is delivered to a place in your body by a liposome. Makes sense, right?
The best part about liposomal delivery is that it boosts the benefits of the nutrient. First of all, it protects the nutrient from harsh acids along the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract. These acids can often break down nutrients before they get to their destination, which means your body gets less of the nutrient.
Since liposomal delivery shields the nutrient from trouble, it increases nutrient absorption and shields you from awful GI side effects, like cramps, diarrhea, and nausea. Plus, it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it.
That’s why liposomal delivery has such incredible bioavailability. What’s that, you ask? Bioavailability is a measure of how much of a nutrient reaches the place it’s supposed to go. For example, if an iron supplement has high bioavailability, that means it reaches your intestine quickly without losing a ton of its nutrients along the way. From there, it can be absorbed into your lymphatic system and released to your liver.
Long story short, liposomal delivery = amazing. In fact, it’s one of the most effective methods out there for getting your body all the good stuff it needs to thrive.
What is liposomal iron?
Up to 25% of the world’s population suffers from low iron. That means a lot of people are looking to up their iron intake and asking themselves which form of iron is best absorbed. The answer? This one.
Liposomal iron is essentially iron that is encapsulated in a liposome. And — you guessed it — it has all those same liposome benefits we mentioned earlier.
Is liposomal iron better?
There’s no doubt about it.
Liposomal iron has better bioavailability, higher absorption, increased delivery to cells, and decreased GI side effects. It’s proven to yield better results than traditional supplements, even if you’re taking them at a much higher dose.
And since liposomal iron skips past acid breakdown and GI problems, it’s especially helpful for people who struggle with taking pills or need to take a lot of pills at once.
What is the best source of liposomal iron?
Ferosom Forte is one of the most effective sources of liposomal iron out there. Because of its super high absorption rate, it’s proven to work as well as IV iron. Seriously. That’s why so many doctors across Canada recommend it to their patients with low iron or iron deficiency anemia.
Available in capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte’s proprietary LCE Coat™ is like a supplement bodyguard. It takes the iron exactly where it needs to go in your body, without breaking down in your stomach and causing GI pain.
Want to learn more about the dangers of low iron, how Ferosom Forte works, and why liposomal is the key to curing your iron deficiency? Click here.
]]>Also known as canker sores, mouth ulcers are white or yellow patches that are typically surrounded by red inflammation. There are two types of canker sores: simple and complex.
Simple canker sores are the most common and will show up about 3 or 4 times in a year, usually lasting for a week each time. Complex canker sores are larger, more painful, and can sometimes last up to six weeks. These are more rare and far more painful, often making eating and drinking feel impossible.
Whether your mouth ulcers are simple or complex, there are several potential reasons why they exist in the first place. From low iron to high acidity, here are all the main causes of canker sores — and how you can prevent these pesky pains.
What are the common causes of mouth ulcers?
Mouth Injuries & Irritations
Have you ever chomped down on your gum by accident and wound up with an awful canker sore? You’re not the only one.
Trauma or injury to the inside of the mouth is one of the most common culprits behind mouth ulcers. This could include biting your gums or tongue, eating something rough or hard, irritating dental equipment (like braces), harsh mouthwashes, brushing your teeth too hard, or not brushing enough.
Vitamin Deficiencies
When your body isn’t getting the amount of vitamins it needs to thrive, it finds ways to tell you. Canker sores are the perfect example.
Vitamin deficiencies can lead to canker sores because your body doesn’t have what it needs to keep your mouth bacteria naturally balanced and healthy.
Other Causes
You might also suffer from a canker sore if you:
But one of the top reasons why canker sores keep cramping your style? Nutritional deficiencies, from folic acid to zinc, calcium, and — the big one here at Ferosom — iron.
Can low iron cause mouth sores?
Absolutely. In fact, a recent study found that 66% of mouth ulcer cases also had lower than normal ferritin levels.
What’s ferritin? Glad you asked. Ferritin is a fancy word for a protein where iron is stored in the body. If you have low levels of ferritin, it means your body doesn’t have enough absorbed iron to work with. This can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which has a ton of negative effects on the body, including:
Can anemia cause other mouth problems?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Iron deficiency anemia can damage the surface of your tongue, making it feel sore seemingly out of nowhere. Low iron can also cause red, flaky, painful cracks at the sides of your mouth.
What is the best way to treat a canker sore?
Canker sores can typically heal without treatment after a week or two. However, there are a number of over-the-counter products that can help ease the pain while it heals.
If the canker sore is complex or not healing, you may need a prescription to treat it. Your doctor might suggest an antibacterial mouth rinse or corticosteroid ointment.
When treating a canker sore, it’s also a great idea to have your doctor screen for iron deficiency anemia. Since it’s such a common cause of mouth ulcers, you might be able to catch the culprit red-handed and work towards increasing your iron intake through solutions like iron supplements.
Ferosom Forte is an iron supplement that is proven to work as well as IV iron. It has a proprietary LCE coating and liposomal form, so it can bypass your stomach acid and achieve a higher absorption rate than other iron supplements (without the awful side effects).
How should I prevent mouth ulcers?
Once you know the main causes of mouth ulcers, you can work towards preventing them by doing the opposite. Here are a few of the best ways to keep canker sores at a distance.
Most of all? Ask your doctor to help you identify any vitamin or nutritional deficiencies and take action to turn them around. For example, taking a daily iron supplement to avoid anemia-related canker sores.
Ferosom Forte is clinically proven to boost your iron and ferritin levels. It’s microencapsulated in Liposomal form, which means it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it. And with the addition of our proprietary LCE coating, Ferosom Forte avoids acid breakdown in the stomach and goes right to where you need it most.
Plus, it’s available in both sachet and capsule form, so you can enhance your iron any way you want to.
“But I just figured out the last one?!” You shout. We feel you.
Unfortunately, even the healthiest and most balanced diet can often leave you lacking in the immune department. That’s where supplements come in.
To up your cold and flu protection game, we asked nutritionists and health experts about the best vitamins and supplements to keep your immune system in check. By adding these powerful supplements to your daily routine, you can improve your chances of staying healthy — even if everyone around you is sniffling up a storm.
Why is my immune system such a big deal?
Your immune system is your body’s way of protecting you against harmful bacteria, viruses and diseases. If it’s weak or not working properly, you’re more likely to get sick.
Unfortunately, keeping your immune system strong doesn’t just come down to drinking one green juice and calling it a day. There are a variety of factors that keep sickness at bay, like maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and minimizing stress.
*Eye roll* “Oh, is that all?” We know — easier said than done.
Ideally, you’d get all the adequate nutrients you need from a healthy and balanced diet. But when you’re juggling your job, relationships, and the stress of a pandemic (no big deal), that’s not always possible. Enter: supplements.
What are the best supplements to avoid getting sick?
If you’re not getting the right amount of nutrients through diet alone, supplements can help fill that nutritional gap and improve your immune response. These nutrients, in particular, are proven to help the immune system perform at its peak.
Vitamin C
The real question is: what can’t this supplement do? Here are some highlights.
Vitamin C is an incredibly powerful antioxidant, which makes it a great bacteria and virus fighter. It’s been shown to reduce your risk of chronic disease and can even improve memory and brain function as you age. Most of all, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron and prevent iron deficiency. That’s why Ferosom Forte iron supplements are infused with vitamin C to dramatically increase absorption rates.
Vitamin D
Sometimes referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D helps boost your body’s immune response. It has anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties and can even enhance the function of your immune cells — which is really a fancy way of saying that vitamin D prevents infection. Sign us up.
Plus, for Canadians who get approximately 2 weeks of sunshine per year, taking supplements during the winter can help prevent vitamin D deficiency.
Zinc
Ever reach for a zinc lozenge when you start feeling a tickle in your throat? You aren’t the only one. The body needs zinc to keep the immune system strong, which makes it an effective supplement for fighting off colds and other sicknesses.
While low levels of zinc can leave you more vulnerable to colds, don’t go crazy with it. Too much zinc can actually reduce your immune function. It’s all about balance, friends.
Iron
Iron is essential to a healthy, resilient immune system. While men only need around 8 mg of iron in their diet, women need up to 18 mg (27 mg if pregnant). This makes women far more susceptible to iron deficiency or anemia, especially since they lose blood every month during menstruation.
To avoid infections, illness, and complications from low iron, take a high-quality iron supplement, like Ferosom Forte. Unlike other supplements that cause nasty side effects, Ferosom has a proprietary LCE coating that protects it from breaking down in the stomach. Plus, its liposomal form means it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it.
Selenium
Seleni-what? This underrated nutrient is an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and enhance immunity. Selenium deficiency has been shown to harm immune cell function and could even lead to a slower immune response.
Like zinc, taking too much selenium can lead to some not-so-fun side effects, from hair loss and muscle soreness to more serious intestinal and neurological symptoms.
Remember: loading your system up with more vitamins than it can handle won’t magically supercharge your immune system. And in some cases, it can actually lead to more damage. Make sure you talk to your doctor about the supplements you’re taking and how to optimize them for your health.
What are some of the best sources of vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant, natural antihistamine, and anti-inflammatory that helps your immune cells identify and kill bacteria. We know, she’s kind of a big deal.
The only problem? Your body doesn’t naturally produce it. That’s why vitamin C is classified as an essential vitamin. While most nutrition experts recommend taking at least one vitamin C supplement every day, you can also up your intake with these immune-boosting foods:
And as you now know, vitamin C is also necessary for your body to absorb iron. In fact, consuming just 100 mg of vitamin C can improve iron absorption by 67%.
Do your iron levels play a part in boosting your immune system?
Survey says: absolutely. Your immune system has two parts: the specific and non-specific (or innate) immune system. Iron deficiency can affect your non-specific immune system, which is your body’s first line of defence against germs. Long story short, low iron levels make you more susceptible to sickness.
Plus, healthy iron levels can reduce fatigue, improve muscle endurance, and improve concentration. Safe to say, iron is the key to your healthiest self.
What is the best way to boost my immune system naturally?
If there was one magic pill we could take to transform our immune system, we’d be first in line. But until scientists figure that one out, the best way to prevent sickness naturally is by maintaining a balance between:
Wondering which supplements your body needs most? Talk to your doctor about the best vitamins and doses for your unique health.
Ready to supercharge your immune system with an iron supplement? Ferosom Forte has the best absorption rate next to IV iron. Yep, you read that right. Click here to learn more.
]]>While a heavy flow comes with a world of complications — from cramps to blood clots — it can also put you at risk for developing iron deficiency anemia. Why? Because you’re losing a lot of blood. And if your iron levels can’t keep up with the blood loss, your body goes on red alert (no pun intended).
So, what exactly causes heavy bleeding? And how can you avoid anemia if your flow just won’t stop flowing? Here’s everything you need to know about menorrhagia and low iron.
What is menorrhagia and how do I know if I have it?
Also known as heavy uterine bleeding (HUB), menorrhagia is a condition that affects over 10 million women every year in the US alone.
The tough part about heavy bleeding is that a lot of women don’t realize that their flow is out of the ordinary. But if you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about testing for menorrhagia:
Reading that list of period nightmares, it’s no surprise that heavy bleeding can often stop you from doing day-to-day activities. And if left untreated, menorrhagia can cause more serious health issues, such as fibroids.
What causes heavy bleeding?
There are several potential causes of HUB, from pregnancy complications to cancer and IUDs. But one of the most common culprits is an imbalance in your hormones.
Let’s flashback to grade school sex ed for a sec. In a healthy menstrual cycle, there’s a good balance between the hormones estrogen and progesterone. They work together to release an egg from your ovaries and build up a lining for it in your uterus. Then, if the egg doesn’t fertilize, that lining sheds and voila! Your period arrives.
But if your hormones are out of balance, that uterine wall lining can build up too much, causing excessive bleeding when it sheds. These hormone imbalances can be caused by a number of health concerns, including obesity, insulin resistance, thyroid problems, PCOS, and your ovaries simply not working properly.
If you think hormones might be messing with your flow, talk to your doctor about how you can get ‘em back in balance.
How does heavy bleeding affect my iron levels?
Simple: blood loss. When you lose an abnormal amount of blood, it depletes your body’s iron stores. Iron is responsible for producing hemoglobin, a substance that helps carry oxygen to your body’s tissues through your red blood cells.
So if you lack iron, you lack healthy red blood cells. The result? Iron deficiency anemia.
What is iron deficiency anemia?
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world. It’s also the leading cause of anemia, which is a condition that happens when you lack red blood cells.
So then, what exactly is iron deficiency anemia? Simply put, it’s what happens when your body tries to make up for the lost red blood cells by using your iron stores to make hemoglobin. (If all of this sounds like a vicious cycle, that’s because it is.)
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include:
It can also be hereditary. One study found that 50% of participants with iron deficiency anemia had a family history of the condition, suggesting that their susceptibility to low iron was in their genes. Meanwhile, some women with anemia experience no symptoms at all.
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by a lack of iron in your diet, pregnancy, and poor iron absorption capabilities. But the most common cause is blood loss from conditions like gastro-intestinal bleeding, ulcers, hernias, colon cancer, and — of course — menstruation. That’s why iron deficiencies are up to 18% more prevalent in women than men (as if periods weren’t already a pain).
How can I prevent iron deficiency if I get heavy periods?
Although HUB is something far too many women experience, it doesn’t mean you have to live with low iron. Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent iron deficiency anemia and restore iron levels that have been hit hard.
Update your diet
By eating more iron-rich foods, you can start to naturally restock your iron stores. Foods that are high in iron include:
To boost iron absorption, always pair these foods with a good source of Vitamin C and avoid foods that hurt absorption, like dairy, coffee, and tea.
IV iron
If your iron deficiency is more serious, your doctor might prescribe IV iron infusions. Typically, these sessions take place over 4 to 6 weeks. This method of treatment is only for severe cases of iron deficiency anemia.
Iron supplements
Supplements are one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat iron deficiencies. Some women shy away from iron supplements because they’re known to cause nasty gastro-intestinal side effects. The trick is to find a supplement that is specially formulated to skip over those side effects, like Ferosom Forte.
Ferosom Forte iron supplements are in Liposomal form and use a proprietary LCE coating to protect the iron from stomach acids as it moves through the system. Unlike other iron supplements, Ferosom is almost fully absorbed past the gut and in the intestinal tract. This means little to no free-floating (or unabsorbed) iron, which is what causes most of the side effects from typical iron supplements.
Available in both sachet and capsule form, Ferosome Forte is proven to work as well as certain doses of IV iron. Plus, it’s infused with Vitamin C to help maximize absorption. Best of all, it tastes great, can be taken at any time, and isn’t impacted by food or drink!
But for those of us who have iron deficiencies, supplements are often the most effective way to boost our iron intake and keep our health in check.
So, why exactly do most iron supplements for anemia cause these side effects? And what can you do about it? This blog breaks down everything you need to know, including what makes a good iron supplement, well, good.
First, let’s talk about anemia.
Anemia is a condition in which you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. Women have a much higher risk of developing anemia, especially those who are prone to long periods with heavy bleeding. Seriously, did you ever think a lack of blood would be the problem with your period? *eye roll*
But anemia can also affect men, especially if their diet doesn’t include foods that are packed with iron or help with iron absorption. In other words, if you live off a diet of coffee and cereal, you might find yourself with fewer red blood cells.
The secret to fighting anemia? Iron. Iron is an essential element for blood production. It also boosts the immune system, aids cognitive function, and supports healthy skin, hair, and nails. Most people can fulfill their iron needs through food, such as meat. But not all of us are interested in stocking up on liver and bison burgers. So, what’s the alternative?
Enter, iron supplements.
Iron supplements are a great way to battle anemia and reverse an iron deficiency, especially if diet changes alone are unsuccessful. Usually taken orally, iron supplements help to build red blood cells and keep your iron levels balanced.
This increase in iron can also improve brain function, from basic learning to memory. But before you rush off to stock your online cart with the first supplement brand you can find, it’s important to know why certain brands lead to unpleasant side effects. It’s also important to talk to your doctor to make sure you take the amount of iron you need, as too much iron also has its share of negative health implications.
Why do most iron supplements cause gastro-intestinal (GI) side effects?
There are multiple factors that can play a role in whether or not you experience GI side effects from taking oral iron. Some of the most common factors include:
The simplest answer, however, is unabsorbed iron. For an iron supplement to be properly absorbed, it has to reach your intestine (where it then gets absorbed into your lymphatic stream and released into your liver). But before it gets there, your stomach acids will try to break it down. That’s when it becomes unabsorbed iron.
On top of that, some of our favourite healthy foods can actually inhibit iron absorption, such as spinach, nuts, beans, and egg whites. That’s a major bummer if you thought your new diet was #goals.
Although unabsorbed iron is eliminated naturally when we go to the bathroom, it can wreak havoc before it leaves our system. Side effects like cramps (great), diarrhea (fantastic), and nausea (sign me up) are just a few of the GI issues caused by low iron absorption.
Can iron supplements cause gastritis?
If those side effects weren’t enough, gastritis can be another painful result of unabsorbed iron.
Gastritis involves inflammation of the lining of the stomach and upper abdominal pain. In some cases, it can even lead to internal bleeding and stomach ulcers. While gastritis from oral iron supplements is rarer than other GI side effects, it’s important to consider when choosing which supplement to take.
What is the recommended dose to avoid side effects?
First thing’s first, ask your doctor for their recommendation. They know your body and health history best and can provide a personalized suggestion to help you steer clear of side effects.
If you already know you’re sensitive to iron, start with half the recommended dosage provided by your doc. Then slowly increase your dosing every few days, as tolerated, until you reach your daily intake.
Remember, the cells that line your intestine can only absorb a certain amount of iron at a time. If they get bombarded, that increases the risk of unabsorbed iron and painful GI problems. Avoid iron overloading by spacing out your doses and trying not to exceed 150 mg of iron per dose.
And most of all, take your iron supplements with food whenever you can. An empty stomach can increase your chances of GI pain, discomfort, and a whole lot of unabsorbed iron.
What supplements don’t cause GI side effects?
So, how do you know which iron supplements will give you the iron boost you need while minimizing side effects? It all comes down to the coating and the form.
For example, Ferosom Forte is an iron supplement brand that has developed proprietary technology to give their supplements an extra layer of protection against stomach acids. Ferosom’s LCE coating is like an iron bodyguard, shielding the supplement as it travels through the digestive system. This means more iron can be absorbed into your intestine and you can skip the constipation and nausea.
Plus, Ferosom is microencapsulated in Liposomal form, which means it doesn’t have to be converted for your body to absorb it. This leads to incredibly high, IV-level absorption rates. And as we know, the more iron your body can absorb, the less side effects you’ll experience and the more balanced your iron levels will be.
Available in capsule and sachet form, Ferosom Forte is Canadian-made, doctor-recommended, 100% vegan, and proven to work as well as certain doses of IV iron.
Learn more about Ferosom Forte and how it can improve your iron journey: https://www.ferosomcanada.com/
But for those of us with anemia, the warmer weather can actually be a burden. That’s why it’s so important to keep our iron balanced all summer long with a proper diet and effective supplements.
Wondering why your anemia gets hit harder in the heat? We’re breaking down everything you need to know about iron deficiencies in the summer, plus some tasty iron-rich recipes to keep your iron in check.
Why can anemia get worse in the summer months?
As much as we all love summer, it’s not exactly prime time for anemia. Since people with anemia have a lack of red blood cells to carry oxygen to their tissues, they also experience poor blood circulation. This makes it harder for their body to naturally regulate its own temperature.
That’s why anemia and low iron can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and heat intolerance. Symptoms can include heavy sweating, a rapid pulse, weakness and fatigue, and an overall feeling of being hot — even when other people in the same temperature are feeling easy-breezy.
The result? Most people with anemia end up feeling sick in the summer (not ideal when you’re trying to look cute on the beach).
What are the four main types of anemia?
Yep, there’s more than one. Here are the four main types of anemia and what you need to consider for each one as we head into summer.
This is the most common form of anemia. Iron deficiency occurs when your body simply can’t keep up with its need for iron. How can you treat it? Supplements for anemia and dietary changes are key (but more on that later).
It sounds fancy, but it’s definitely not fun. Pernicious anemia occurs when your body can’t absorb enough Vitamin B12 from food. Some people have conditions that prevent them from absorbing this necessary vitamin, while others simply don’t get enough B12 in their diets.
Looking to add extra B12 to your meals? Think about eating more meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, bread, and cereals.
This is where things get a bit more serious. When you have aplastic anemia, you have fewer blood cells in general — not just red blood cells. You’re most at risk for developing this type of anemia if you’re undergoing radiation or chemotherapy or if you have a condition that damages your blood marrow.
So, how can you treat aplastic anemia? Blood transfusions, marrow stem cell transplants, and certain lifestyle changes are just a few of the potential options. But unfortunately, simple changes to your diet won’t do the trick.
If you have hemolytic anemia, your red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made. This is typically caused by inherited blood or autoimmune disorders.
Just like aplastic anemia, this type of anemia needs a little more love than iron-rich foods can provide. Blood transfusions, surgery, and other procedures are needed to make sure your red blood cells stay intact.
What’s the difference between heme iron and non-heme iron?
Anemia is a year-round struggle, no matter which type you’re prone to. But with the right type of iron, you can steer clear of scary symptoms and take control of your iron deficiency — especially as the weather heats up.
There are two types of iron that can help you battle anemia: heme and non-heme. What’s the difference? Most notably, heme iron comes from animal sources while non-heme iron is vegetarian. But there’s also a slight difference when it comes to their chemical structure.
Heme iron sources are more bioavailable, which means they absorb better in the body. Non-heme iron, on the other hand, isn’t as bioavailable. If you’re vegetarian, that means the type of iron you’re digesting might not be as easily absorbed.
So, what can you do about it? Simple: pair your non-heme iron with Vitamin C. Iron with vitamin c acts as an iron enhancer, making it more bioavailable and increasing its absorption rate in the process.
Ferosom Forte’s non-heme iron supplement, for example, is infused with Vitamin C and has a proprietary LCE coating that protects it from being broken down by stomach acids. The result? It absorbs as well as certain doses of IV iron. Plus, it protects you from nasty gastro-intestinal side effects caused by most iron supplements.
And since Ferosom’s capsules and sachets are microencapsulated in liposomal form, they don’t have to be converted or supplemented by other foods for your body to absorb them. We call that a win-win-win.
What are the most iron-rich foods?
Before we get to some tasty summer recipes, let’s look at the ingredients that will be your iron deficiency’s new BFF.
Iron-rich foods include red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach and kale), dried fruits (like raisins and apricots), peas, and iron-fortified cereals, bread, and pasta. When in doubt, check the label to see if it’s iron-fortified!
Looking for iron-rich foods that also contain Vitamin C? Add broccoli, grapefruit, oranges, kiwi, melons, peppers, strawberries, tangerines, and tomatoes to your grocery list.
Recipes to boost your iron intake all summer long
Master Chef, here you come. Providing your body with the iron it needs can be fun, satisfying, and — most of all — delicious. Here are a few of our favourite iron-rich summer recipes!
Orange Green Smoothie
Our first iron-rich recipe is a refreshing breakfast or mid-day snack that can keep you cool this summer. Plus, it’s super high in Vitamin C (for optimal iron absorption, of course).
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Crispy Baked Beef and Black Bean Tacos
Taco time! This recipe is high in iron and perfect for a backyard dinner with friends and family.
Ingredients:
Taco Seasoning
Tacos
Optional toppings
Instructions:
Warm Black Rice, Edamame & Prawn Salad
Packed with iron and nutritious to boot, this unique summer salad is gluten-free and seriously tasty.
Ingredients:
Salad
Dressing
Instructions:
Summer’s got nothing on your iron intake
You deserve to enjoy every minute of summer without anemia getting in the way. By incorporating these ingredients and recipes into your weekly diet — and pairing them with a powerful iron supplement like Ferosom Forte — you can stay cool, healthy, and ironed up.