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Six signs you may have an iron deficiency

Around 20% of Kiwi women are thought to be iron deficient.
Iron-Deficiency

Around 20% of Kiwi women are thought to be anaemic or suffering from iron deficiency. You may have low levels of iron in your blood if you:

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  1. Get dizzy easily

  2. Feel weak and tired

  3. Have unusually pale skin

  4. Suffer from headaches

  5. Experience numbness or coldness in your hands or feet

  6. Have a low body temperature.

Anaemia can be due to many factors, including heavy periods, chronic illness such as Crohn’s or coeliac disease, or a deficiency of iron, folate or vitamin B12. Some substances can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb iron if they are eaten with iron-rich foods. These include:

  • Dairy and other calcium- rich foods

  • Calcium supplements

  • Antacids

  • Tea

  • Coffee

Red meat is one of the best sources of iron. Bread, beans, nuts and spinach also contain iron, but it is harder for your body to absorb.

Take a look at the health benefits of potassium here.

Image: bauersyndication.com.au

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