We all feel tired now and then, but if you’re feeling exhausted all the time then you could be dealing with a bigger health issue than a simple good night’s sleep could fix.
Studies have found that the diet of over 70 per cent of Australian women aged 25 to 55 years old are deficient in iron, with low iron levels considered the single most common cause of fatigue in women.
So if you’re feeling under the weather, read on to find out the best way to boost not only your iron levels, but also your energy.
Causes of low iron levels
Australian women require up to 18mg of iron in their diet per day, but most women consume less than 10mg. Although, it’s not only our diets that can contribute to low iron levels – other factors include overconsumption of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, stress, regular exercise, menstruation, pregnancy, breast feeding, and a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
Symptoms of low iron levels
Feeling fatigued isn’t the only sign that you’re body might be lacking iron. Other symptoms include poor performance at work, low immunity, headaches, loss of appetite, feeling weak, dark circles under eyes, hair loss, and brittle and thin nails. If you think you might be iron deficient, it’s important to visit your doctor for a professional diagnosis.
Boost your iron levels with iron-rich food
To prevent iron deficiency and boost your iron levels, fill your diet with foods bursting with body-loving iron including red meat, beans, lentils, chickpeas, dark leafy greens, egg yolks, turkey, and dried fruit.
Pop iron supplements daily
Taken daily, iron supplements are an effective way of restoring energy and boosting depleted iron levels. Available in tablet and liquid form, take your iron supplement with a glass of orange juice as it contains vitamin C, which is great for ensuring maximum absorbtion.
Supplements to try:
Swisse Ultiboost Liquid Iron, $19.95, 200mL, www.swisse.com/au
Blackmores Bio Iron, $18.99, 80 tablets, www.blackmores.com.au
FAB IRON + Vitamin B Complex, $12.95, 30 tablets, www.fabiron.com.au
Do you feel fatigued all the time? Have you ever suffered from low iron levels?
best to see a gp about this one