Oxford Iron Clinic
Oxford Iron Clinic
What is Iron deficiency?
Iron deficiency is a condition characterised by a lack of iron in the body, leading to a decrease in the production of red blood cells and a decrease in the amount of oxygen carried from the lungs to the body’s muscles and major organs.
Iron is an essential mineral required to produce haemoglobin, a key protein in red blood cells that carries oxygenated blood for the proper functioning of all bodily processes and systems.
Haemoglobin and oxygenated blood are crucial for:
1) Healthy functioning of the brain e.g. for focus and concentration
2) Cellular respiration in which cells use oxygen to convert nutrients to energy e.g., for work, exercise, and physical performance.
3) Effective functioning of the cardiovascular system.
4) Efficient delivery of nutrients and removal of waste products from the body.
5) Maintaining a strong immune system, aiding the prevention and rapid recovery from infections, illness, and surgery.
Iron supports the healthy and optimal functioning of cells, tissues, and organs in the body.
Treatment
For more information about available treatments for Iron Deficiency, click below.
What are the causes of iron deficiency?
The main causes of iron deficiency include:
- inadequate intake of absorbable iron (red meat, chicken, fish), which contain haem iron.
- increased iron requirements (such as during pregnancy or growth spurts in children), and;
- blood loss (from heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding, or surgery).
Vegetarians and vegans may also be at a higher risk of iron deficiency as plant-based sources of iron are less easily absorbed by the body compared to animal-based sources.
Green leafy vegetables are very healthy in that they contain vitamins and minerals sich as vitamin C and folic acid, however the iron they contain is non-haem iron and is poorly absorbed.
Athletes often need more iron than the general population, as iron is lost through increased sweating. In addition the mechanical force of foot strike, for example, during endurance training, can increase the destruction of red blood cells in the feet leading to a shortened life span of red cells.
Signs & Symptoms
Learn about the Signs & Symptoms of Iron Deficiency and Anaemia.
Services & Prices
Discover our full list of services and prices.
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