7 Signs That You Urgently Need More Iron: How to Recognize Them

Iron is a vital element for our body’s health, but we can only obtain it through food. An iron deficiency can creep up unnoticed, masking itself as fatigue or mild symptoms.

Iron is a vital element for our body’s health, but we can only obtain it through food. An iron deficiency can creep up unnoticed, masking itself as fatigue or mild symptoms. If you notice these 7 signs, it might be time to reconsider your diet.

You Feel Constantly Tired

It’s normal to feel a little tired after a busy day. However, if fatigue follows you every day—even after rest—it could be a warning sign. Iron deficiency leads to lower hemoglobin levels, which means your body receives less oxygen. Dizziness, weakness, sluggishness, and trouble with everyday tasks can all be linked to a lack of iron.

You Have a Strong Urge to Chew Ice

The unusual habit of chewing ice, known as Pagophilia, is often linked to anemia. Scientists have not yet fully understood why this happens, but the urge to chew ice is one of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency. The issue is that this habit can damage your teeth, causing cavities or cracks. If you catch yourself doing this, it’s important to check your health.

Your Nails Are Becoming Brittle

Brittle, peeling nails are not just a cosmetic issue. They indicate that your body is not receiving enough oxygen because iron is responsible for oxygen transport. If your nails are growing slowly, have an uneven surface, or break easily, it may be time to rethink your diet. Of course, aggressive household chemicals or low-quality cosmetics can also damage nails, but anemia is one of the leading causes.

You Experience Shortness of Breath, Even with Minimal Activity

Shortness of breath is another sign of an iron deficiency. Cells suffering from a lack of oxygen cause the body to compensate with rapid breathing and an increased heart rate. If you experience shortness of breath even with slight physical activity, do not ignore this symptom—it may signal not just anemia but also serious heart conditions.

You Are Always Cold

If your hands and feet are always cold, even during warm seasons, it may be related to a low iron level. Iron helps red blood cells transport oxygen and heat to the extremities, and a lack of it can lead to feelings of coldness. However, stress or fatigue can also contribute to sensitivity to cold, so it’s important to monitor your body’s signals.

Your Lips Are Dry and Chapped

If your lips remain dry and cracked despite using moisturizing balms, this is a sign to pay attention to your diet. When you have an iron deficiency, your lips lose their natural color and can turn almost white. Cracks may even bleed. If this problem persists for more than a week, consult a doctor.

Restless Legs Syndrome

Do you constantly feel the need to move your legs, even when resting? This symptom can be related to anemia. Restless Legs Syndrome is characterized by itching, burning, tingling, and other unpleasant sensations in the legs. It can be linked not just to iron deficiency but also to other conditions such as varicose veins, Parkinson’s disease, or kidney problems.