Medically Inspected by: Caridad Pacheco-Purugganan,MD
More often than not, when individuals are diagnosed with anxiety, fatigue, depression, or a combination of the three, non-experts will claim that it’s due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, these mental health issues aren’t that simple.
That’s why professionals do their best effort to dig deep and find out what may be the real cause behind these issues. And one of the most overlooked causes of fatigue, anxiety, and depression is low iron levels. Think that’s what’s been affecting your life? Continue reading below to find out how iron and mental health are linked.
What is iron?
Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs for many functions, but it is most commonly known to be a component of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs throughout the entire body. When someone is iron deficient, the red blood cells become smaller resulting in lesser oxygen distribution and circulation to the body tissues. Alongside the negative mental health effects, its common symptoms are hair loss, frequent headaches, unusually pale skin, and shortness of breath.
So how can iron deficiency affect my mental health?
Iron is needed for the production of dopamine in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that keeps us happy. The body uses tyrosine from protein-rich foods to produce dopamine. However, it cannot do so unless the body has sufficient amounts of iron.The lack of dopamine can not only lead to depression and anxiety, but also movement disorders like restless leg syndrome.
How do I know if it’s iron deficiency that’s behind my psychiatric issues?
Aside from being cautious of the mentioned physical effects, testing for iron deficiency is definitely recommended. This can provide the data needed to understand what’s really going on in one’s head. With this information, professionals and health coaches can aptly prescribe a program to optimize one’s iron intake, while also working out mental health matters.
In addition to seeking help from professionals, try the following tips to help look after one’s mental health:
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Pause and give yourself some “me time”
A slow change of pace is always good. You’d be surprised at how much breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation can help relax your mind, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
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Get plenty of sunlight
Sunlight is the ideal source of Vitamin D, which helps the brain release chemicals that improve moods like endorphins and serotonin. Try to get regular sun exposure for 15 minutes while you can while also adhering to the COVID-19 safety protocols. PS, don’t forget to wear sunscreen!
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Intake Iron Supplements
Iron's effect in our brain helps us not just achieve better blood health but helps produce dopamine. Iron + B-Complex + Folic Acid (Hemarate FA) is a nutritional supplement that contains iron, Vitamins B6 and B12 - nutrients that are necessary for healthy blood, synthesis of hemoglobin. This is especially helpful for individuals who cannot reach optimal iron levels through diet alone. Take orally, one tablet daily or, as directed by a doctor, together with proper diet and exercise.
ASC Ref No. U053P031721HS, U123P071421HS
SOURCES:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3680022
https://www.parsleyhealth.com/blog/8-causes-behind-fatigue-anxiety-depression
