Iron
Carries oxygen in the blood. Deficiency is common with heavy periods, pregnancy, plant-based diets, celiac disease, and endurance training.
Commonly used for
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Low ferritin
- Fatigue and hair shedding from low iron
- Pregnancy (as directed)
Found naturally in
- Red meat
- Shellfish
- Lentils and beans
- Spinach (pair plant iron with vitamin C)
Label red flags
- Iron in a product you're taking 'just in case' without lab work
- The label shows compound weight rather than elemental iron
Check with a provider
- Take only if testing (ferritin, CBC, iron panel) shows you need it. Excess iron is harmful.
- Hemochromatosis or a family history of iron overload
- Taking levothyroxine, certain antibiotics, or antacids. Separate doses.
- Keep out of reach of children. Iron overdose is dangerous.
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Blood & immune system
Blood carries oxygen and nutrients, and white blood cells defend you from infection. In autoimmune disease, that defense system targets your own tissues.
Hair
Hair is often one of the first places to show what's happening inside the body. Changes in shedding or thickness can point to nutrient, thyroid, hormone, or autoimmune causes.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.