An iron deficiency can occur when the body’s iron stores are no longer sufficient to meet its physiological needs. In more advanced stages, this condition can progress to iron-deficiency anaemia.
Insufficient dietary iron intake
A diet that lacks variety or is very restrictive may not provide enough iron to meet the body's daily needs, especially when meals contain few iron-rich food sources.
An unbalanced vegetarian or vegan diet
In a vegetarian or vegan diet, iron intake relies primarily on plant-based (non-haem) iron, which is absorbed less efficiently. Without paying special attention to dietary diversity, intake may prove insufficient.
Significant blood loss
Certain situations, such as heavy periods, can lead to repeated iron loss and contribute to the gradual depletion of the body's reserves.
From Physiological Conditions to Increased Needs
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are periods during which iron needs naturally increase, which can lead to a deficiency if intake isn’t adequate.
Digestive disorders affecting iron absorption
Certain gastrointestinal disorders can limit iron absorption in the digestive tract, thereby reducing its availability to the body, even when dietary intake is sufficient (such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, or gastric ulcers, which can affect iron absorption during digestion).
Taking certain medications
Long-term use of certain medications can interfere with iron absorption or increase digestive losses, thereby contributing to a gradual depletion of iron stores (such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids, for example).
In the absence of specific symptoms, regular blood tests can help assess your iron status and, if necessary, allow for personalised advice and natural solutions in consultation with a healthcare professional.
