An iron deficiency is caused by a lack of health red blood cells within your body. Having low iron can cause iron based anemia, which can result in your feeling dizzy, light headed and tired often throughout the day.
Now being a woman, we loose quite a lot of those healthy red blood cells once a month. We all know why.
But can your period contribute to low iron and anemia?
In short yes, it can.
If you have a heavy blood flow during your menstrual cycle, you have a greater risk of developing iron-deficiency or anemia. Why? Because a heavy flow can cause excessive blood loss, which in turn, reduces your body’s iron.
What is an indicator if your period is too heavy?
A heavy flow can cause you to soak a pad or tampon every hour for several hours. You may also experience menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than a week. This bleeding may be accompanied by severe cramps and/or large blood clots that are passed through the menstrual blood. This mass loss of blood and red blood cells can be the cause of iron deficiency, so if you are finding you are overly lethargic, tired or foggy during the day it is worth talking to your doctor about being tested for anemia.
Some quick fixes and changes in your diet that can assist with building up your iron level include:
- Meat
- Seafood
- Beans, legumes, nuts and seeds
- Dark molasses and green leafy vegetables
- Cereals, grains and breads that are fortified with iron
As always it is best to consult with your medical professional to seed advice if you feel as if you may have low iron.