Iron can be more complex than you think.

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Let's talk about iron.

It's a vital mineral that often takes centre stage during fertility journeys. But its story can be more complex than you think.

Don't supplement blindly!

Feeling tired or thinking iron is good for your fertility isn't a good reason to pop a supplement.

Often, it can do more harm than good.

Testing is key.

• You need a whole iron panel - not only ferritin! We need the whole story.
• Get CRP and haemoglobin tested at the same time to rule out
inflammation.
• Test fasted. Avoid your period. Stop iron supplements 24 hours
beforehand.

Is it iron deficiency or inflammation?

Some inflammatory conditions can mimic low iron levels. They block the release of circulating iron. Making it seem like iron is low.

High ferritin levels (iron stores) suggest factors beyond an iron overload or hemochromatosis.

And includes excessive alcohol consumption, chronic inflammation, liver disease or infection.

Skip Ferrograd C and Maltofer.

Research shows that more than 40mg of iron in one hit can have a negative impact on the gut microbiome. And create an inflammatory state.

High dose oral iron supplements such as "Ferrograd C" and "Maltofer" can create havoc in your body. And don't always increase your iron levels.

More does not equal better.

Iron infusions, while tempting, have the same effect. The massive hit of iron in an infusion can create oxidative stress and inflammation. It won't have lasting effects if the driver for deficiency isn't identified.

Maximising absorption.

Take a lower dose of iron on alternate days.

Research shows this method increases absorption by 34%!

Daily iron intake creates higher levels of hepcidin - a peptide hormone that stops iron absorption when levels are high.

Take your supplement 2hrs before or after caffeine and dairy. It is better to take in the morning or evening. Hepcidin naturally rises at lunchtime.

Take Vitamin C to improve absorption.

Avoid taking zinc within 2 hours of taking your iron. They compete for absorption in the gut!

Digging deeper.

For causes of iron deficiency think beyond diet.

Rule this out first:

• Poor dietary intake of iron.
• Pelvic ultrasound to rule out polyps and fibroids.
• Heavy periods. Is there a hormone imbalance? Such as high estrogen.
• Poor absorption through the gut. Do you have undiagnosed coeliac disease?

Remember,

Iron is crucial in your fertility journey. But, understanding its complexity empowers informed decisions.

Finding the right person to interpret your results is vital. Sourcing good quality oral iron supplements if needed is just as important.

Find the root cause of your iron deficiency to optimise your fertility potential.

Thanks for reading.

I'm always interested to know what you are struggling with on your journey. Want to know something specific? Hit reply and send in a request :)

Jaya x