Iron Deficiency In Women: Severe Consequences And Treatment Regimen

Iron deficiency is considered a disease called anemia. It is manifested by palpitations, frequent headaches, deformation of the nails and pale skin. This is enough to understand - it's time to take action.

But taking only iron supplements will not be enough. It is important to take tests and see what trace elements are missing in addition to iron, because everything in the body is interconnected. Nutrition also plays an important role in this regard, so special products will have to be introduced into the menu.

The role of iron in the body

Macronutrients are elements that are found in the human body in relatively large quantities. These include sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, chlorine, sulfur.

Iron is the second most common metal on Earth, after aluminum. It has a variable valence (Cu, Cr, Mn) and belongs to the essential (irreplaceable) trace elements.

The main functions of iron:

• It is indispensable in the processes of hematopoiesis and intracellular metabolism.

• It is part of the hemoglobin in the blood, which is responsible for the transport of oxygen and the implementation of oxidative reactions.

• Included in the composition of cytochromes and enzymes involved in redox reactions.

• It plays an important role in the processes of energy release.

• In providing immune functions.

• in cholesterol metabolism.

The exchange of iron is a closed cycle. Iron enters the body from the outside, from dietary products. Normally, the intake is quite low, 8-10 mg per day, and this is normal. Iron (about 1-2 mg) is absorbed in the duodenum. Further, in connection with transport proteins, it enters the bloodstream, and then is distributed to:

• Hemoglobin. This is the so-called circulating pool.

• Bone marrow.

• Immune system.

• macrophages.

• A large supply of iron in the liver (1 g) due to the connection with ferritin (a protein that is soluble in water and stores iron) and hemosiderin (an insoluble form of depot iron).

• Muscles in relation to myoglobin.

There is such a vicious cycle. Iron loss per day is normally 1-2 mg. It comes out with hair, epithelial scales, with skin cells. Thus, during normal functioning of the body, the amount of intake of a macronutrient is equal to the amount of excretion. When this balance is disturbed, problems arise.

9 signs of iron deficiency in the body

1. development of iron deficiency anemia.

2. Headaches and dizziness, weakness, fatigue, intolerance to cold, decreased memory and concentration.

3. Slowdown of mental and physical development in children, inappropriate behavior.

4. Rapid heart rate with little exertion.

5. Cracking of the mucous membranes in the corners of the mouth, redness and smoothness of the surface of the tongue, atrophy of the taste buds.

6. Fragility, thinning, deformation of nails.

7. Perversion of taste (craving to eat non-food substances), especially in young children, difficulty swallowing, constipation.

8. Inhibition of cellular and humoral immunity.

9. Increase in general morbidity (colds and infectious diseases in children, pustular skin lesions, enteropathy).

The main causes of iron deficiency in women, men and children

• Insufficient intake (inadequate nutrition, malnutrition).

• Increased consumption of iron (during periods of intensive growth and development, during pregnancy and lactation).

• Iron loss associated with trauma, blood loss during surgery, heavy menstruation, peptic ulcers, donation, sports.

• Absorption disorders in the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis with reduced acid-forming function, dysbacteriosis, decreased absorption of iron in the intestine).

• Worm infestations.

• Various systemic and neoplastic diseases.

• Dysregulation of vitamin C metabolism.

• Hormonal disorders (thyroid dysfunction).

• Excessive intake of phosphates, oxalates, calcium, zinc, vitamin E.

• Lead poisoning, antacids.

Consequences of iron deficiency

• Young children: Psychomotor retardation, increased susceptibility to infections, cognitive impairment, poor school performance, behavioral problems later in life, impact on future height and body proportions.

• Pregnant women: IUGR, placental disease, preterm birth, increased risk of maternal and infant mortality, iron deficiency in the child.

• Adolescents: decreased memory and attention, learning ability, decreased physical activity, increased conflict.

• Elderly: aggravation of the course of all chronic diseases.

2 types of iron deficiency in the body

• Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a polyetiological disease, the occurrence of which is associated with iron deficiency in the body due to a violation of its intake, absorption or increased losses, characterized by microcytosis and hypochromic anemia.

• Latent iron deficiency (LFD) is an acquired condition in which there is a latent (hidden) iron deficiency, a decrease in iron stores in the body and its insufficient content in tissues (sideropenia, hyposiderosis), but there is no anemia yet.

Diagnostic methods

Just "serum iron" is often not enough, as it is affected by the time of day (high concentrations are usually in the morning, and low in the evening) and lack of sleep.

Hb concentration for diagnosing anemia depending on age and gender

Protocol for the treatment of anemia in women

• decreased intake (lack of diet);

• pay attention to the gastrointestinal tract (poorly absorbed);

• problems in gynecology in women;

• increased consumption (bleeding, pregnancy, growth, training, tumors).

• Proper, nutritious nutrition with foods rich in iron and enhancing its absorption.

• Correction of deficiency of B12, iron, folates, vitamins, reduction of blood loss.

• Replenishment of protein deficiency in the diet The optimal level of protein is 75 g/l.

• Selection of iron preparations.

• Normalization of the intestinal condition (candida, parasitosis, problems with the gastrointestinal tract).

• Annual monitoring of the parameters of a clinical blood test.

• A complete diet with adequate iron content.

• Timely elimination of sources of blood loss in the body.

• Persons at risk may be shown prophylactic intake of iron-containing drugs.

Medicines for treatment

I generation - Ferrous sulfate.

• It irritates the mucosa, causes desquamation and necrosis of the cells of the intestinal epithelium, can disrupt the functioning of the liver (hepatotoxic), which is manifested by nausea, vomiting, constipation, and there is also evidence of its teratogenic effects.

• Not recommended during pregnancy and in children, banned in Finland, France, Sweden and Switzerland.

II generation - iron preparations in the form of organic salt.

• Toxic to the gastrointestinal tract (stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea).

• It is possible to overdose and, as a result, get intoxication and poisoning due to passive, uncontrolled absorption.

• They have a pronounced metallic taste and stain the enamel of the teeth and gums.

• Due to discomfort, frequent refusals of patients from treatment.

• Inability to complete treatment.

III generation chelate forms in the form of:

Iron bisglycinate (iron in connection with the amino acid glycine, is highly bioavailable and well tolerated).

Liposomal forms (Iron (III) pyrophosphate - iron phosphate is placed in a liposome, such iron is non-toxic, does not cause allergic reactions.

Preparations: Sideral forte.

Organic forms of trace elements combined with synergistic components.

1. Intramuscular. Based on dextran: iron dextran.

2. Intravenous. Based on sucrose: iron polymaltose hydroxide, iron saccharate, iron carboxymaltose.

Salt:

• IDA: 3 mg per kg of body weight.

• LJ: 1.5 mg per kg of body weight.

Iron 3 GPA:

• IDA: 5 mg per kg of body weight.

• LJ 2.5 mg per kg of body weight.

Iron AMK:

• There are no official recommendations.

Sufficient duration of treatment with iron preparations:

• Anemia I degree of severity (Hb 120–90 g/l): 3 months.

• Anemia of the II degree of severity (Hb 90–70 g/l): 4.5 months.

• Anemia III severity (Hb 70 g/l): 6 months.

The cure for IDA is to overcome tissue iron deficiency (normalization of ferritin).

Monitoring the effectiveness of iron therapy:

• Reticulocyte reaction at 7-10 days from the start of treatment with iron preparations.

• Increased hemoglobin at the end of 4 weeks. treatment (by 10 g/l) and hematocrit by 3%.

• Disappearance of clinical manifestations of the disease after 1-3 months. treatment.

• Overcoming tissue sideropenia after 3-6 months. from the start of treatment (depending on the severity of anemia). Controlled by serum ferritin.

Reasons for failure of IDA treatment:

• The diagnosis of IDA was not correctly established.

• The dose of the iron preparation is not adequate.

• Impaired duration of treatment for IDA.

• The course of treatment for IDA is not performed by the patient.

• The patient has problems with drug absorption.

• The patient does not tolerate the prescribed iron preparation.

Treatment of anemia may be ineffective due to the presence of roundworms in the intestine: ascaris and toxocara. Parasites take blood from the human body. Because of this, the effect of therapy is reduced. Not only roundworms can harm. For example, the Candida fungus feeds on minerals, in particular iron and its absorption cofactors. Because of this, useful elements do not enter the human body. That is why before starting treatment for anemia, you need to check for the presence of parasitic infestation and fungal infections. If the result is positive, then you first need to eliminate the parasites, and therefore already begin to treat anemia.

7 foods rich in iron

1. oysters

   Six oysters provide 6 mg of iron, 60 mg of calcium, 9 g of protein and only 70 calories. Also, these shellfish are rich in zinc. However, despite their obvious usefulness, oysters are the strongest allergen, so it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities.

2. white beans

   It's about chali beans. 100 g of this product contains the daily norm of dietary fiber, 6 mg of iron and 1100 mg of potassium, the lack of which causes rapid fatigue. Chali beans are also rich in protein, calcium, B vitamins and antioxidants. White legumes not only contain many useful substances, but also taste good. They are somewhat similar to potatoes. During the preservation process, the rich thick flavor of chali beans is lost, so it is recommended to buy dry beans. Before cooking, they need to be soaked overnight, and then boiled for about an hour. Boiled beans will be a good side dish for meat, or you can make soup from it.

    

3. Beef liver

   This product is extremely useful and nutritious. 100 g of liver contains approximately 7 mg of iron, vitamins A, D, B and only 170 calories. Before cooking, many housewives soak beef liver in milk for several hours. This makes it tender and soft, and also muffles the specific smell.

4. Lentils

   Another useful plant from the legume family. 100 g of lentils contains almost 12 mg of iron. Also in the beans of this plant there is magnesium, which is so necessary for the heart and nervous system. In addition to all of the above, lentils are rich in such amino acids, which in the body turn into serotonin, or the "hormone of happiness." It also has a lot of fiber: 12 mg per 100 g of beans.

5. Tomato juice

   Tomato juice does not contain much iron: only 1 mg per 200 ml. But it is saturated with chromium, molybdenum and cobalt, which are necessary for the full functioning of the body. Also, a glass of this drink contains 50% of the daily norm of organic acids.

6. Spinach

   Spinach is one of the leaders in iron content - 13.5 mg per 100 greens. An added bonus is that it is low in calories. There are only 23 kcal in 100 g of the product. Spinach is also rich in beta-carotene (4.5 mg per 100 g), which strengthens vision and immunity, and calcium (106 mg per 100 g), which is necessary for healthy teeth, bones and muscle systems.

7. Potato

   In Russia, potatoes are a fairly popular product. But few people know that it is also useful. One potato contains 3 mg of iron, vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium and easily digestible minerals.

Menu for iron deficiency in women

The main enemy of iron is calcium, which prevents its proper absorption. That's why it's so important to separate iron-rich foods and dairy products by eating them at different meals.

A similar effect is caused by oxalic acid and tannins. Iron is very poorly absorbed in combination with tea and coffee. It is better to start these drinks half an hour after a meat dinner.

Day 1

• Breakfast: 2 soft-boiled eggs or scrambled eggs, fresh cabbage salad, a slice of whole grain bread with liver pate, 1 orange, rosehip broth.

• Lunch: turkey breast with boiled cauliflower, buckwheat porridge with ghee.

• Dinner: mackerel baked in foil, pea puree, fermented cabbage.

• Snack: blueberries, pistachios, 70-80% chocolate - 10 gr.

Day 2

• Breakfast: oatmeal porridge with vegetable protein and dried apricots, hummus bread, chamomile tea.

• Lunch: liver stew with onions, brown rice, kelp.

• Dinner: stewed rabbit meat, green salad, celery, olives, sunflower seeds.

• Snack: walnuts, orange.

Day 3

• Breakfast: homemade veal boiled pork with a slice of c / s bread and lettuce, fruit salad.

• Lunch: Lentil cream soup, quinoa and fermented cucumbers.

• Dinner: vegetable stew and baked chicken breast.

• Snack: almond flakes, almonds.

Nutrition for iron deficiency in terms of Ayurveda and TCM

Rajaka promotes the transformation of Rasa into Rakta.

Rajaka is responsible for heme metabolism and iron metabolism, contributes to maintaining the hemoglobin level necessary for Prana Vata and Vyana Vata (the principle of movement, provides circulation) to transport oxygen to tissues, and provide tissues with energy.

Rajaka Pitta is localized in the liver and spleen. Violations in the liver and spleen trigger problems with this subdosha.

Iron-rich foods recommended by TCM:

• Products with black pigment: black rice, black sesame, eggplant, seaweed, black mu-er mushrooms, cuttlefish, squid.

• Products with red pigment: red beans, red beans, red unabi, pomegranate, carrots, tomatoes, dereza berries.

Phytopreparations:

• Astragalus woolly-flowered.

• Zaytsegub intoxicating.

• Leuzea safflower.

• Marena dyeing.

• Passiflora incarnate.

• The cyanosis is blue.

• Dried marsh dryer.

• Thyme Creeping.

• Series.

• Turmeric is long.

• Perga.

Angelica Chinese (Dang Gui) from TCM:

• Returns energy and blood.

• Sweet, spicy, warm.

• Replenishes blood, moves blood, moisturizes the intestines, stops bleeding.

• Stimulates hematopoiesis, regulates the absorption of trace elements by stimulating the synthesis of carrier proteins.

VPK \u003d 1 tbsp. Grind the roots, 250 ml of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Take 2 times a day before meals.

Scheme of taking Ayurveda funds:

• Chyawanprash 1-2 tsp before meals.

• Aloe juice 30 drops 2-3 times before meals.

• Amalaki.

• With asthenia, additionally - Ashwagandha.

• For gynecological problems - Shatavari.

Recipes:

• Grate carrots, beets and radishes separately. Squeeze the juice from each vegetable and drain into a dark bottle (the juice of each vegetable should be in equal amounts). Coat the bottle with unleavened dough (a small hole should remain in the neck to evaporate the liquid). Put in the oven for 4 hours (the oven should be slightly preheated). Take such a healing drink 1 tablespoon 3 times a day before meals for a course of 3 months.

• For this recipe, you need to collect bitter wormwood in May, fill it loosely in a 3-liter jar, then pour 2 glasses of vodka and insist for three weeks in a warm place. Take tincture in the morning before breakfast for 3 weeks, 1 drop diluted in 1 teaspoon of boiled water. The course - until the condition improves.

• Mix 1 tablespoon of nettle leaves, yarrow flowers, common dandelion root, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 3 hours, strain. Drink 1/4 cup 20 minutes before meals for 2 months.

• A good prevention of IDA is the Immunobooster drink: turmeric + lemon (vitamin C) + ginger (acidification) + manuka honey (to soften the taste). If you bring this drink to the ideal, then it will be turmeric + beetroot juice (betaine) + fir extract or sea buckthorn extract.

Anemia is considered an incurable disease. For its prevention, all factors that stimulate the development of the disease should be excluded. It is also necessary to strictly follow the doctor's instructions. This will reduce the risk of complications. With the help of proper nutrition, medicines and vitamins, you can increase the level of iron in the body, thereby restoring oxidative reactions and tissue oxygenation.