Understanding Iron Deficiency: 7 Crucial Root Causes
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide. It can affect anyone—children, teens, women, men, and the elderly. If you’ve ever felt unusually tired, weak, or dizzy, low iron levels might be part of the reason. But why does this happen? To better prevent and manage iron deficiency, it’s important to understand what causes it.
Root Causes of Low Iron
- Not Getting Enough Iron From Food
Plant-based diets can increase the risk of low iron intake, since non-heme iron is less easily absorbed than animal-based heme iron. Even omnivores may face low iron levels due to other underlying factors.
For a deeper dive into correcting iron deficiency using nutrition and targeted supplementation, watch my Low Iron Playlist.
- Inflammation in the Body
Chronic inflammation raises hepcidin levels through the impact of inflammation on the liver. An increase in hepcidin traps iron inside cells and making it harder to use for red blood cell production.
3. Blood Loss
Heavy menstrual periods, fibroids or digestive tract issues like ulcers can lead to iron deficiency. Women of childbearing age are especially vulnerable. - Parasites
Infections like hookworm can cause blood loss or interfere with absorption. Though less common in North America, they remain a global concern. - Poor Absorption
Conditions like celiac disease or leaky gut damage the gut lining, reducing nutrient absorption. Low stomach acid also plays a role here.Stomach acid is essential for breaking down iron into a form your body can absorb. Low stomach acid—whether from aging, stress, or infections—can impair absorption and lead to deficiency. Supporting healthy stomach acid levels through diet, stress management, and mindful eating can make a big difference.
- High Iron Needs
Growth, pregnancy, and breastfeeding increase iron requirements. Without enough intake, deficiency can develop. - Gut Microbiome Dysfunction
Your gut bacteria compete with you for iron. Imbalances in the microbiome can reduce absorption and contribute to inflammation. Your gut bacteria also influence iron absorption. Some bacteria consume iron themselves, and excess iron supplements can feed harmful strains. A balanced microbiome supports better digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune health.
Practical Takeaway
Iron deficiency isn’t just about diet—it’s a complex interplay of inflammation, absorption, stomach acid, stress, and gut health. Addressing these root causes holistically can help restore energy, balance, and resilience.
Probiotics for Gut Recovery After Antibiotics
After my knee surgery, I was given antibiotics—a standard step in most procedures. My first recovery supplement? Probiotics.
💊 Antibiotics save lives but disrupt the gut microbiome, wiping out good and bad bacteria. This imbalance can cause bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and even food sensitivities, brain fog, or weight gain.
✨ The fix:
Take probiotics during and for at least three months after antibiotics to restore gut balance. Even if you had antibiotics months ago, a probiotic regimen can help rebuild resilience.
✅ Backed by research, probiotics are a simple way to protect digestion and overall health.
You can find great quality probiotic supplements in my easy-to-access Fullscript protocol. You can access it right here for Canadians
References
Barha, C. K., et al. (2017). Sex differences in exercise efficacy to improve cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in older humans. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 46, 71–85. PMID: 27989771
Brown, B. M., et al. (2022). Exercise and diet in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease: The EXERT trial. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 18(1), 700–709. PMID: 34811847
Colcombe, S., et al. (2006). Aerobic exercise training increases brain volume in aging humans. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 61(11), 1166–1170. PMID: 17167157
Erickson, K. I., et al. (2011). Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 108(7), 3017–3022. PMID: 21282661
Liu-Ambrose, T., et al. (2010). Resistance training and executive functions: A 12-month randomized controlled trial. Archives of Internal Medicine, 170(2), 170–178. PMID: 20101006
Northey, J. M., et al. (2018). Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults older than 50: A systematic review with meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(3), 154–160. PMID: 28438774
Voss, M. W., et al. (2011). Plasticity of brain networks in a randomized intervention trial of exercise training in older adults. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2, 32. PMID: 21441993
Are you getting the full benefit of a Fullscript account?
If you haven’t already done so, set up your own Fullscript account so you can see my recommended core supplements, Protocols, and other favorites. And if you decide to purchase supplements which I’ve researched and recommend through Fullscript, I receive a small commission — and YOU receive a 10% discount! It’s a win/win.
Canadian residents
USA residents
>>> If you’re having trouble finding my list of Favorite Supplements, I hope this video helps you. <<<
If you’re still unable to see my recommended core supplements in your account, select the ‘Catalog’ tab, then click on ‘Dr. Patricia Mills’ Fullscript Account Favourites’ and then select ‘Foundational Supplements’.
