Iron Deficiency – Not Just a Vegetarian Concern

What is the importance of iron ?

Iron is the primary ingredient of haemoglobin, which acts as the carrier of oxygen in the blood. As such it of great importance in the support of all metabolic functions as well as in proper liver function. It plays a significant role in the strengthening of the immune system.

What causes iron deficiency ?

While iron deficiency is often considered to be a problem affecting vegetarians, anaemia is just as likely to be found amongst meat eaters.

A variety of factors can be involved, including:

• Low stomach acid
• Low digestive enzymes
• Sluggish digestion and/or sluggish liver

Any combination of the above will inevitably lead to an increased toxic load. In Ayurvedic terms the low ‘Agni’ (digestive fire) results in excess ‘Ama’ (toxic waste). This causes blockage and stagnation of the organs and lowers immunity.

What are the symptoms ?

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Shortage of breath
• Lethargy
• Dizziness
• Pale skin
• Chest pains
• Brittle nails
• Cracks in the corners of the mouth
• Unusual cravings

How does Ayurveda approach the problem ?

Ayurveda recognizes the need to initially:

• Treat the digestion
• Treat the liver
• Optimize the levels of stomach acid and digestive enzymes

Successful treatment involves careful attention to diet as the quality of blood will thereby be improved, preventing deficiencies.

Specific herbs are used to optimize the digestive ‘fire’.

When these priorities have been addressed, iron can be introduced, as can vitamin B12 as iron deficiency leads eventually to B12 deficiency.

At Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre a comprehensive initial consultation ensures you receive a customised treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and support your return to good health. Please call our centre on 1300 552 260 for further information, to discuss your health concerns or to make an appointment.