Certain gastrointestinal conditions can hinder iron absorption, even with a nutrient-rich diet.

Iron is vital for energy production, muscle function, immunity, and brain health. Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, poor concentration, or shortness of breath during exertion. According to Only My Health, even if one consumes iron-rich foods, the body may still lack this mineral if the digestive tract has issues. Conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or damage to the intestinal lining reduce the amount of iron transferred from food into the bloodstream. Individuals who have undergone stomach or intestinal surgery may also face similar absorption problems. Additionally, some damage in the stomach or intestines can cause small, prolonged bleeding, often unnoticed in stool, allowing individuals to maintain normal daily activities and eating habits.

The body's iron requirements significantly increase during pregnancy.

Iron needs vary by age and gender; adult males require about 8 mg daily, while females aged 19-50 need approximately 18 mg due to menstrual iron loss. Pregnant women require even more, around 27 mg daily, to support increased blood volume and fetal development. A diet that was previously adequate may no longer meet these new physiological demands during pregnancy. This type of iron deficiency stems from the body's elevated needs, rather than a mother's unscientific eating habits.

Lean meat is rich in iron, a nutrient good for health. Photo: Bui Thuy

For women of reproductive age, heavy menstrual bleeding is a common cause of iron deficiency.

According to Times of India, each menstrual period causes the body to lose a certain amount of iron with blood. If blood loss is significant or periods are prolonged, iron reserves can gradually deplete month after month. This can occur even if a woman maintains a healthy diet.

Certain long-term medications can also interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron.

Some medications, when used over an extended period, can reduce the amount of iron the body absorbs from food. These include drugs that decrease stomach acid, commonly prescribed for reflux, stomach ulcers, or other digestive issues. Stomach acid plays a crucial role in converting dietary iron into a form the body can readily utilize. Prolonged reduction in acid levels impairs this process, leading to a decrease in the amount of iron entering the bloodstream.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)