Iron is a crucial mineral your body needs to produce hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout the body. When your iron levels are low, your body can struggle to function properly, leading to a range of noticeable symptoms. While fatigue is the most commonly known sign....READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE |
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there are several other lesser-known but important warning signs that may indicate your body is running low on iron. Recognizing these signs early can help you take action before the deficiency becomes more serious.
Dr. Jeanine Bowring highlighted some of the most common warning signs that may signal low iron levels in the body. According to her, symptoms like cracked lips, brittle nails, and frequent headaches are some of the key indicators to keep an eye on.
1. Broken hair/hair loss
Broken hair, hair loss, or shedding can be a noticeable sign of low iron levels because iron plays a key role in producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that helps deliver oxygen to your body’s tissues—including your hair follicles.
When your iron levels are low, your body may prioritize vital functions over things like hair growth. This lack of oxygen and nutrients to the scalp can weaken hair strands, causing them to break more easily or fall out. Over time, this may lead to noticeable thinning, increased shedding, or slower hair regrowth.
2. Cracked lips
Cracked lips—especially at the corners of the mouth—can be a sign of low iron levels because iron deficiency affects the health and integrity of your skin and mucous membranes. “If you experience irritation or cracking at the corners of your mouth, it could be a sign of low iron,” she explains.
3. GI symptoms such as heartburn
When your body lacks iron, it can affect the functioning of the digestive system, including slowing down the movement of food through the GI tract. This can lead to bloating, indigestion, and acid reflux (heartburn). Additionally, chronic low iron can be caused by or contribute to stomach inflammation (gastritis), which can also trigger heartburn-like symptoms.
4. Brittle nails
Brittle or spoon-shaped nails (a condition known as koilonychia) can also be a warning sign of low iron levels. Iron is vital for healthy cell growth, including the cells that support nail strength and structure. When iron is deficient, nails may become thin, weak, or develop unusual shapes like upward curves. You might notice that your nails chip or break easily or that they’ve become more flat or concave over time.
5. Pale skin
Bowring says if you have “very pale, ghost-like, dry skin or feel cold all the time,” it could be because your iron is low. When you’re low in iron, your body can’t make enough healthy red blood cells, leading to less oxygen-rich blood circulating. This lack of oxygenated blood can cause your skin to appear lighter or more washed out than usual, especially in areas like your face, the inside of your lower eyelids, nails, or gums. This paleness may develop gradually and can be subtle, but if you notice your complexion looking unusually dull or your under-eyes and lips appearing less pink or red, it could be a sign that your iron stores are low.
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