Iron Deficiency
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Iron deficiency is when your body does not have enough iron. Iron is a mineral that helps make red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of your body. Without enough iron, your body cannot make enough healthy red blood cells, and you may feel tired and weak.
Key facts
- Iron deficiency is the most common type of anaemia (a condition where you don't have enough healthy red blood cells).
- Iron is essential for growth, development, and energy levels.
- Women, young children, and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk.
Yes, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional problems worldwide. It affects people of all ages, but it is especially common in women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and young children.
Iron deficiency can affect anyone, but it is more common in people who lose blood (such as women with heavy periods), people with a diet low in iron (like vegetarians or vegans), people with gut conditions that affect absorption (like coeliac disease), and infants and young children during rapid growth.