it's rarely just low iron

Struggling to elevate your iron levels despite supplementing with things like Ferrograd C or Maltofer? You're not alone. There is complexities behind low iron struggles, pitfalls of high-dose supplements, impacts of gut inflammation, and connections between various health conditions and iron regulation.

Navigate the Supplement Dilemma: While supplements like Ferrograd C or Maltofer may seem like the solution and are the most commonly prescribed in the medical space, their high iron doses can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. The body can only absorb limited iron at once, leaving the excess iron and it's carrier nutrient lingering in the gut ultimately contributing to gut inflammation and associated digestive complaints. Our most preferred form in clinic is Iron-Bisglycinate - shown to be absorbed better than sulfate and polymaltose.

Unravel Gut Inflammation's Role: Gut inflammation could be a silent culprit hindering your iron absorption. The result is lowered capacity to digest iron rich foods and liberate iron. What also contributes is inflamed small intestinal membranes, preventing the absorption of iron from supplements or your diet.

Link Conditions to Iron Deficiency: Various health conditions, from heavy menstrual bleeding to inflammatory diseases like endometriosis, IBD, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, can contribute to iron dysregulation.

Iron regulation and dosing: dosing it the right way can make a significant difference in raising ferritin levels. Studies have shown that alternate day dosing (every second day) improves iron repletion due to navigating around the inhibitory action of hepcidin (an iron regulating hormone from the liver).

Optimize Dietary Iron Absorption: Diet plays a crucial role in iron intake. Maximise iron absorption by pairing it with the right nutrients like vitamin C and stimulating digestive acid before eating. Consider how calcium, and legumes can inhibit iron absorption.

In conclusion, overcoming the struggle to boost iron levels requires a holistic approach. From understanding the limitations of supplements to addressing underlying health conditions and optimizing dietary choices, there's a personalized solution for everyone. Reach out to us for further guidance, book an appointment, and let's ensure you're on the right path to elevating your iron levels and improving overall well-being.