What is iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency in your reports

Doctors usually start with a full blood count, which includes haemoglobin, and may add ferritin to see your stored iron.

Reference ranges vary by lab, so compare your result with the range printed on your own report.

Why iron deficiency matters

Low iron can make you feel tired all the time, breathless, with a pounding heartbeat, pale skin and headaches. Some people notice:

• hair loss
• a sore tongue
• nail changes
• restless legs
• cravings for things that aren't food

NHS lists heavy periods and pregnancy as very common causes, which is why so many women are affected.

Bleeding in the stomach or gut can also cause it, so it's worth getting checked rather than guessing.

What helps with iron deficiency

Build your plate around iron-rich foods:

• green leafy vegetables like palak, methi and bathua
• pulses like rajma, chana and masoor
• dried fruit
• meat, fish or eggs if you eat them

Pair them with vitamin C foods such as amla, guava or lemon. These can make iron harder to absorb:

• tea and coffee
• milk
• very bran-heavy meals

So keep your chai away from main meals. If your doctor prescribes iron, follow their advice on how to take it.