What function does iron play?
According to our Naturopath, Mel, iron is an essential mineral for healthy blood production and makes up a large portion of haemoglobin, the cells in the blood that carry oxygen from your lungs to your tissues. Testing iron levels and stores is an important first step for anyone suffering from ongoing fatigue, tiredness, breathlessness and excessive bleeding. Testing Iron often includes measurements of your blood iron levels and your storage levels and these offer insights as to what may be involved on a deeper level. You can check inside your lower eye lid if you don't see a rich redness in the capillaries and it seems more pale, you may want to get your levels tested.
How to increase iron intake
Iron can be found in foods such as red meat, fresh green vegetables, dried fruit, grains, nuts, seeds, lentils and beans should be consumed regularly. There are also many great iron supplements that can be taken in conjunction with a balanced iron rich diet. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet and are not for the treatment of diagnosed iron deficiency conditions. There is also a possibility of iron overdose if excessive amounts of iron supplements are consumed, so if you are unsure of whether iron supplements are right for you, consult your healthcare professional for advice.
Iron rich pre-made food
KOJA Almond & Berry Breakfast Topper
The KOJA Almond & Berry Breakfast Topper is a delicious addition to my morning yogurt or muesli! This nutritious blend contains a mix of iron rich nuts, seeds and fruit including figs which are a delicious source of fibre.
WelleCo The Super Elixir
An ideal addition to your daily green smoothie, the WelleCo Super Elixir Alkalising Greens powder contains leafy green spinach, alfalfa, broccoli, horsetail, spinach and wheat grass, as well as other vitamins and minerals. Providing a nutritional supplement derived from wholefoods, this multivitamin powder delivers the nutrients your body needs to maintain general health and wellbeing.
Iron supplements
Spatone Liquid Iron Supplement
The Spatone Liquid Iron Supplement is 100% natural sourced from Iron-rich mineral water and can be taken daily. It has been clinically tested and shown to achieve up to 40% absorption. This supplement may also aid in the maintenance of healthy Iron levels during pregnancy and has been clinically tested and shown to not cause constipation and is gentle on the stomach.
Use only as directed. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Always read the label, consult your healthcare professional if symptoms persist Drink plenty of water when taking in additional iron.
Floradix Floravital Herbal Liquid Iron Extract
Floradix Floravital Herbal Liquid Iron Extract may help maintain vitality, energy, stamina, fitness and general health and may be also be helpful for athletes to replenish iron stores in blood and muscle. This iron supplement also contains B-vitamins and herbal extracts to help fortify the body.
Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Not for the treatment of iron deficiency conditions.
Ethical Nutrients Megazorb Mega Iron
The Ethical Nutrients Megazorb Mega Iron tablets with B Vitamins can help support healthy iron levels and reduce fatigue. This MEGA IRON is a high strength, easily absorbed Iron supplement that combines Iron diglycinate (a form of iron that is gentle on the digestive system) with vitamin B6 and B12 to help maintain energy levels. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Not for the treatment of iron deficiency conditions. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Drink plenty of water when taking this supplement.