Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health Iron and the Stroke Crisis: A Hidden Catalyst for Brain Damage - AI Podcast
Apr 28, 2025
Discover how excess iron can be detrimental to brain health, especially during ischemic strokes. Iron overload acts like 'gasoline on a fire,' accelerating cell death and worsening damage. Learn about the serum ferritin test to monitor iron levels and the importance of keeping them below 100 ng/mL. Regular blood donations can help manage these levels and reduce stroke risk. Explore innovative research aimed at targeting iron-related damage to enhance stroke treatments and protective strategies for your brain.
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Iron's Role in Stroke Damage
- Ischemic strokes kill brain cells through three distinct mechanisms, with iron overload being a critical factor.
- Excess iron during strokes acts like "gasoline on a fire," worsening damage significantly.
Monitor Iron With Serum Ferritin
- Regularly test serum ferritin to monitor iron stores and keep levels below 100 ng/mL.
- Aim for 20 to 40 ng/mL to protect brain health and stroke outcomes.
Manage Iron by Donating Blood
- Donate blood two to four times a year to safely reduce excess iron and lower stroke risk.
- Blood donation removes iron by taking out red blood cells, effectively managing iron overload.