The Intricacies of Iron Deficiency with Lisa Costa Bir and Alison Mitchell
Jan 29, 2024
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Lisa Costa Bir, a naturopath and fx Medicine ambassador, joins health expert Alison Mitchell to discuss the intricacies of iron deficiency. They differentiate between iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia, explore iron absorption and the role of heme iron, and delve into the recycling of iron from red blood cells. They also discuss the impact of infections, inflammation, and gut dysfunction on iron levels, as well as subtle signs of deficiency and the connection between iron and mood swings. Additionally, they touch on timing for testing and supplementing iron, and offer insights on complementary approaches to balancing iron.
Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia are distinct conditions with different management approaches.
Understanding iron absorption mechanisms is crucial in addressing iron deficiency and selecting appropriate supplementation.
Deep dives
Iron deficiency is a complex issue
Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency that affects people worldwide. It is especially prevalent in developed countries like Australia. However, correcting iron deficiency is not as simple as it seems. Many practitioners have experienced giving iron supplements and dietary recommendations to their iron-deficient clients, only to see no improvement in their blood levels. This complexity arises from factors like low absorption of iron, comorbidities, and inflammatory conditions.
Differentiating iron deficiency and anemia
Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct conditions. Iron deficiency is characterized by low ferritin or low transferrin saturation without affecting red blood cell formation. On the other hand, iron deficiency anemia occurs when iron deficiency progresses to the point of impairing red blood cell development. It is important for healthcare practitioners to differentiate between these two conditions, as their management approaches may vary.
Understanding iron absorption
Iron is primarily absorbed in the small intestine. Heme iron, found in animal sources, is more readily absorbed than non-heme iron, found in plant-based sources. Factors like phytates, tannins, and dietary factors can impact the absorption of non-heme iron. Additionally, iron absorption is influenced by inflammation levels and the body's perception of iron stores. Understanding these absorption mechanisms is crucial in addressing iron deficiency.
Considerations for iron supplementation
When considering iron supplementation, it is important to be cautious about high-dose iron supplements. High doses of iron can lead to gut irritation, constipation, and potentially exacerbate inflammation. Lower-dose iron supplements like bisglycinate or amino acid chelate may be more suitable as they are effective in repleting iron with fewer side effects. Additionally, incorporating iron-rich herbs, prebiotics, and cofactors like copper, vitamin C, and vitamin A can enhance iron absorption and utilization.
Naturopath Alison Mitchell is joined by fx Medicine ambassador Lisa Costa- Bir who helps expand your knowledge on the essential mineral - iron. They distinguish between iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia, and why heme iron is absorbed more efficiently than non-heme iron.
The finer details of recycling of iron from red blood cells, conditions impacting iron status such as infections, inflammation, and gut dysfunction, the hormone hepcidin are all valuable in understanding the intricacies to iron.
Together the two naturopaths discuss subtle signs of deficiency, why iron is linked to mood swings, why timing matters when testing iron levels and supplementing and they share thoughts on complementary approaches to balancing iron involving specialised pro-resolving mediator, nutrient and herbal therapeutics.
Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.fxmedicine.com.au/podcast/intricacies-iron-deficiency-lisa-costa-bir-and-alison-mitchell
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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***
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