Summary
- Low iron reduces energy levels - chronic fatigue is a classic symptom of iron deficiency.
- Iron deficiency reduces oxygen levels in cells, which hinders metabolism.
- Iron deficiency deprives the body of a catalyst that is used in many physiological processes.
- Iron Lift provides highly absorbed iron and other nutrients for boosting energy.
Does low iron reduce energy levels?
Reduced energy levels (chronic fatigue syndrome) are a classic symptom of low iron. If you stay tired after endless coffee and regular naps, low iron may be to blame. Keep reading to learn more about why this symptom occurs and how you can fix it.
"If you stay tired after endless coffee and regular naps, low iron may be to blame."
How does the body make energy?
To understand why iron deficiency reduces energy levels, it's important to understand how the body makes energy. Nutrients in food are converted to energy through a chemical process called the citric acid cycle, which requires oxygen. Iron is responsible for delivering the oxygen to cells that produce energy.
Why is oxygen related to energy levels?
Oxygen is needed as a chemical catalyst to help convert ADP (the used-up form of energy) into ATP (the useful form of energy). Without sufficient availability of oxygen, the aerobic energy generation process slows or stops. In cases of iron deficiency, energy generation may be hindered due to a lack of oxygen.
"In cases of iron deficiency, energy generation may be hindered due to a lack of oxygen."
Does anemia affect energy levels?
Anemia is diagnosed based on levels of hemoglobin, which is a protein in the blood. Iron is a component of hemoglobin. In anemia, hemoglobin is low, which contributes to why cells cannot get enough oxygen. Anemia and iron levels can also affect blood parameters like hematocrit, red blood cell count, and red blood cell volume, all of which also may prevent cells from getting enough oxygen.
Does iron stimulate energy production?
In addition to delivering oxygen, iron is a key component of enzymes and proteins involved in energy production. In particular, iron is a part of "iron-sulfur" proteins that are involved in energy production. Moreover, iron acts as a cofactor that is used by many enzymes to catalyze reactions in the body.
Iron reduces energy levels in multiple ways
In conclusion, iron deficiency limits how much oxygen can get to cells, and oxygen is required for generating energy. On top of that, iron is directly involved in many energy-generation processes, meaning that iron deficiency can reduce the body's ability to generate energy even when there is enough oxygen.
"non-anemic women experienced less fatigue after iron supplementation"
Can iron supplements boost energy levels?
Studies consistently show that iron supplementation boosts energy levels and fitness performance. In one study, non-anemic women had their fatigue levels reduced by iron supplementation. In another study, women taking iron supplements were observed to achieve increased exercise intensity.
"women taking iron supplements were observed to achieve increased exercise intensity"
Which iron supplement is best for energy?
The optimal iron supplement depends on iron status, sensitivity to side effects, and personal preference. Iron pills are cheap and often effective. However, they come with a high risk for side effects and may not be well absorbed. Liquid iron may be preferred for those avoiding pills, but it similar same risks of side effects and poor absorption.
"Iron Lift combines iron with many other energy-boosting ingredients, including protein, vitamins, amino acids, and MCT oil"
Iron Lift is a unique high iron powder that is designed to be highly absorbed and easily tolerated. Moreover, Iron Lift combines iron with many other energy-boosting ingredients, including protein, vitamins, amino acids, and MCT oil.
Sources
- Iron (Oregon State University)
- Iron (National Institutes of Health)
- Hemoglobin and Functions of Iron (UCSF Health)
- Daily iron supplementation for improving anaemia, iron status and health in menstruating women (Cochrane Reviews)
