Hi Friends!
Did you know that iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency globally, affecting one-third of the world’s population? Over a billion people worldwide suffer from anemia caused by iron deficiency.
This inspired me to create an informative video dedicated to this important topic!
Here’s what you’ll discover:
Symptoms and Overlooked Signs: Why is iron deficiency often missed? I’ll explain the common symptoms and signs on physical exam.
Diagnostic Tools: Learn about the essential lab tests that can help diagnose iron deficiency and the optimal range for ferritin. Discover scenarios where ferritin might not be a reliable marker for iron levels.
Body Mechanics: How do our organs interact to regulate iron absorption and red blood cell production? What impact does inflammation, often seen in obesity, have on iron absorption?
Common Causes: I delve into the most frequent causes of iron deficiency, such as poor dietary intake, inadequate absorption, blood loss, and increased bodily demands.
Dietary Insights: What foods are iron-rich? What’s the difference between heme iron and nonheme iron? Which form has the best bioavailability?
Iron Facilitators and Inhibitors: Learn about the dietary elements that can aid or hinder iron absorption.
Role of the Gut Microbiome: Learn about how conditions related to your gut can impact iron absorption. Did you know a specific probiotic strain could enhance iron uptake significantly, as shown in recent studies?
Iron Supplementation Options: Learn why Ferrous Bisglycinate is considered superior, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects and more effectiveness in raising ferritin and hemoglobin levels. What antioxidant should take with your iron supplements to enhance absorption?
Medication Interactions: Understand the interactions between thyroid medication, iron, and calcium, and learn how to optimally space out these medications to maintain effectiveness.
Watch the video now to learn more ways to enhance iron absorption and optimize your energy levels!
Sautéed Chard:
Dark leafy green vegetables like chard are a good source of nonheme iron!
Ingredients:
2 bunches of organic red chard, washed, and chopped
1/2 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tsp organic ghee
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
In a large pan on low-medium heat, heat the olive oil and add in the onions and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped chard, salt, pepper, and chicken or vegetable broth. Cover and lower the heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes. Finish off the dish by stirring in 1 tsp of organic ghee.
Be sure to pair this dish with something rich in vitamin C, like water with a squeeze of lemon juice to help enhance iron absorption!
Enjoy!
Thanks for reading this week’s newsletter! Please share it with a friend or family member struggling with fatigue, who may need help with their iron levels!
Warm regards,
Rajsree Nambudripad, MD
Dr. Rajsree is a caring and compassionate physician, who is board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Integrative/Holistic medicine. She is passionate about helping patients optimize their health through a preventative approach involving healthy lifestyle, dietary changes, targeted nutritional supplementation, and optimizing hormones. Her practice is unique in the personalized attention she devotes to each and every patient.