Iron Deficiency Anemia

Why do I need iron in my diet?

Iron is needed by your body in order to make hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying red-colored protein in blood cells ("hem" means iron). Myoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in muscle cells. Iron is also needed to help certain chemical processes in the body.

If you are over the age of 50, you need about 10 mg of iron each day to stay healthy. If your body does not get enough iron, you can develop iron deficiency anemia. This can happen if you have a digestive disorder that prevents iron from being absorbed or have a hidden source of bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract. It can also happen if there is simply not enough iron in your diet. A shortage of iron can occur if you do not eat properly.

What foods contain iron?

Meat, fish, and poultry are excellent sources of dietary iron. It is also present in liver, eggs, green leaf vegetables, nuts, peas, beans, and whole-grain bread. A well-balanced diet contains enough iron for your daily needs.

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?

The symptoms are:

• tiredness and lack of energy
• headaches
• sore mouth or tongue
• brittle nails
• shortness of breath
• pale skin, gums, and nailbeds
• pain in the chest.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider will probably suspect iron deficiency anemia from your medical history and symptoms. A blood test will confirm the diagnosis. If blood loss is a possibility, your health care provider may check your stools for blood or get special x-rays of your bowel.

How is it treated?

Iron supplements can be prescribed that will build up your body stores of iron. However, you will need to change your eating habits to be sure of a well-balanced diet in the future. Your health care provider may refer you to a nutritionist for dietary advice. If you have a bleeding problem, you will need special treatment. If you live alone, you might be advised to eat with a group of other people sometimes, or have prepared meals brought to you.

How can I take care of myself?

• Follow your health care provider's or nutritionist's advice for treating iron deficiency anemia.
• Eat a well-balanced, varied diet. Eat regularly at least 3 times each day.
• Take advantage of meals that are served at your senior center or meal services to your home, if they are available.
• Share meals with friends (go out for meals or take turns preparing food) to increase variety.
• If shopping for food or transportation to a store is a problem, call a friend, relative, or your senior center for help.