What is iron deficiency anemia (IDA)?

A common condition in women

Iron deficiency occurs in people the world over, and is the number one cause of anemia.¹ It comes on when the body is called upon to use more iron than it has in storage. When this happens, the blood lacks an adequate supply of healthy red blood cells. It's these cells that need iron to make a substance called hemoglobin, which enables the cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. It's not unusual for women in their child-bearing years to develop IDA, since more iron than usual is required during menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.²

Treatment

In addition to eating a diet rich in iron, people with iron deficiency often take an oral iron formulation under the direction of their physician. A variety of oral iron formulations are available. Don't assume they are all the same! The method of absorption and the other ingredients in the formulation can make a big difference in how comfortable you are likely to be while taking them.

Prevention

The body has built-in mechanisms through which it tries to maintain enough iron to meet its demands. It all starts with the food we eat. Other than oral iron preparations, the most effective way to bolster iron stores is to maintain a diet rich in iron. This, of course, can be easier said than done, especially by vegetarians. But planning ahead can help keep the diet in balance.