Iron Deficiency – Functions, Symptoms, & Causes Explained By Dr. Berg

In this video, we’re going to talk about iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency in the world.

Iron is involved in:
• Oxygen transport through the blood
• Energy production
• DNA synthesis
• Hemoglobin
• Myoglobin
• Neuroglobin
• T-lymphocyte

Symptoms of low iron include:
• Fatigue
• Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing
• Low endurance
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
• Poor concentration or ADD
• Poor memory

The average person needs about 8mg of iron each day. Post-menopausal women need 18mg per day, and pregnant women need 27mg per day.

Animal sources of iron are far more absorbable than plant sources. It is much easier to get iron from meat, chicken, and fish.

To absorb iron, you also need:
• Vitamin A
• Copper
• Zinc

Avoid iron supplements made from ferrous oxide. Instead, get your iron from natural food sources.

Avoid taking calcium supplements with your iron supplements because it can block the absorption of iron. Instead, take calcium a couple of hours after you take iron.

Low iron can cause poor conversion of T4 to T3 (thyroid hormones).

The most common causes of iron deficiency include:
• Celiac disease
• IBS
• Low stomach acidity
• Gastric bypass
• Inflammation
• Phytic acid (legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds)
• Soy
• Vegan diets


Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio:
Dr. Berg, age 57, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.