Hey there! Let’s chat about something super important for our health as women—iron and iron supplements for women. I know it might not sound like the most exciting topic, but trust me, it’s one of those things that can make a huge difference in how you feel every day.
I’m writing this post because of my own experience and I wish that it could be life-changingly beneficial to some of you out there, as well!
Why Iron Matters
Did you know that throughout our lives, we menstruate around 500 times? Yep, that’s a lot, and during that time, we lose about 30 liters of blood from our first period until menopause. With all that blood loss, it’s no surprise that we’re at a much higher risk of iron deficiency than men—about ten times higher, in fact!
Iron is crucial because it helps our bodies produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to all our tissues. When you don’t have enough iron, your body struggles to make enough healthy red blood cells, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia. And let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with the fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath that come with it.
How Iron Can Improve Your Well-being
The good news is that keeping your iron levels in check can do wonders for your well-being. When you have enough iron, you’ll likely notice that you have more energy and can push through workouts more effectively. Iron supplementation has been shown to improve both maximal and submaximal exercise performance, which means you’ll feel stronger during those tough workouts or even just during your daily activities.
But it’s not just about physical performance—having enough iron can also help reduce fatigue and make you feel more like yourself. If you’ve been feeling tired all the time, weak, or just not quite right, low iron might be the reason.
As I said in the beginning, my interest in this topic comes from my own experience. I was lucky enough to get a strong intuitive feeling that I needed to add an iron supplement to my diet. And since I’ve been using it for months now (lately just for a few weeks a month before and during the menstruation phase), I can tell you, that I haven’t had such a healthy and regular cycle for years! It feels like such a blessing and has greatly deepened my connection to my body and my overall well-being.
How Much Iron Do You Need?
So, how much iron is enough? For women of childbearing age, about 15 mg of iron daily is recommended. If your iron levels are good and your periods are light, you might not need extra supplements. But if you experience heavy menstrual bleeding or have low ferritin levels (the protein that stores iron), a boost in iron intake could be beneficial.
Just a heads up, though—taking iron only during the menstruation phase of your cycle might not be enough if your levels are low. It’s often better to take supplements regularly over time, and always check in with your healthcare provider to monitor your levels and make sure you’re getting what you need.
A Friendly Reminder
Before you run out and grab some iron supplements, remember that everyone’s body is different. What works for one person might not be right for another. It’s always a good idea to do your own research and, most importantly, talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. They can help you figure out exactly what you need based on your unique health situation.
Taking care of your iron levels might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how you feel. So, let’s make sure we’re giving our bodies the care and attention they deserve—because we’re worth it!
Take care of yourself, and here’s to feeling strong and energized every day!
Love and Blessings!
