Cause 6: Infections and Inflammation
Infections and inflammation can negatively impact the body’s ability to utilize iron. When the body is under stress due to infection or inflammation, it produces a protein called hepcidin. This protein regulates iron absorption by blocking the release of iron from storage sites and inhibiting intestinal iron uptake.
While this response is a natural defense mechanism, prolonged infections or chronic inflammation can result in persistently high hepcidin levels, leading to iron deficiency. Conditions that contribute to chronic inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of iron deficiency. It’s essential to manage these conditions and work with a healthcare provider to monitor iron levels and ensure proper treatment.
In addition to the conditions mentioned earlier, infections and inflammation can be caused by various other factors such as obesity, poor diet, and environmental toxins. It’s essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, to reduce the risk of chronic inflammation and its impact on iron levels.
One of the ways to manage chronic inflammation is through an anti-inflammatory diet, which includes consuming whole, unprocessed foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods can help to decrease inflammation and support overall health, which may subsequently improve iron levels in the body.
In some cases, inflammation may be a result of undiagnosed food sensitivities or allergies. Identifying and eliminating the offending foods can help to reduce inflammation and improve the body’s ability to absorb and utilize iron. Working with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can be beneficial in identifying and managing food sensitivities.
Lastly, addressing any underlying infections that may be contributing to inflammation is crucial for preventing iron deficiency. Proper diagnosis and treatment of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can help to alleviate inflammation and ensure that the body can effectively utilize iron. (6)
