Addressing Iron Deficiency in Women

Iron deficiency in women is common due to increased iron needs from menstruation,

pregnancy, and diet gaps. A major contributing factor is heavy menstrual bleeding,

which can lead to significant monthly iron loss. Reducing iron deficiency involves increasing

intake of iron-rich foods (such as red meat, poultry, fish,

beans, lentils, spinach, and iron-fortified grains),

improving absorption by pairing iron with vitamin C, and avoiding absorption blockers like tea

and coffee around meals. Women with heavy periods may benefit from medical evaluation

to address underlying causes and to manage blood loss. When diet changes are not enough,