What causes iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Insufficient dietary intake: Inadequate consumption of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals, can lead to iron deficiency.

2. Poor absorption: Certain factors can interfere with the absorption of iron from the diet, such as consuming foods high in phytates (found in whole grains, legumes, and nuts), tannins (found in tea and coffee), or calcium (found in dairy products and calcium supplements) at the same time as iron-rich foods.

3. Increased demand: Certain conditions and life stages can increase the body's demand for iron, making individuals more prone to deficiency. These include pregnancy, menstruation, rapid growth in children and adolescents, and certain medical conditions (e.g., cancer, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease).

4. Blood loss: Significant blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., due to ulcers or colon cancer), or blood donation, can lead to iron depletion and deficiency.

5. Malabsorption syndromes: Medical conditions that affect the absorption of nutrients from food, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and tropical sprue, can impair iron absorption and result in deficiency.

6. Genetic disorders: Some genetic conditions, such as hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder) and thalassemia (inherited blood disorder), can affect iron metabolism and lead to secondary iron deficiency.

It's important to note that iron deficiency can have a range of causes, and the specific cause may vary among individuals. If you suspect you may have iron deficiency, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.