Iron plays a vital role in carrying oxygen through your blood, but after 50, women are more likely to experience low iron levels. This can leave you feeling tired, weak, and even impact your overall health.
Here are 6 signs that could mean you’re low on iron — and what to do about it.
🩸 1. Unexplained Fatigue
Constant tiredness, even after a good night’s sleep, is one of the most common signs of iron deficiency.
🥶 2. Feeling Cold More Often
If you’re reaching for a sweater when others aren’t, it could be due to reduced oxygen delivery from low iron.
💨 3. Shortness of Breath
Struggling to catch your breath during everyday activities might be a warning sign your blood isn’t carrying enough oxygen.
💅 4. Brittle Nails or Hair Loss
Weakened nails, hair thinning, or increased shedding can all point to low iron levels.
❤️ 5. Pale Skin or Pale Inner Eyelids
A lack of healthy red blood cells can cause your skin and inner eyelids to lose their normal color.
💓 6. Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations
Your heart may beat faster to compensate for the reduced oxygen in your bloodstream.
✅ What To Do
If you’re noticing these signs, speak to your doctor and consider adding iron-rich foods to your diet like spinach, lean meats, and legumes.