Short answer: iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional gaps in women — largely because monthly periods lose iron and many diets don't replace enough. It's a leading, often-missed cause of fatigue, breathlessness and brain fog. The safe fix starts with a blood test, not guesswork, because too much iron is also harmful.
Why women are especially prone
Menstruation — particularly heavy periods — means a regular loss of iron. Pregnancy raises needs further, and plant-based or low-meat diets provide iron that's harder to absorb. Together that's why iron deficiency (and full iron-deficiency anaemia) is far more common in women than men.
Signs to watch for
Persistent tiredness, breathlessness on stairs, pale skin, brittle nails, hair shedding, poor concentration and unusual cravings (like for ice) can all point to low iron. These overlap with many conditions, which is exactly why testing matters rather than self-diagnosing.
How to address it safely
Ask your doctor for a ferritin (iron stores) test before supplementing — iron overload is genuinely harmful, so more is not better. Dietary iron from red meat, poultry, fish, beans, tofu and leafy greens helps, and pairing plant iron with vitamin C improves absorption. A nutrient-dense daily base like our Supergreens Antioxidant Juice can complement a varied diet, but it isn't an iron treatment — confirmed deficiency should be managed with your doctor.
FAQ
How do I know if I'm low on iron? A ferritin blood test is the reliable way; symptoms alone overlap with many issues.
Should I just take an iron supplement? Not without testing — unnecessary iron can be harmful. Confirm low levels first.
What helps absorption? Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C; tea and coffee with meals can reduce absorption.
General education only, not medical advice. Test before supplementing iron and follow your doctor's guidance.