Iron: for anemia, fatigue and women
2026-06-27 · 5 min read
Iron carries oxygen in the blood, so a shortfall quickly hits energy and wellbeing. Deficiency is especially common in women, vegetarians and people with active training.
Why you need it
Iron is part of hemoglobin and delivers oxygen to muscles and the brain. With a deficiency you get fatigue, weakness, paleness and reduced endurance.
Who is at risk
Deficiency is most common in women (due to menstruation), in vegetarians and vegans, and in those who train a lot. In these cases it is worth checking ferritin with a test.
How to take it
Iron absorbs better with vitamin C and worse with coffee, tea and calcium. Iron bisglycinate is gentler on the stomach than sulfate. Without a confirmed deficiency, iron is best not taken.
FAQ
Can I take iron without testing?
Better not. Excess iron is harmful, so it is best taken when deficiency is confirmed (by ferritin and hemoglobin).
Why does iron cause stomach heaviness?
That is a common side effect of iron sulfate. Gentle forms (bisglycinate), taking it with food and a gradual dose increase all help.
Related sections
This article is for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Supplements are not medicines.