How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Strategies

Iron is responsible for various metabolic processes taking place in the body of a living being. So, it is said to be an essential element. It is the major constituent of hemoglobin, and this hemoglobin moves oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body.

The low iron level will decrease the hemoglobin level, and this will cause the body to get tired soon, and symptoms can appear such as an increase in heartbeat, pale skin, fatigue, etc.

In this blog, we will discuss how to increase iron levels quickly in different ways, the causes of iron levels in the body, and the symptoms of iron deficiency.

Why is Iron Important in the Diet:

Just like iron is vital for the production of steel, it is necessary for human beings also. Nearly 70 % of the iron present in the body is found in hemoglobin. This mineral is mandatory in the making of hemoglobin.

1) The health benefits of iron are-

Production of hemoglobin
Helps to lower fatigue
Boosts immune system
Helps in getting sound sleep

2) Foods Rich in Iron

a) For Vegetarians

Nuts like cashews etc.
Fruits such as apricots, apples, and citrus fruits.
Legumes such as beans, and dried peas.
Green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, etc.

b) For Non-Vegetarians

Meats such as duck, and chicken.
Fish like tuna, herring, and mackerel.
Chicken Eggs.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency:

In the initial stage, iron deficiency symptoms may not be noticeable, but as the health condition worsens and the iron level in the body decreases, the symptoms start to appear such as:

1) Increased fatigue

2) Skin turning white (pale skin)

3) Body weakness

4) Rapid heartbeat

5) Dyspnea (shortness of breath)

6) Cold hands and feet, especially when it’s quite cold outside or traveling in extreme weather conditions like snow capped mountains, can cause anemia.

7) Burned tongue due to taking foods or drinks that are too hot.

8) People suffering from pica condition (a condition where patients have unusual liking for non-healthy foods, for example, chewing ice etc.) are more prone to iron deficiency.

Iron-Deficiency and Treatment Methods:

Depending on the iron level in patients, the methods for effective treatment are as follows

1) If your body is showing symptoms of iron depletion, i.e., total exhaustion of iron in the body, then consult your doctor, who will suggest you foods rich in iron content. You may have to take a blood test and again come back for another blood test later to see if the iron level has increased.

2) If iron deficient symptoms are visible, i.e. the hemoglobin level in the body has dropped below normal, then your doctor will monitor your diet. The doctor will recommend you to have foods rich in iron content and suggest avoiding drinks such as tea, coffee etc. that can restrict your iron absorption in the meals. The doctor will periodically check your iron content and may suggest supplements.

3) If you are suffering from iron deficiency anemia, then a healthcare expert may tell you to take health supplements. You may have to take the health supplements up to one year for the body to regain the original iron level. You may also have to take a blood test whenever required.

How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Methods

Taking an IV iron infusion by inserting a needle in the veins of the hand is the fastest way to increase iron levels in the body.

As iron is required to produce hemoglobin in red blood cells, which help them to transport oxygen to different organs and tissues in the body, so shortage of iron hampers the process and low oxygen supply can make you feel tired when doing physical work.

In addition, by taking the below-mentioned beverages and foods on a regular basis, can help boost the iron level in the body.

1) Liquids Rich in Iron

a) Apple juice

b) Beet juice

c) Grape juice

d) Tomato juice

e) Kiwi juice

f) Strawberry juice

2) Foods Rich in Iron

a) Spinach

b) Apricot

c) Whole white bread

d) Oat cereal

e) Beans

f) Soy-based foods, such as tofu and so on.

3) Other Ways to Increase Iron Level

Although the foods and beverages listed above are good sources to increase iron content, but many times a doctor or health care expert can suggest one to take supplements like iron pills or other iron supplements. The benefit by taking an edible iron supplement is that it increases the levels of iron and hemoglobin in the body at a fast rate.

Oral iron supplements have good iron content in them. Taking 17 mg or less of iron supplements daily is unlikely to cause any harm to the body.

Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach, if possible, or as suggested by the doctor.

Conclusion:

According to a 2018 research, it was found that iron content in vegetarians was less when compared to non-vegetarians.

To conclude, iron is useful in making hemoglobin, and it is vital to consume enough amounts of iron in our diet to maintain a healthy body. The foods we eat not only influence the level of iron intake, but also how well iron is absorbed in the body.