Can Low Iron Levels Cause Weight Gain?

Iron plays a huge role in our body’s chemistry. Commonly, we hear how iron affects energy levels, but can low iron levels cause weight gain, too?

While low iron levels do not directly affect your weight, the symptoms that arise from low levels can contribute and may be worth looking into.

The Role of Iron

From transporting oxygen, regulating our energy levels, and balancing hormones, it is crucial to understand iron’s function in your body. First, iron is a mineral necessary for your body’s development. Its primary function is to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen from your lungs to all body parts. Additionally, iron produces myoglobin- a protein that provides oxygen to your muscles. However, iron does more than make these proteins. It also affects your immune system and how your body creates and spreads immune cells. You may not realize it, but your thyroid and iron have a considerable relationship, which will be discussed below.

Common Signs of Low Iron

About 10 million Americans suffer from iron deficiency. To be certain your levels are low, a blood test is always recommended, but many common symptoms can be detected at home. Here are the most common signs:

• Fatigue
• Pale Skin
• Hair Damage or Brittle Nails
• Shortness of Breath
• Rapid Heartbeat
• Restless Leg Syndrome
• Cold Hands and Feet
• Concentration Issues

Signs of Low Iron Linked to Weight Gain

Again, having low iron levels does not always ensure weight gain. However, the symptoms of low iron may contribute. Here are three symptoms that may link to weight gain and why:

Fatigue

Iron deficiency results in fatigue and decreased energy levels, typically the number one indicator of low levels. When energy levels are weakened, individuals who experience this are less likely to indulge in physical activity. With reduced physical activity, you are more likely to gain weight.

Metabolism Changes

Iron is necessary for enzymes to function properly in metabolic processes. When levels are low, your metabolism can not effectively burn calories, slowing down the process and resulting in weight gain.

Thyroid Function Changes

Iron significantly affects thyroid hormone production. Thyroid hormones are crucial in regulating metabolism. Low levels can affect both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. When your thyroid cannot properly regulate, insufficient thyroid hormone is released into the bloodstream, slowing your metabolism.

Can Increasing Iron Intake Help Lose Weight?

Increasing your iron intake could contribute to weight loss for various reasons. Fueling your body with more iron, whether through food or supplements, leads to a healthier lifestyle. If you indulge in more iron-rich foods, you are likely eating more nutrients. Similarly, increased iron intake leads to increased energy levels, making you more likely to partake in physical activity. As mentioned above, when iron levels are low, your metabolism and thyroid functions are underactive. When this occurs, your calories do not regularly burn. When you start incorporating these iron-rich foods or supplements into your diet, your metabolism and thyroid can begin functioning properly, once again burning calories. Oxygen will also return to flowing throughout your body’s cells, helping burn fat.

Iron & Weight Management Strategies in Indianapolis, IN

First, visit your doctor for a blood test to determine if you have iron deficiency. Your doctor may recommend taking iron-rich foods, supplements, or other treatments. If you would like to see a doctor about weight gain relating to iron, make sure you know where your iron levels are if you think this is a possibility. It is important to remember that everyone’s body is different. A wide range of factors contribute to weight gain, so regulating iron levels may not work for everyone.

If you are struggling with one or more symptoms of low iron or want to better manage your weight, consult Supro Direct. Our team will work with you to discuss your symptoms and create a plan suited to your needs. Contact us today to get started or schedule an appointment.