Ayurveda To Treat Iron Deficiency!

Iron deficiency symptoms show up gradually and chronically. Iron is essential for maintaining good energy levels and when there are reduced iron levels, the person will have pale skin, pale eyes, fatigue, insomnia, muscle cramps, and increased heart rate. Women need to be very careful about reduced iron levels, especially during pregnancy and menstruation. Iron deficiency during pregnancy can cause plications including birth abnormalities, premature birth, etc., and should be managed.

Ayurveda believes in having a wholesome diet with fresh fruits and dairy to meet the various requirements. However, there are some effective supplements available to improve iron levels when required, especially in women who have heavy menstruation and during pregnancy. Wheatgrass powder, Chandra Prabha Vati are used widely to improve iron levels. A well-balanced diet with more of iron-containing substances is very useful to maintain optimal iron levels.

Iron deficiency is not always related to reduced intake. There could be an increased breakdown of iron, which also can cause iron deficiency. Iron is constantly used by the body for the formation of blood cells, and so in addition to reduced intake, accelerated breakdown also causes iron deficiency. Anemia is the most common manifestation of iron deficiency, with reduced RBC count being the most common finding. Anemia is very common in menstruating women and pregnant women, and they need to ensure iron supplementation is taken to maintain optimal levels.

A well-planned diet, vegetarian or otherwise, can provide sufficient quantities of iron for normal functioning. Meat, eggs, liver, fish are good non-veg sources, while legumes, sprouts, green vegetables, and tofu are good vegetarian sources of iron. Whole grains and dairy products also contain adequate amounts of iron. Do not take iron supplements just because you are feeling weak. Increased iron levels also can cause problems.