Pumping iron?

Hospitalisations due to low iron levels have increased 10-fold since the 1990s, but how do you know if you're low?

- Jo Dunbar

A report early in January revealed last year there were almost 200,000 people admitted to hospital in England because of low iron levels.

That's a rise of 11% on the previous year, up almost 10 times on figures 25 years ago when only 20,000 were admitted.

Previously, it was thought around 8% of British women and 3% of men have low iron levels, but the problem is clearly on the rise, with the NHS labelling it a significant health issue. Iron gives us strength and energy for day-to-day life.

Dr Ferras Alwan a consultant haematolo- gist at the Harley Street Clinic, part of HCA Healthcare, explains: "Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin which is the component of red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

"Without adequate iron, your body struggles to produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue, compromised immune function and even heart complica- tions and hospitalisation."

Low iron is more common in women than men. Senior consultant gynaecologist Dr Nitu Bajekal says, "Medically, heavy periods can cause anaemia, making you feel tired and low in energy. If blood loss is more than 80ml, then this is called menorrhagia.

"Heavy bleeding can be more common in perimenopause as well as in conditions such as endometriosis."

But if your iron levels drop, it isn't always immediately obvious - and many of us could be lacking the essential mineral without even realising it. So what are the signs that you should be looking for?

Hair breakage and brittle nails

If you have bendy, brittle or breaking nails, don't blame gel manicures. Similarly, don't assume the dark circles under your eyes are just late nights, or curse your shampoo if your hair is losing shine or condition.

Skin, nail and hair cells can't regenerate if your body's iron stocks are severely depleted.