What is iron deficiency anemia?

Anemias can be caused by several different conditions but is defined as a decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs). Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is too little iron to make the hemoglobin in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein within the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. Iron deficiency anemia occurs most often with bleeding or with conditions that block the absorption of iron in the intestines.

What are some natural sources of iron?

• Cream of Wheat
• Liver
• Red meats
• Nuts
• Sunflower seeds
• Dried beans and peas
• Prunes
• Raisins
• Peaches
• Cooked spinach
• Turkey

What causes iron deficiency?

There are two common causes of iron deficiency including a decrease in absorption of iron from food and blood loss. After bariatric surgery, the body may not be able to absorb iron from food through the GI tract as it previously did. This can result in inadequate amounts of iron to be absorbed leading to iron deficiency. Other common causes of iron deficiency include heavy menstrual bleeding or known bleeding stomach ulcers.

What are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency?

• Weakness
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat with exercising
• Brittle nails
• Sore tongue
• Restless leg syndrome
• Pagophagia (an abnormal craving to eat ice)
• Pica (an abnormal craving to eat nonfood items, such as clay or dirt, paper products, or cornstarch)

How is iron deficiency diagnosed?

Iron deficiency anemia can be diagnosed through a blood test. This test is routinely performed after bariatric surgery at 6 months, one year, and yearly post operatively.

How is iron deficiency anemia treated?

The first step to treating iron deficiency anemia is to determine the cause of the deficiency. If you have undergone bariatric surgery, you are more likely to develop iron deficiency. If you have heavy menstrual periods, are pregnant, have dark tarry stools, vomit dark colored material, take NSAIDs, or have a family history of colon cancer you should speak with your provider. Although dietary iron is important, those with iron deficiency anemia need more iron than they can consume through diet alone. Treatment usually begins with oral iron tablets. There are several types of oral iron available over the counter. With the exception of enteric coated iron tables all are considered equally effective. Current evidence suggests that you can take iron every other day to allow the body to absorb more iron and reduce your risk of gastrointestinal side effects. We recommend that you take 45mg-60mg per day of iron post bariatric surgery.