Iron deficiency anemia - when the body lacks iron 3/3

Hi everyone!

 

I hope you're well.

Today we're talking:

 

### Newsletter: Iron deficiency, Hepcidin and B vitamins

 

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders. Understanding its underlying mechanisms, including the roles of **hepcidin** and **B-vitamins**, can help with prevention and treatment. In addition to its role in the production of red blood cells, iron supports many essential functions in the body. Let's take a closer look!

 

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**What is iron used for in the body?

Iron is not only essential for the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, it also plays a crucial role in several other bodily processes:

 

Hi everyone!

 

I hope you're well.

Today we're talking:

 

 

### Newsletter: Iron deficiency, Hepcidin and B vitamins

 

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders. Understanding its underlying mechanisms, including the roles of **hepcidin** and **B-vitamins**, can help with prevention and treatment. In addition to its role in the production of red blood cells, iron supports many essential functions in the body. Let's take a closer look!

 

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**What is iron used for in the body?

Iron is not only essential for the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, it also plays a crucial role in several other bodily processes:

 

1. ** Energy production (ATP)**

Iron is a key component of the electron transport chain in **mitochondria**, helping to generate ATP, the body's main source of energy. A lack of iron leads to a drop in energy, causing fatigue and lethargy.

 

2. ** Brain function and cognitive health

Iron is essential for the **distribution of oxygen in the brain** and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, particularly **dopamine**. Iron deficiency can affect memory, concentration and learning ability.

 

3. ** Immune function

Iron is essential for the proper functioning of the **immune system**. It supports the development of immune cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages, which fight infection. Iron deficiency can weaken the immune response and increase vulnerability to infection.

 

4. ** DNA synthesis

Iron acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in **DNA synthesis** and repair. This is crucial for cell division and tissue regeneration, which is why iron is particularly important during pregnancy and growth.

 

5. **Antioxidant defense and detoxification**️

Iron is involved in the activity of **cytochrome P450 enzymes**, which help detoxify harmful substances in the liver. It also protects cells from oxidative damage through enzymes such as **catalase** and **peroxidase**.

 

6. **️ Thyroid hormone metabolism**.

Iron is essential for the production of **thyroid hormones**, in particular the enzyme **thyroid peroxidase (TPO)**, which converts iodine into thyroid hormones. Iron deficiency can disrupt this process, leading to **hypothyroidism**.

 

7. ** Conversion of T4 to T3 (active thyroid hormone)**.

Iron is required for the **conversion of thyroxine (T4)** into the more active form, **triiodothyronine (T3)**. Iron deficiency can disrupt this conversion, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain and increased sensitivity to cold.

 

8. ** Muscular health

Iron is a component of **myoglobin**, a protein that helps muscles store and use oxygen. It also plays a role in muscle function and endurance, hence the muscle weakness associated with iron deficiency.

 

9. ** Collagen synthesis

Iron is involved in the formation of collagen, essential for healthy skin, hair and nails**. Collagen also supports the strength of bones, tendons and ligaments.

 

10. ** Hormone synthesis

Iron is crucial for the synthesis of several hormones beyond the thyroid, including **steroid hormones** such as estrogen and testosterone, highlighting its importance in endocrine health.

 

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**1. Hepcidin: the iron-regulating hormone**.

**What is it?

Hepcidin is a hormone produced by the liver that controls iron absorption and distribution. It regulates the amount of iron absorbed from the diet and released from storage sites.

**In case of iron deficiency** :

- Hepcidin levels are **low** to allow greater absorption of iron and release of reserves.

**In case of inflammation** :

- Hepcidin increases during inflammatory states, reducing iron availability, which can aggravate anemia (anemia of chronic diseases).

 

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**2. Iron absorption and the role of B vitamins**.

**What is the role of B vitamins?

Vitamins B12 and B9 (folates) play vital roles in the production of red blood cells. A deficiency of these vitamins can lead to **megaloblastic anemia**, complicating the diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia.

⚠️ **Combined deficiency** : Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can mask iron-deficiency anemia, resulting in red blood cells that are larger than normal but insufficient in number to transport oxygen properly.

 

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**3. Identify and treat iron deficiency**.

**Key values to watch out for** :

- Hepcidin**: Important for diagnosing complex cases of iron deficiency.

- Ferritin**: Reflects iron reserves. Low ferritin indicates iron deficiency.

- Vitamin B12 and folate**: Optimal levels are necessary to avoid anemia and its complications.

 

**Treatment tips** :

- Iron supplements**: Replenish iron reserves with oral supplements such as Hemo complex bionutrics or Hemo nutrics, or Iron bisglycinate from copmed.

- B vitamins**: Restore B12 and folate levels through a balanced diet or supplements.

- Anti-inflammatory care**: Treat underlying inflammation to optimize iron metabolism.

 

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**Last thoughts** :

Iron plays a vital role far beyond the production of red blood cells. Understanding the impact of **hepcidin**, **iron** and **B-vitamins** on overall health is essential to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

**Take care of your health, monitor your iron levels and stay informed!

HEMO-COMPLEX Bionutrics

 

High iron content per tablet: 40 mg

Well-absorbed form of iron: iron bisglycinate

Iron-enhancing co-factors: B vitamins and intrinsic factor

Good gastrointestinal tolerance

BNutrics Bionutrics

 

Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 and biotin support energy levels

Broad spectrum: 8 B vitamins and 3 B vitamin-related substances (choline, inositol and APAB)

In active, well-absorbed forms: directly available for use. The body no longer needs to transform them.

High dosage of vitamin B12 per tablet: 500 μg