What causes iron deficiency anemia?
- Inadequate Dietary Iron Intake: A diet consistently low in iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy greens, can result in be insufficient iron intake.
- Poor Iron Absorption: Certain medical conditions or surgeries affecting the gastrointestinal tract, like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or gastric bypass surgery, can interfere with the absorption of iron from the diet.
- Blood Loss: Any condition that leads to chronic blood loss can result in iron deficiency anemia. This includes heavy menstrual periods in women, gastrointestinal bleeding due to ulcers or colorectal conditions, and frequent blood donation.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The demands for iron increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and if dietary intake isn't adequate to meet these demands, it can lead to anemia.
- Growth Spurts in Infants and Adolescents: Rapid growth during these life stages can increase the body's demand for iron, leading to potential deficiencies if not met through diet.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, like proton pump inhibitors and antacids, can reduce the absorption of iron in the stomach.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic conditions like chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, and cancer can disrupt the body ability to regulate iron levels and may contribute to anemia.
- Hookworm Infection: In areas where hookworm infections are prevalent, these parasites can cause chronic intestinal blood loss, leading to iron deficiency.
- Dietary Factors: Consuming substances that inhibit iron absorption, such as excessive tea or coffee, can contribute to iron deficiency anemia.
- Inadequate Iron Storage: Rare genetic conditions like hereditary hemochromatosis, which causes excessive iron storage in the body, can eventually lead to iron-deficiency-like symptoms.
