9. Heightened Anxiety
According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, over 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety. This mental health issue requires assessment by a clinical psychologist and medication to manage the effects of the disorder.
Treatment of anxiety may also include non-pharmacological strategies such as yoga, meditation, dietary supplementation, and counseling. An iron deficiency can heighten feelings of stress and anxiety due to an elevation in heart rate as a result of the body’s attempt to push more blood into muscles and organs to satisfy the need for hemoglobin.
This elevated heart rate translates into a biofeedback loop. The nervous system ramps up feelings of edginess and anxiety which in turn causes the heart to beat faster. If left untreated, this symptom of iron deficiency can create severe cardiovascular complications that result in the development of other chronic diseases such as hypertension.
Individuals experiencing high anxiety should visit their physician for a blood and hormone panel to determine the state of their health and any nutrient deficiencies that could exasperate their condition.