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Are You Iron Deficient?
If you are or have been a patient in my office and presented with symptoms of fatigue, dizziness, brain fog, depression, muscle weakness or shortness of breath, you have no doubt seen me order, among other tests, a blood test for ferritin. Ferritin is the storage form of iron, and the most sensitive test to screen for iron deficency.
In a recent issue, the New York Times cast a spotlight on iron deficiency. One article discusses the prevalence and causes of the condition. Up to one third of women under 50 are iron deficient, defined as having a ferritin below 30 and hemoglobin under 13.
Another article discusses testing and treatment for iron deficiency. If you or someone you know has any of the symptoms I mentioned above, please make sure iron deficiency is ruled out as a cause. Iron deficiency anemia is often the only thing tested for and is a higher diagnostic hurdle than iron deficiency, and usually presents with more significant symptoms, though symptoms in both conditions can be quite similar. A woman of reproductive age, especially with periods lasting seven days or longer or being very heavy, eating a low red meat or vegan/vegetarian diet, pregnant or nursing is at higher risk for iron deficiency. Poor intestinal absorption, found in celiac disease or severe leaky gut syndrome, can increase the risk for iron deficiency. Drinking a lot of tea, which can bind to iron and prevent absorption, can be a contributor. I encourage you to read one or both articles!
Living in The Blue Zone (Wherever You Are)
Dan Buettner, a competitive cyclist with a great interest in health, has teamed up with National Geographic to investigate why people in certain places live into their 100s, while the life expectancy of the average American is about 78 years. Buettner and his colleagues have identified five places in the world with the highest rates of longevity and nine qualities that these places have in common. You can follow the link to read more; a shorthand version (my take) is that people in these places (all of which are warm-weather locations) eat healthy, with a heavy plant component, exercise, limit portions, have strong connections and sense of community, a sense of purpose and know when to relax and let go.
While I can't pretend Connecticut is Costa Rica (or Greece, or Okinawa, or even Loma Linda California), I can prioritize as many of these choices in my life as is possible day to day. I like Buettner's passion for health and happiness and how he has helped remind all of us what is healthy and life-promoting.
Referrals
Thank you to all those who have referred friends, family or co-workers. You have given me the highest compliment.
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Until next time, be well!
Dr. Goodman
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