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Causes of Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency can be the result of numerous and multiple causes. These fall into two broad categories: an increased need for iron and a decreased intake or absorption of iron.
(1) Increased Demand for Iron
The increased demand for iron can occur with certain conditions including:
-blood loss from heavy menstruation
pregnancy
-frequent or excessive blood donation
-fibroids
-digestive tract disease (including infections)
-surgeries
-accidents/injuries
Iron deficiency can also be caused by:
-certain medications
-some dietary supplements or substances that cause bleeding such as pain relievers with aspirin
a result of poisoning from lead, toxic chemicals or alcohol abuse
(2) Decreased Intake or Absorption of Iron
Decreased intake or absorption can occur in diets that do not include heme iron, the iron found in meat and shellfish. Heme iron is absorbed more efficiently than non-heme iron found in plants and dietary supplements.
Diseases and medical conditions can also limit iron absorption; this can happen as a result of insufficient stomach acid, lack of intrinsic factor (hormone needed to absorb vitamin B12), celiac disease, inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease, and in autoimmune diseases and hormone imbalances.