Root causes of low iron - for when you’ve tried iron supplements and it hasn’t helped!

So you’ve tried the iron supplements, you’ve upped your leafy greens and maybe you’ve even added a steak or two into your weekly meals. Yet, despite your best efforts, your iron levels aren’t increasing and you’re still feeling tired, sluggish, and stuck in a cycle of low energy.

The truth is, unless you uncover why your iron levels are low, you won't be addressing the root problem to your fatigue.

Let’s explore 3 common reasons why iron deficiency can persist, despite taking iron supplements:

1. Poor absorption in the gut

Even if you’re eating or supplementing enough iron, your body might not be absorbing it properly. This is often due to:

• Gut infections or imbalances, like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) or parasites.

• Damage to the gut lining, as seen with leaky gut or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

• Coeliac disease, which affects your small intestine's ability to absorb nutrients.

  
  

2. Blood loss

Even small amounts of chronic blood loss can drain your iron stores. Common sources include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (e.g from hormone imbalances, endometriosis and uterine fibroids).

• Internal bleeding (e.g from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), stomach ulcers, or even long-term NSAID medication use).

  
  

3. Chronic Inflammation

Chronic illness or inflammation can prevent your body from effectively using the iron you consume. Conditions like autoimmune diseases, IBD, or even unmanaged stress can lead to a functional iron deficiency, where iron is present but unavailable to your cells.

Why Supplements Alone Aren’t Enough

Iron supplements can be a helpful tool, but they don’t solve the deeper issues behind iron deficiency. Worse, they can sometimes irritate the gut or contribute to digestive problems if taken long-term.

Ready to Break Free from Fatigue?

Here at Wellness Within we specialise in identifying the root cause of your low Iron, through functional testing and thorough clinical case taking. From here, we will present you with a personalised plan to address your low iron levels and get you your energy back for good!

Book a consultation or download our free Gut Health Guide to start your journey today.